Whistler Wonderland

British Columbia is known as a land of play for winter enthusiasts and daredevils alike. When I booked my trip to Whistler Blackcomb, I was seeking a snowboard adventure and was prepared to rough it to get my adrenaline fix for fresh powder. What I discovered, was a destination that offers equal parts adventure and luxury.

The thrills began en route with a two-hour drive up Highway 99, also known as the Sea-to-Sky Highway, comprised of soaring mountains, waterfalls, and dramatic ocean vistas. The snow line descends the further north you drive, and so too does anticipation.

The next morning, perched on the top of Blackcomb glacier and looking down at a vast bowl of untouched, new fallen snow, it was immediately clear to me what all the hype was about. The mountains at Whistler Blackcomb are world class for a reason — an overwhelming amount of terrain across two mountains, joined by the seemingly impossible engineering feat that is the Peak 2 Peak gondola. But also, the allure of this moment, and how easy it was for me to reach this extraordinary peak and perspective. Its accessible adventure, and it absolutely takes your breath away.

When it came to supporting my access to adventure, The Fairmont Chateau Whistler had basically thought of everything — not just with the perfect ski-in/ski-out location, but perks only the Fairmont could perfect. The ski valet service goes above and beyond to ensure you start your day with dry, warm boots, and at days end, you are trading in your gear for a hot chocolate. But unloading your equipment is hardly the end of a great day on the mountain. For me, the dilemma each day was which après ski option to choose: the distinguished Mallard Lounge is all roaring fire and live music, the newly renovated Portobello Market with its open kitchen and local craft beers, or the classic beverage in the hot tub. I should mention they have four hot tubs, and a bartending staff so that you don’t have to stop your soak to get a refill.

I also made sure to take a day off-mountain to explore the area on foot. Nita Lake Lodge was an ideal starting point for a lakeside trail hike. It was such a unique and beautiful spot that I promised myself I would return in summer, to see the glacier-fed lake unfrozen. The lodge’s in-house restaurant, Aura, delivered a wonderful local wine list and impeccable service, as well as featured an art installation by Rachel Denny that added a modern edge to the cozy chalet feel of the lodge.

With my appetite for adventure satiated by three days of fresh falling snow, and my muscles treated to daily hot tub “treatments,” I left Whistler with such an appreciation for the difficult balance this resort community has achieved. It truly is the most luxurious playground.