48 Hours in Whistler

Whistler, consistently ranked one of the top ski resorts in the world, is a great destination for a weekend escape. Whistler has tons of fun activities for outdoorsy types year-round, as well as top-notch dining. Check out some of our favourite photos from Flytographer Alanna along with our 48-hour guide to Whistler.

FRIDAY

Whether you’re driving in straight from Vancouver or hopping on a flight from elsewhere, your arrival to Whistler will likely involve the absolutely beautiful drive from Vancouver International Airport along Highway 99 into Whistler. This picturesque road is also known as the Sea to Sky Highway. The route from Vancouver to Whistler follows the shore of Howe Sound, through the Coast Mountains and into coastal rainforests.

Get settled in at Fairmont Chateau Whistler at the base of Blackcomb Mountain. In the winter, it’s the perfect place to warm up in between ski sessions. The rest of the year, you can enjoy a round of golf or a relaxing spa service at Vida Spa, which specializes in holistic treatments.

You don’t have to go far for dinner. The Wildflower at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler offers local fare showcasing Whistler’s fresh seafood. The Wildflower is perfect for families, too, with guests of the Fairmont 5 and under dining for free and kids ages 6-12 getting 50% off their meals.

SATURDAY

Rise bright and early for your pre-ski comfort food fix at Stonesedge. Nourishing, hearty bowls are available for breakfast. Be sure to try an inspired poutine for lunch; options include braised pulled venison and a veggie mushroom gravy.

Then, get suited up to spend the better part of your day skiing or snowboarding Whistler Blackcomb. Never hit fresh powder before? No problem. Whistler Blackcomb has lessons for everyone, starting with kids aged 3 and up.

Après-ski, head to Dusty’s Bar & BBQ, just at the base of the 2010 Olympic downhill runs (how cool is that?) to refuel with hearty barbecue. Then, head down to Whistler Village to finish off the evening. There are plenty of options for a nightcap or, if you’re up for it after a day of skiing, places where you can dance the night away.

SUNDAY

For a sweet breakfast treat, head to Crêpe Montagne and dig into one of their tasty offerings: jam, orange marmalade, lemon curd, nutella or fruit-filled crêpes. Savoury breakfast crêpes are on the menu, too!

Get a dose of culture and spend the day at Audain Art Museum. The museum’s permanent collection houses a comprehensive look at art from the surrounding area, including an impressive collection of Northwest Coast First Nation masks.

Book a dinner table at The GLC, Whistler Blackcomb’s lounge-style restaurant and bar, just in time to catch the Fire and Ice Show, through the beginning of April. Kids are welcome until 8 pm. Bundle up on GLC’s patio (with blankets and heat lamps, of course) and end your 48 hours in Whistler on a high note while some of Whistler’s best shredders jump through a ring of fire.