For many British Columbians, who have grown up with absolutely breathtaking nature and scenery all of our lives, we often take for granted the natural splendour in our own backyards. This is the case for Whistler, a world-class resort and host of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, which many of us have visited and enjoyed immensely from fall and winter to spring and summer. However, as the rest of the world realizes, it’s time for us to truly appreciate the jewel that is Whistler – a world-class destination year-round.
Since I was a child, I have had the good fortune to travel to Whistler with family and friends on a yearly basis, and no matter what time of year I head up to this gorgeous part of our province, there is so much to do. As I recently travelled to Whistler, which is a two-hour drive north of Vancouver, I am going to focus on the fall/winter season.
Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts will indulge in the remarkable ski runs on Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. Whistler boasts 4,757 acres of skiable terrain and two parks, while Blackcomb has 3,414 acres and offers three parks, one super pipe and one snow cross track.
If you’re not a skier or snowboarder, as I am, don’t worry as Whistler is home to spectacular spas, gourmet restaurants, low-key pubs/bars often featuring local entertainment and for the dancers, there is a lively night life with diverse clubs. There are also many activities to satisfy individuals, couples or families: opt to ride the new, world record-breaking Peak 2 Peak
Gondola, a 4.4-kilometre journey between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Families will enjoy a day spent at the Coco-Cola Tube Park or Magic Castle & Tree Fort. Those looking for a cultural experience, can visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre to learn more about the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations and experience performances, crafts and guided tours to name a few.
If you still want to indulge in the ski resort experience, look no further than cross country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating and sleigh rides. To see Whistler in a whole new way, hop in a helicopter or aboard a snowcat for guided tours or the more adventurous will participate in an ecotour and ziptrek though unparalleled terrain.
Whistler has built a reputation for having some of the best restaurants in North America. Visitors can choose from an eclectic range of gourmet cuisine from Italian and Japanese to West Coast seafood and fusion of different regions. Visit one of the amazing restaurants, attend a winemaker’s dinner or attend the annual Cornucopia festival.
CORNUCOPIA
Heralding its 16th year, this renowned wine and food festival has grown in notoriety around the world drawing in locals and tourists alike. I was invited to experience the one-of-a-kind Cornucopia festival and attend some of the sought-after events during this epicurean extravaganza celebrating all things wine, spirits and cuisine.
Running in early November, foodies and wine enthusiasts can indulge their palates in gourmet canapés, prepared by culinary geniuses, and award-winning British Columbia and international wines. In addition, Cornucopia attendees have the opportunity to attend seminars, competitions and VIKING Stage Series featuring local/regional restaurants, chefs, producers, breweries, distilleries and wineries.
Noteworthy events included House Party – Best of BC showcasing local gourmet cuisine and domestic wines/micro-brewed beers; Best of the Vinos – the ‘world’s first wine-based film festival;’ CRUSH Gala Grand Tasting, the flagship tasting event that takes place over two nights; and new last year, Cornucopia Night Market – A Taste of Asia, an Asian-style noodle market.
My favourite events of the festival were the following:
Eau du Vie – A Spirited Affair: 5280 Bar at the Four Seasons
A dazzling event that offered attendees a posh, sultry experience featuring cocktails with an international flair from luxury spirit brands Patron Tequila and Remy Martin Cognac. Walking through 5280 Bar’s sexy spaces with a mix of low and multi-coloured lighting, the mood was fun, festive and fashionistas swayed to the eclectic DJ beats. Waiters waltzed around with appetizers including a scrumptious duck canapé.
Quattro at Whistler – White Alba Truffle Mushroom Lunch
This divine Italian restaurant flew in $7,000 worth of White Alba Truffle Mushrooms and served a Piedmont 3-course luncheon prepared by Executive Chef Jeremie Trottier. Attendees had the rare chance of indulging in one of the world’s most acclaimed culinary delicacies known as the “diamond of the kitchen.”
Araxi Bubbles + Oceans
Known as the hottest party in Whistler, the lineup around the restaurant and down the block proved Araxi was the place to be. Featuring decadent champagnes and sparkling wines from around the world, this event celebrated all things bubbles. And we can’t forget, the fresh, melt-in-your-mouth seafood from sushi and jumbo shrimp to freshly shucked oysters. Truly one of my favourite events, this was a champagne lover’s paradise and the Araxi partygoers were a fun, vibrant crowd to mingle with.
Cornucopia is a fantastic festival offering varied events, seminars and galas to please every discerning palate, wine aficionado, beer enthusiast and foodie. This festival left such an amazing impression on me, that I’m already anticipating its arrival next year.
SCANDINAVE SPA
Although I am a frequent traveller to Whistler, I had never visited the famous Scandinave Spa and it was an unforgettable experience that has me raving to family and friends as a definite to-do item on your Whistler checklist.
This extraordinary 20,000-square-foot outdoor spa is spread over three acres of natural land and overlooks Whistler’s incredible landscape. The focus is the Scandinavian baths, which are recognized for its therapeutic hydrotherapy qualities, such as cleansing the skin, improving physical conditioning and promoting an overall sense of well being.
As you walk out of the main building, you are greeted by various spa elements, such as a sauna, steam bath, thermal and Nordic waterfalls, hot baths, cold plunges, solariums and outdoor fireplace, where you can gather to relax and absorb the experience in silence.
This outdoor spa experience can take anywhere from 1-3 hours and there is a unique hydrotherapy process in place to achieve the full benefits. Firstly is the HOT step, where patrons heat their body in the Eucalyptus steam bath, wood burning Finnish sauna or hot baths to open pores, stimulate blood circulation and release toxins.
Next is the COLD step, where you cool your body by quickly entering the Nordic waterfall, cold plunges or shower to close the pores and strengthen the immune system. The final step is RELAX, where you can visit one of the solariums, terraces or just sit by the outdoor fireplace to allow the cardiovascular system to regulate itself and blood circulation to decrease, as per the Scandinave Spa.
I have visited many types of spas, but at Scandinave Spa, you really feel like you’re separated from the world and reconnecting with nature and all it splendour. During my visit, it began to snow and the trees, shrubs and buildings glistened with the gorgeous white powder creating such breathtaking montages that I was literally in awe of the beauty and overall experience.
CONCLUSION
No matter what season it is, Whistler is one of the most stunning, picturesque places in the world. I have visited Aspen and Vail, but they don’t compare to Whistler’s magnificent natural beauty, scope of activities year-round – it is literally nature’s playground – and it truly encompasses the authenticity of a world-class resort-town in all its dimensions.
