As the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang draw to a close, more than 5,000 miles across the Pacific Ocean in British Columbia, skiers in the resort that hosted events during the 2010 winter games are anticipating some of the best snow of the season.
Whistler — frequently rated the world’s best ski resort — experiences some of its healthiest snowfalls in March. Last year, 301cm fell during the month, according to specialist travel agency Iglu Ski.
Comprising the twin peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, the area boasts more than 8,000 acres of skiable terrain. Skiers can choose from more than 200 trails over high bowls and glaciers or through woodland, with the longest runs — such as Upper to Lower Olympic — stretching for seven miles.
Whistler Blackcomb Ski and Snowboard School caters for skiers of all abilities, while Bond-wannabes and thrill-seekers may be tempted by heli-skiing — launching themselves on to untracked powder from a helicopter. “Being physically fit is key,” advises the promotional blurb.
Sustenance is easy to come by on or off the slopes. Rendezvous Lodge on Blackcomb Mountain offers panoramic views alongside cafeteria-style meals. Meanwhile, reservations are recommended at the Rimrock Cafe, a couple of miles south of the main entrance to Whistler Village, which specialises in fish and meat. Among the local fare on offer is grilled wild British Columbian salmon on a bed of lobster mashed potatoes.
Finally, Creekside and Whistler Villages are the key après-ski spots: try ribs, cold beer and live music at Dusty’s Bar & BBQ or a flight of sub-zero vodka in the sleek Ketel One Ice Room at Bearfoot Bistro.
Properties
A nine-bedroom chalet with almost 8,000 sq ft of living space and unobstructed mountain views is available through Maggi Thornhill for $15m.
A ninth-floor studio apartment in the Four Seasons Whistler Resort comes with use of the hotel’s facilities and is available through John Ryan Personal Real Estate for $392,000.
Photographs: AFP/Getty Images; Dreamstime; LightRocket via Getty Images
