Whistler is the ultimate skiing playground - score two massive mountains, a mile of vertical descent, 8,000 acres of stunning terrain, huge snow, an Olympic pedigree, a long season and a village with a vibe to rival anything on the planet.
One of the leading tour operators to Whistler is tailor-made ski specialists Ski Independence, one of the UK’s leading independent ski tour operators. Part of a family-owned and run travel firm established more than 50 years ago, it offers a broad range of bespoke ski holiday options.
And Whistler has been a key destination for them for many years. As product manager Nick Laver says: ‘I’ve skied over 100 resorts worldwide and nothing else comes close to Whistler Blackcomb.’
And when it comes to finding a place to stay, Whistler boasts some of the best and coolest lodgings around, from budget to peerless luxury.
Here are six of the best and you can view them all on the Ski Independence website.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler
The 5-star Fairmont is everything a luxury ski hotel should be. Occupying a perfect slope-side position, at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, it offers superb accommodation and fantastic facilities, including an extensive Health Club and the relaxing Vida Spa. It’s only a few minutes’ walk from Whistler Village - or you can take the free shuttle from right outside the door. Highlights of a stay here include breakfast at The Wildflower restaurant, an après-ski drink at The Mallard Lounge and fine dining at The Grill Room, after unwinding, of course, at the superb indoor/outdoor pool or relaxing in one of the three outdoor hot tubs.
Price: from £1,372 per person for 7 nights, including accommodation, flights with Air Canada from London Heathrow to Vancouver and shared transfers.
Four Seasons Resort Whistler & Residences
Five-star luxury in a calm and relaxed environment. The superb facilities here include a stunning spa, indoor & outdoor swimming pools and hot tubs as well as the fantastic Sidecut restaurant, which serves up incredible steaks and is perfect for some relaxed après after an energetic day on the mountain. Located on Blackcomb Mountain, the Four Seasons hotel is a short 5 minute walk from the base of the Blackcomb ski area, where guests will find their exclusive Ski Concierge service. Upon arrival, guests are met with warm, dry equipment, which has been stored securely overnight. The only decision then is which mountain to ski and if the decision is Whistler, the shuttle will take guests on their way!
Price: from £1,403, per person for 7 nights, , including accommodation, flights with Air Canada from London Heathrow to Vancouver and shared transfers.
Westin Whistler Resort & Spa
The Westin is a fabulous luxury spa hotel located in the heart of Whistler Village, close to Whistler's shops, restaurants, galleries, boutiques and après-ski activity, and very handily placed for access to both the Whistler and Blackcomb gondolas. All suites feature gas-burning fireplaces, and the spa offers a complete menu of treatments, services, activities and classes.
The Westin has two restaurants to choose from. The Grill & Vine offers a modern twist on classic grilled food, while the FireRock Lounge has a selection of sharing plates and local favourites.
Price: from £1,220, per person for 7 nights, , including accommodation, flights with Air Canada from London Heathrow to Vancouver and shared transfers.
Delta Whistler Village Suites
Extensively renovated in 2014, the very popular Delta Whistler Village Suites provide high quality studios and suites in the centre of Whistler Village North and is a definite Whistler favourite place to stay. The property is located just 8-10 minutes’ walk from the Whistler and Blackcomb gondolas and is also near the shops, bars and restaurants of Whistler Village. You get a wide choice of facilities including an indoor/outdoor pool, hot tubs, sauna, steam rooms, work-out facility and choice of dining.
Price: from £1,179, per person for 7 nights, , including accommodation, flights with Air Canada from London Heathrow to Vancouver and shared transfers.
Crystal Lodge
For location, value for money and high standard of accommodation, the Crystal Lodge is amazing and many guests return year after year. Plumb in the centre of Whistler Village it’s perfect for access to the Whistler and Blackcomb gondolas, and right in the heart of the off-slope action. Enjoy a swim and a soak in the outdoor pool and hot tub, or swap tales from the day's adventures in the lively lounge bar. There is also a choice of six restaurants and lounges on site, so you needn't go far for a bite to eat.
Price: from £1,099 per person for 7 nights, including accommodation, flights with Air Canada from London Heathrow to Vancouver and shared transfers.
Pan Pacific Village Centre
Superb boutique hotel offering luxurious and elegant suites in the centre of Whistler Village, with access to a wide range of facilities. Guests get a complimentary breakfast in their own exclusive breakfast room, which transforms into a residents-only après-ski bar later in the day. Guests can also swim in the 25m lap pool or soak in the hot tubs. Spa treatments are also available to ease any aching muscles! The combination of price, location and facilities is spot on, and the quality of the accommodation on offer is unbeatable.
Price: from £1,193 per person for 7 nights, , including accommodation, flights with Air Canada from London Heathrow to Vancouver and shared transfers.
Take the trip
For more information on the above hotels and to book your Whistler and Vancouver ski holiday, call Ski Independence for a tailor-made quotation on 0131 243 8097 or visit ski-i.com
Book by 31 August for massive early booking savings of up to 50%. And you can still get significant savings if you book by 15 November.
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