The resort community of Whistler is located at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains surrounded by a group of small lakes that reflect the mountains above. The enchanting scenery accompanied by the refreshingly clean mountain air is just part of what makes Whistler so special. Just over 25 years ago, this world-renowned vacation destination was a quaint outdoor recreation centre that few people knew about. It now has a population of approximately 10,000 permanent residents and more than 2 million visitors a year. The Whistler Village is the heart of the community and was built specifically to highlight the landscapes and to obtain maximum sun exposure. Tidy cobblestone streets lead the way to trendy shopping, delectable dining and chic bars. Whistler’s world class, award-winning status is the reason it will also play host to the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. The whole world is about to fall in love with this Canadian gem.

Being North America’s top ski destination, it is no wonder Whistler is teeming with tourists all winter long. Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort has a peak elevation in excess of 7,400 feet and covers approximately 7,000 acres of ski and snowboard terrain with over 200 marked trails, 12 alpine bowls, 3 glaciers and 33 lifts. It will take more than one vacation to explore all of the resort’s runs. For the truly fearless, Whistler Blackcomb also offers heli-skiing. Ride a helicopter to the top of majestic glaciers or subalpine open tree runs and begin your adventurous journey to the bottom. Some of these runs average almost an hour to get down. If you’re not feeling that adventurous, Whistler has plenty of other activities to fill your snowy winter vacation. There are a number of cross country ski trails located in the area as well as opportunities for snowshoeing, sleigh rides, snowmobiling, ice skating or even dogsledding, all of which are true Canadian experiences. After a long day in the cold, why not indulge in soothing treatment at one of Whistler’s many spas. Nothing feels better than a warm, relaxing massage at the Avello Spa at the Westin Resort or Vital Spirit Spa. Winter is a beautiful time to visit Whistler.

However, Whistler is not just a winter resort. It is a true all season vacation destination. Believe it or not, Whistler even offers summer skiing and snowboarding on the highest mountains. The region is full of summer outdoor activities like mountain biking, golf, fishing, mountain climbing, canoeing and more. Whistler has recently been named among the best golf destinations in the world and courses such as Chateau Whistler Golf and Country Club and Nicklaus North Golf Club have attracted some of the game’s biggest names. Whistler also hosts a number of lively festivals throughout the year. Whistler’s Celebration of Aboriginal Culture is an annual event held every August with art, traditional foods, stories, dance and more. One of Whistler’s most popular festivals is the annual Oktoberfest celebration in October complete with beer, bratwurst and polka music. You will never run out of new things to do here. Whistler is a place that will steal your heart the minute you arrive. Canadian Dollars Standard Canadian, 110v 60Hz. GMT-8 (GMT-7 from second Sunday in March to first Sunday in November).
Whistler is in the Pacific Time Zone, with the same time as Vancouver. It is one hour behind Calgary and three hours behind Toronto and Montréal.