Ski Destinations: Whistler, Canada
The mountain, the village, shops, restaurants & more!
If you are planning a trip to Vancouver, Canada during the winter (or summertime!) you cannot skip a side trip to Whistler Blackcomb. It’s arguably North America’s best ski resort with unbeatable terrain, breathtaking views from the alpine, and a very cute village at the base.
One of the best perks of growing up in Vancouver was being able to learn how to ski on this fabulous mountain. It’s only a 1.5 hour drive from the city centre and has the MOST insane view of the mountains and ocean as you drive along the Sea to Sky Highway (pictured below).
*Pro tip if you are taking the bus for transportation: To ensure the best views of the landscape, make sure to sit on the left-hand side when going from Vancouver to Whistler and, conversely, on right-hand side when going from Whistler to Vancouver.
About the Mountain
Whistler Blackcomb ski resort is the combination of two formerly competing ski mountains: Whistler Mountain & Blackcomb Mountain (as you surely may have already guessed). Both are incredible and have a lot to offer to both newcomers and regulars — in terms of runs, food spots & beautifully scenic views.
My advice: be sure to take the Peak to Peak gondola to experience the best of both Whistler and Blackcomb (and if you’re lucky, you can get on the “glass bottom” gondola and see through to the depths of the valley between the two mountains!!).
⛷️ My Picks for Best Runs:
UPPER WHISKEY JACK - green circle (easiest) (a nice wide run that ends at Chic Pea - a good option for lunch!)
PEAK TO CREEK - blue square (intermediate) (**it’s the longest run at any ski resort in North America)
ARTHUR’S CHOICE - black diamond (difficult) (on powdery days this is an awesome run through the trees, one of the best parts of West Coast skiing!)
PICCOLO FACE - double black diamond (for experts only) (a great steep mogul run next to Symphony chair where everyone can watch you tumble down the slope — yes that was me you may have watched in horror a few years ago…)
🍽️ Whistler Mountain Food Spots:
Roundhouse for a classic lunch on the hill
Whistler Village for a hot dog, sausage or fries at Zog’s
Chic Pea for yummy cinnamon buns
Umbrella Bar for a drink and spectacular 360° views at the top of Whistler
🍽️ Blackcomb Mountain Food Spots:
Rendezvous Lodge for a classic lunch on the hill
Christine’s for fine-dining
Crystal Hut for waffles & hot chocolate
About the Village
🍻 Après Ski Spots:
Longhorn’s for the typical après experience with a DJ, waitresses with sparklers, fire tables, and outdoor TVs
Black’s Pub for a great view of the mountain while sitting outside
Dubb Linn Gate Irish Pub for a pub atmosphere with a lively crowd
Dusty’s in Creekside Village (*don’t skip the nachos with brisket if you are with a group, they are extremely delicious — but warning: the size is EXTRA large)
🍝 Dinner Restaurants:
Bar Oso for Spanish tapas
Il Caminetto for a nice Italian meal
Araxi Restaurant & Oyster Bar for fine-dining
🛍️ Village Shops - Canadian brands:
Lululemon for everything activewear
Roots for classic Canadian cozy loungewear
Aritzia for cute outfits/everyday wear
🛍️ Village Shops - Best ski/snowboard shops:
*Hot tip: these are just a few suggestions to get you started, but you really can’t go wrong with any ski/snow shop up there! And, trust me, there are TONS to choose from
🥐 *My Fav Random Village Spots:
Purebread for a great coffee shop (they even have a few gluten free bakery options)
Rocky Mountain Chocolate for delicious maple fudge!
COWS for ice cream (yes, even in the wintertime)
And finally, Scandinave Spa to end your trip to Whistler by treating yourself with some rest & relaxation ◡̈
I hope you enjoy Whistler as much as I do every time I get the chance to ski there. It doesn’t matter how many seasons I visit, I still love it just the same at 27 years old as I did as a little 3 year old in ski school slowly making my way down the bunny hill.
If there are any other Whistler Blackcomb spots you are curious to know more about, let me know in the comments!
xo chat soon
On the list to visit 📝!! 🤩
Whistler is awesome! 👍👍