Comprising of 3 neighbouring hubs of accommodation and services: the original Whistler Village, with a lively pedestrianised centre and genuine ski-in ski-out convenience for many of its properties, lies directly at the foot of Whistler Mountain; Upper Village‚ slightly above and to the E of Whistler Village ‚ is similarly well placed on Blackcomb Mountain; Village North's development continues to the N of Whistler Village and visitors staying here have a choice of paths or a short bus ride to the main lifts and shops. Whistler has established itself as one of N America's premier mountain resorts, favoured just as much in summer as winter thanks to a temperate coastal climate and diverse attractions; when copious quantities of snow do fall, visitors generally don't have to endure the severe subzero temperatures experienced in other areas.

Introduction

It comprises 3 neighbouring hubs of accommodation and services: the original Whistler Village, with a lively pedestrianised centre and genuine ski-in ski-out convenience for many of its properties, lies directly at the foot of Whistler Mountain; Upper Village ‚slightly above and to the E of Whistler Village ‚ is similarly well placed on Blackcomb Mountain; Village North's development continues to the N of Whistler Village and visitors staying here have a choice of paths or a short bus ride to the main lifts and shops. Whistler has established itself as one of N America's premier mountain resorts, favoured just as much in summer as winter thanks to a temperate coastal climate and diverse attractions; when copious quantities of snow do fall, visitors generally don't have to endure the severe subzero temperatures experienced in other areas.

Public Transport

Much accommodation is within walking distance of the ski-lifts, shops and restaurants. A shuttle bus circulates between Whistler Village, Upper Village, Village North and Whistler Creekside. Daily bus services to Vancouver and the airport. Taxis are easily available from most properties on request.

Public Transport

Public Transport: In the SW corner of Canada, in the province of British Columbia, in the heart of the rugged Coast Mountains. 80 mls N of British Columbia's major city, Vancouver; 92 mls N of its international airport.

Position: In a heavily forested valley with several small lakes, at the foot of the Blackcomb and Whistler Mountains. Reached via Sea-to-Sky Highway (Hwy 99) that winds N from Vancouver and the Pacific coast.

• Dialling Code: 604
• Website: www.tourismwhistler.com

Serving Airports

• Vancouver International (YVR)
  • Flight time from the UK: 9 hrs. 30 mins

Market/Suitability

Predominantly middle to upmarket skiers, snowboarders and off-piste specialists from Canada (particularly Vancouver) and USA, although increasing numbers of Europeans are now discovering it. In summer, it is popular with more mature Canadians for golf, hiking and fishing as well as the convention market. Prices tend to be above the national average.

Skiing

Ski Lift/Ski School: A choice of fast, efficient gondolas and chair-lifts from the 2 principal hubs of Whistler and Upper Villages. An additional lift serves Whistler Mountain at Whistler Creekside, about 1 ml down the valley. The Whistler Village Gondola, only yards from the bustling pedestrianised centre, provides swift access onto Whistler Mountain while the Fitzsimmons Express chair-lift takes beginners to the lower slopes. The Excalibur Gondola ascends E-wards onto Blackcomb, where access is supplemented by chair-lifts in Upper Village's base area. A ski-school ‚with 500 instructors ‚meets at the base stations for group or individual training. Ski-passes cover both mountains.

Altitude/Snow Quality: Village: 2,214 ft. Highest lifts: Whistler Mountain 7,160 ft; Blackcomb Mountain 7,494 ft. Despite the resort's modest elevation, abundant coastal precipitation combined with high, predominantly N-facing slopes ensure it has one of N America's longest seasons (Nov to May), with Blackcomb Mountain's Horstman Glacier capable of supporting genuine summer skiing until late Aug! While each mountain provides over 100 well-maintained tree-lined runs, Blackcomb offers more demanding descents for the accomplished single- or twin-plank brigade. More than half the area is suitable for intermediate skiers, with the balance tipped slightly in favour of the expert. Being able to ski right back down to the village centres, base stations and much accommodation is particularly attractive – and not found elsewhere in W Canada.

Shopping

Concentrated in the pedestrianised zones of Whistler Village and Village North and largely aimed at the sporty ‚skiing, hiking etc ‚with several small supermarkets supplying the large numbers of self caterers. Favourite buys include local Native Indian art, expensive designer gear, jewellery and Western (cowboy-style) clothing.

Entertainment

Daytime: in winter, skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snow-shoeing, dog-sledding, sleigh rides; snowmobiles and heli-skiing are expensive but exhilarating alternatives; local museum exhibits regional history, ski-related memorabilia and local flora and fauna; indoor ice rink at Meadow Park Sports Centre. In summer, golf (with a choice of three 18-hole courses); boating and fishing on nearby lakes and rivers; hiking and rock climbing; extensive mountain-bike trails.

Nightlife: most vibrant in winter, particularly around Whistler Village's pedestrianised zone with its myriad bars, restaurants and clubs ‚energetic 18 to 30s should find enough apres-ski to keep them occupied until the early hours; cinema.

Eating Out

Plenty of choice to suit most pockets. Continental bistros, Italian, Chinese, Thai, Mexican and fast food. Casual cafes and snack bars around both main lift-stations. A number of mountain eateries.

Accommodation

A few full-service hotels, the most prestigious being the aptly named Chateau in Upper Village. The vast majority are privately owned condominiums, lodges or studios leased to management groups. Most provide well-equipped kitchens, fireplaces and a choice of room configurations that will suit self-catering families and small groups; some provide on-site bars and restaurants (usually separately owned or run). Most properties have pools and gyms; many offer spa facilities.

Local Excursions

Half day: scenic summer drives into the mountains. Full day: Vancouver's big city sophistication and picturesque coastline, within easy reach by bus or car.

Interested?

For more information on this ski resort, call us today on (028) 3832 3618, arrange a callback or email us.

Alternatively, if you would prefer we are very happy to see you in person at our new Travel Lounge, Lurgan. Visitors are advised to make an appointment with one of our specialist consultants.

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