image
The lobby of Fairmont Chateau Whistler with a timber ceiling and fireplace

Ski resorts

Whistler Blackcomb: skiing in Canada and where to stay

Two mountains, a car-free village and powder that draws skiers from all over the world. This is Whistler Blackcomb, and the hotels with ski-in/ski-out access.

 

Whistler Blackcomb is a dream for many skiers. Two mountains, a vast ski area and a car-free village at the foot of the slopes make it one of the best-known ski resorts in the world, and the powder days here stay with you for a long time.

The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You choose your own dates and room on the hotel page.

Two mountains and Olympic history

Whistler Blackcomb is among the largest ski resorts in North America. During the 2010 Winter Olympics the Alpine events were held here, and today the Peak 2 Peak Gondola links the two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb.

The village at the foot of the slopes

Whistler Village is car-free and sits right by the lifts. You will find restaurants, bars and shops, and the evenings are as important as the days on the slopes.

Getting to Whistler

Fly to Vancouver and drive the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler, a journey of around two hours along the fjord and mountains.

A day in Whistler

A day in Whistler can start on one mountain and end on the other. You ride up Whistler Mountain, take your first runs in the morning light and then glide into the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, hanging high above the valley on its way to Blackcomb. The views of British Columbia’s snowy peaks are unforgettable.

After lunch there are miles of runs ahead, from wide, gentle descents to steep bowls for experienced skiers. And when the lifts close, the pistes lead you straight down into the village, where the après-ski is already under way.

When is the best time to visit Whistler?

The season usually runs from late autumn to spring. January and February are popular for powder, while March and April bring longer days and spring skiing. Christmas and New Year are busy, so book early if you plan to travel then.

Skiing with children in Whistler

Whistler is a great choice for families, with ski schools, dedicated children’s areas and a car-free village that makes it easy to get around. Choose a hotel near the lifts to keep the days simple, leaving time for skiing, play and hot chocolate.

Food and evenings in Whistler

Whistler Village has a wide choice of restaurants, from casual spots to more exclusive kitchens. The atmosphere is international and lively, and many end the day in a hotel spa or a warm outdoor pool under the open sky.

The journey is part of the experience

The drive from Vancouver to Whistler along the Sea-to-Sky Highway is one of the most beautiful in Canada, with the water on one side and the mountains on the other. Many combine their ski holiday with a few days in Vancouver.

Tips before you book

Book your hotel early in high season and check whether lift passes can be bought in advance. Stay in the village or close to the lifts to avoid daily transfers.

Where to stay in Whistler

Stay in the village or ski-in/ski-out. Here are three hotels we would happily choose.

Fairmont Chateau Whistler: ski-in/ski-out

A resort with ski-in/ski-out access and a free ski bus, at Blackcomb.

Book your stay: See rooms at Fairmont Chateau Whistler

Four Seasons Resort Whistler: luxury and spa

A luxury resort with a spa, close to Whistler Blackcomb.

Book your stay: See rooms at Four Seasons Resort Whistler

Nita Lake Lodge: peace by the lake

A hotel with a spa on Nita Lake, close to Whistler Blackcomb.

Book your stay: See rooms at Nita Lake Lodge

Want to compare? See all our ski resorts or read about the best ski resorts in the US.

Frequently asked questions about skiing in Whistler

Where should I stay in Whistler?

Fairmont Chateau Whistler offers ski-in/ski-out access at Blackcomb, Four Seasons Resort Whistler has a spa and luxury, and Nita Lake Lodge offers peace by the lake.

What is Peak 2 Peak?

Peak 2 Peak is the gondola linking Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, so you can ski both on the same day.

How do you get to Whistler?

Fly to Vancouver and drive the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler, a journey of around two hours.

When is the best time to visit Whistler?

The season runs from late autumn to spring. January and February are popular for powder, while March and April bring longer days and spring skiing.