Five-Day Getaway to Whistler

Whistler Blackcomb is a revered destination for skiers and snowboarders for good reason. With more than 8,000 acres of terrain and over 200 marked runs, it’s arguable in a class by itself. And many of the attributes that draw visitors from around the world in the winter make Whistler a year-round playground that has to be experienced to be believed.

The possibilities for outdoor adventure are almost limitless, the local mountain culture is warm and welcoming, and the dining options alone will make you want to extend your stay.

Here are some suggestions to get you started.

Peak 2 Peak Gondola | Tourism Whistler/Guy Fattal

Day 1: Whistler Village

Although Whistler is less than two hours from Vancouver, it feels like a world away. Head north on the Sea-to-Sky Highway—one of the most scenic drives on the planet—and allow time to stop at viewpoints along the way.

Upon arrival in Whistler Village, check into your acommodation and ditch the car. From the moment you leave your hotel, soak up the ambience of the pedestrian-only mountain village and enjoy the quintessential feel-good energy that Whistler exudes.

Access the alpine within minutes on the Whistler Gondola or Blackcomb Gondola, both of which give you access to PEAK 2 PEAK, the record-breaking gondola connecting Blackcomb and Whistler mountains and more than 50km (30 mi) of hiking and interpretive walking trails.

While you’re in the alpine, Cloudraker Skybridge and Raven’s Eye viewing platform are a must, affording 360-degree views from the peak of Whistler Mountain. Visit the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games displays inside Roundhouse Lodge, and consider making a reservation for on-mountain dining.

Down in the village, allow for serendipity—a patio that catches your eye, a menu that grabs your attention, or a boutique that beckons. You’ll want an early evening though, because tomorrow’s an active day.

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Whistler Mountain Bike Park, Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane | Black bear, Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane | River Rafting, The Adventure Group

High Note Trail |Tourism Whistler/Mark Mackay

Day 2: Adventure

Wake up early and get a quick bite to fuel up for today’s activities. For quality coffee and decadent treats, purebread, Moguls Coffee House, and Portobello are favourite grab-and-go options. Next, it’s time to choose your own adventure.

If you’re stoked for downhill adrenaline, spend the day at Whistler Mountain Bike Park, among the most famous bike parks in the world. Always be realistic about your skills and equipment, and don’t hurl yourself down the trails without the proper gear. Rent a full-suspension bike and the latest safety equipment from local bike shops, and take a lesson (or two) to refresh your skills and learn valuable tips from the pros.

Connect with the mountains in a different way by riding the meltwater on the nearby Green, Elaho, Cheakamus or Squamish rivers. Whistler’s whitewater rafting tours offer gentle or thrilling experiences on the rapids, depending on your preference for adventure.

If canoeing or kayaking is more your speed, consider paddling around Alta Lake with Whistler Eco Tours.

To embrace your inner David Attenborough, head into the backcountry on a professionally guided photo safari to view black bears and other Coast Mountain wildlife in their natural habitat. Be sure to bring your camera. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of Whistler’s native flora and fauna, too.

Finally, cap off your adventure with Whistler’s renowned après scene. Try Braidwood Tavern for their “One of Everything” flight that includes every beer on tap, or Dusty’s Bar & BBQ for their legendary Caesars. Or follow the Sea to Sky Ale Trail to visit craft beer destinations in four distinct communities.

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Vallea Lumina display, Moment Factory/Vallea Lumina | Alta Bistro, @viranlly | Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, Blake Jorgenson

Audain Art Museum | Hubert Kang

Day 3: Culture

After yesterday’s adventures, ease into the day with a full sit-down breakfast. Consider Caramba or The Wildflower, both of whom excel in gourmet breakfasts. Then get ready to nourish your brain and experience a more cerebral side of mountain life.

Whistler’s resort culture may only go back a hundred years, but the Indigenous cultures of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations have been connected to these mountains since time immemorial. Deepen your understanding of the local Indigenous Peoples at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, where these two nations work together to immerse guests in their respective cultures via interpretive displays, art exhibits, and guided tours. Come with an open mind and heart, and be prepared for a shift in perspective.

Expand your appreciation of British Columbia art at the Audain Art Museum, one of the most exquisite architectural experiences in the province and an absolute must for art lovers. The Permanent Collection houses artworks by the province’s most celebrated artists, from renowned contemporary artists such as Lawrence Paul Yuxweluptun, Brian Jungen, and Jeff Wall, to classics by famed BC artists E.J. Hughes, Emily Carr, and Jack Shadbolt. You will not want to rush your visit.

Extend your art crawl further by taking a self-guided tour of Whistler’s creative spaces. Pick up an Arts Whistler Culture Map to uncover independent studios and galleries, and get up close with Whistler’s thriving arts scene.

In the evening, enjoy the immense variety of Whistler’s cuisine. (Tip: You’ll want to plan ahead and book a reservation in advance.) If you’re craving Mediterranean cuisine, consider Il Caminetto for fresh, contemporary Italian, or Indian Masala Bistro for a flavourful curry. If Mexican’s more your scene, try The Mexican Corner for queso fundido, tacos, or enchiladas. If you’re in the mood for Japanese, Sushi Village is a Whistler staple with an extensive list of sashimi, nigiri, and innovative house rolls.

After dinner, take in Vallea Lumina, a unique attraction that only happens at dusk. This multimedia storytelling experience takes you on an illuminated journey through Whistler’s Cougar Mountain that will leave you feeling enchanted.

Aerial Obstacle Course | The Adventure Group

Day 4: Adventure Deeper

Today is all about trying something new. Did you know that Whistler is home to the longest zipline in Canada and the US? Start your day soaring over creeks and old-growth trees on a guided zipline tour with Ziptrek Ecotours or Superfly Ziplines. You don’t need experience—guides supervise your entire journey and ensure your safety while teaching you about Whistler’s ecology along the way.

Craving a physical challenge? Consider a day at an Aerial Obstacle Course where suspended planks, swinging logs, and tightropes await. If you’re a complete newbie to manoeuvring on these types of contraptions, sign up for the beginner course for a gentle introduction.

Trying something new doesn’t have to be daring. You could spend the day golfing at a new (to you) course. Whistler is home to four championship golf courses, each with its own unique character. Finish up on the club’s patio as a reward for a successful day.

If you want to take it up a notch, and you don’t mind getting a little dirty, take a side x side UTV tour to see Whistler’s mountainous terrain in a whole new way. No experience is needed to drive these two-passenger utility-terrain vehicles, only a valid driver’s licence and a sense of adventure.

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Nicklaus North Golf Course, Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova | Superfly Ziplines, Whistler, @alexconnorr via Instagram | Flight from Whistler, Harbour Air Seaplanes

Scandinave Spa/Justa Jeskova

Day 5: Chill

On your final day in Whistler, it’s all about slowing down and being present in the moment. Treat yourself to a relaxing breakfast on the patio at The Den, where you can enjoy locally farmed and foraged fare overlooking the tranquil setting of Nita Lake.

Step aboard a float plane or helicopter to see Whistler’s mountains, glaciers, lakes, and valleys from a bird’s-eye view. Harbour Air and Blackcomb Helicopters offer flightseeing tours that include unique options like a glacial lake landing or a volcano and ice cave tour.

If you’d rather keep your feet on the ground, spend a blissful afternoon at Scandinave Spa, a silent, open-air Nordic spa beneath the fragrant groves of Douglas fir. Lose all track of time as you alternate between the hot pools, cold plunge pools, cedar saunas, eucalyptus steam rooms, hammocks, and waterfalls. Go one step further and book yourself a massage with their certified massage therapists. (Tip: Reserve your massage as early as possible as they often book up weeks in advance.)

For the grand finale, spoil yourself with a multi-course wine-pairing dinner at one of Whistler’s renowned fine dining restaurants. Consider Alta Bistro, Araxi, Rimrock Café or Bearfoot Bistro for innovative, locally sourced, seasonal menus. Unwind and let the servers take good care of you as you reflect on the past five days. You may find yourself dreaming about your next Whistler adventure.

Originally published in February, 2021.