Unique Accommodations at BC Ski Resorts

Overnights at BC ski resorts don’t have to be run-of-the-mill—not when accommodation ranges from luxury ski-in/ski-out chalets to cozy cabins in the woods, and everything in between.

The winterized yurts at Riverside Resort in Whistler |@michelle.lao via Instagram

In Whistler, skiers and boarders get right to it at the First Tracks Lodge. Standing tall at the base of Whistler Mountain, it features designer suites, a heated pool, hot tubs, a lobby library, and, of course, first tracks, courtesy of the Creekside Express Gondola. Or go beyond the slopes and stay at the Riverside Resort, set on 16 hectares (40 acres) of prime Whistler real estate further north. Here, options abound: comfy log cabins, RV hookups, and overnights in winterized yurts—think camping, minus the work.

In Sun Peaks, live like royalty on the Summit Club Floor at the Grand. Open seasonally, the exclusive floor has rooms with all the amenities, plus access to a private lounge. To embrace your natural surroundings, Peaks Bed and Breakfast is just 10 minutes down the road in the village of Whitecroft. Here, bedrooms are bright and airy, and breakfasts feature local treats. There’s even a forested waterfall, partially frozen in winter, 20 minutes from the B&B.

Ski a different path, and opt for the Explorer Cabins at Sundance Resort. These charming slopeside retreats offer gourmet kitchens, private hot tubs, and sky-high stone fireplaces. Cue the hot chocolate.

Out of the box is second nature at SilverStar Mountain Resort near Vernon. True to its name, the Purple Palace is an on-slope, purple-hued home, a quick glide from the Alpine Meadows chairlift. Here, five bedrooms can be booked separately or house a whole group. Either way, everyone will scramble for the rooftop hot tub.

For more variety, head to Apex Mountain Resort, near Penticton, to one of the properties with Stay at Apex. Choose from cabins and condos that sleep anywhere between 2 to 16 guests with full kitchens, private hot tubs, and panoramic views of the slopes.

The rustic A-Frame Cabin in the Village at Red Mountain | Leah Poulton

Think of snowy slopes, and cozy cabins spring to mind. Compact and cute, the rustic A-Frame Cabin in the Village at Red Mountain is just the ticket to shake off the winter chill. A kitchenette, three bedrooms, and friendly close quarters make this overnight unforgettable, beneath a blanket of snow.

A deep powder day at Whitewater Ski Resort has a variety of après-ski offerings. Option one: head to the Hume Hotel & Spa in the city of Nelson, 25 minutes away. This renovated 1898 landmark exudes historic appeal. Option two: escape the crowds, and book one of four luxury mountain cabins at Logden Lodge, tucked in BC’s backwoods, just down the road from the ski resort.

For a different point of view, head to Vancouver Island. On the mountain, opt for private accommodation at one of the many chalets and accommodations that offer easy access to the ski runs and the tube park. Leave the slopes behind at day’s end, and store you gear at The Riding Fool Hostel, a favourite Island haunt in nearby Cumberland. This charming hub offers a common kitchen, games room, plus plenty of welcoming spaces to share stories from a day’s powder play at Mount Washington Alpine Resort.

Featured image: Downhill skiing at Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort. Photo: Leo Zuckerman

Updated from original publication December 6, 2016