Whistler is located in a beautiful part of British Columbia, a few hours drive from Vancouver. Sat high in the mountains, the region attracts outdoor enthusiasts in the warmer months and skiers in the winter. Various types of accommodation and facilities are available depending on what level of comfort you desire. There are various camping spots available, but if that’s not your thing, you can try a luxurious log cabin at https://www.luxuryretreats.com. If you’re planning a weekend in Whistler, here are a few things that you can expect on your trip.
It’s Going to Be Cold
Whistler is going to be cold for most of the year. Winter temperatures hover several degrees below zero. In the summer, the mercury rarely rises to t-shirt weather under the midday sun. If you’re coming to the region to go skiing, you know exactly what you need to pack. But some tourists, especially those who aren’t from Canada, often get caught off guard. You’ll need to bring warm clothes even if you’re here in July. Pack a waterproof, a sweater and jeans. The best way to prepare is to monitor the weather forecast. Then pack accordingly.
There’s Going to Be a Lot of People
During your trip in Whistler, regardless of the time of year, you’ll encounter crowds. You’ll bump into the local tourists in the summer who are travelling for a city escape and to get out into nature. In the winter, you’ll face the hundreds of snowboarders and skiers taking advantage of the weekend to hit the slopes for 48 hours.
Despite the large crowds on weekends, it doesn’t mean that you have to wait in line. In fact, if you’re strategic and smart with your trip planning, you can reserve skiing equipment and book fast-track tickets. As soon as you arrive, you can collect your skis or snowboard and can skip the line at the chairlifts.
A little advance planning can really help you get the most out of your limited time in Whistler. Travellers in Whistler during the summer, can take advantage of the longer daylight hours to avoid the crowds. Earlier risers will find the sun up by 5 am and nobody on the hiking trails. Or you’ll be able to enjoy the nature until well after 9 pm. Most of the other visitors will be out and about in the middle of the day.
The Food in Whistler is Awesome
Despite Whistler Village being relatively small in size, it packs a surprisingly advanced culinary scene. The tiny village has classy French restaurants, sushi bars and fast food joints. If you want a romantic dinner, you can book a candlelit dinner with a more formal atmosphere. If this isn’t your thing, you can snack on budget-friendly dishes on the next street.
Pro tip: Try to avoid eating out in Whistler Village between 11.30 am and 1.30 pm. This is peak time, and the tables are bursting with people with more waiting at the door. During this time, you might have to wait up to an hour to get your meal. The best time to eat after 2.00 pm , you can be in and out in 30 minutes. Which means you’ll be back on the mountains faster than ever.
Whistler is Pricey
If you want to save a few dollars here and there, Whistler isn’t for you. The price is considered high, even for Canada standards. But if you’re willing to splurge, you’re going to come away with an unforgettable experience. Unlike other tourist hotspots, you will feel like you’re getting good value for money in Whistler. Especially when you’re sat inside your luxurious log cabin in the evening next to an open fire!
The Peak Two Gondola is Awesome
The 4.4 kilometre gondola connects both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Suspended over the alpine forest and surrounded by the snowy hills, the eleven minute ride promises to be an unforgettable experience. You don’t have to be skiing or snowboarding to ride the gondola. Take the chairlift up Whistler and then you can pass to its sister mountain while savouring the views!
Pro tip: The gondola runs frequently and only stops in poor weather conditions. You should only ride it on a clear day otherwise you’ll miss the views. Download the Whistler-Blackcomb app, which gives the latest weather at the top. Then plan your time on the gondola to coincide with clear conditions. It’s advisable to book your tickets online so you don’t have to wait in line on the day.
Take a Day Trip
If you drive a short distance from Whistler, you’ll find the former logging town called Squamish and Alexander Falls. Squamish has lots of outdoor activities including walls for rock climbing and obstacle courses. This promises fun for the entire family especially if you’re travelling with teenagers. Alexander Falls is the largest waterfall in the region which rises over 42 metres.
Water cascades over into a pristine lake below. If you visit in the summer, you can go swimming in the lake. Just be aware that the roads to both of these nearby attractions can be icy during the winter. Some of the more narrow sections might be cut off completely after heavy snowfall, especially in the areas between Whistler and Squamish.
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