Whistler is one of the top ski resorts in the world and it’s not hard to see why. It’s not just the skiing that is incredible, it’s the whole package.  However, I won’t get ahead of myself so let’s start with the skiing.  Whistler has two mountains (Blackcomb and Whistler) linked by the Peak to Peak Gondola.  You don’t have to have a ski pass to go on the Peak to Peak, so even if you’re not skiing, head up on a clear day for some spectacular views.  I’m not a fantastic skier but even I could tell that I was somewhere special.  The runs are extensive, the queues aren’t long and the snow is fantastic! There is so much to offer for beginners and experts alike.  I really get why everybody raves about this place.

Whistler village itself is cute and idyllic with a tonne of good restaurants and bars. Whistler Tasting Tours is a good way to experience the wining and dining scene in the village.  Our stops included Italian food and wine pairing at Quattro, delicious cheese boards at FireRock Lounge and a delightful dessert at Caramba.  To really top off your night (if you feel like a party) head on over to Buffalo Bills for some dancing.

The outdoors doesn’t only cater for skiing, there is a bunch of snowshoeing tracks around the village as well. We headed off on a track out to see the Whistler Train Wreck just outside the village.  It’s a short and easy walk to see the mysterious train wreck site with box cars covered in colourful graffiti.  It was interesting, beautiful and creepy all at the same time.

While in Whistler we visited the Scandinave Spa where we soaked in the hot pools and saunas. It is a dreamy way to end a busy visit to the mountains.

Whistler really is a paradise but beware – it is an incredibly expensive place to visit. Accommodation can be pricey but you can get better deals if you avoid peak season (January) and go in early April instead.  We stayed at the Pinnacle Hotel in early April and got a pretty sweet deal.  Ski passes are US$120 per day (but worth it I promise) and visiting the Scandinave Spa is US$55.  When you add food and drinks on top of all this it adds up pretty fast and you can easily spend US$400 (NZ$550) upwards in one weekend. Yikes!  Despite the cost – go – Whistler is a beautiful and magical place and should be on any Canadian travel bucket list.