November 12, 2007

US & Canada | Canada | British Columbia | Whistler

Snowdreams of Whistler

By Christie Pashby

With the world’s highest gondola nearing completion, the next Winter Olympics host is steeled for action.

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There’s a reason Whistler keeps getting rated the best ski resort in North America. Well, there are many reasons — accessibility (just two hours from oh-so-liveable Vancouver), a charming pedestrian-friendly village, fabulous nightlife and, of course, killer snow. It’s also the promised land for ski and snowboard bums “lifestylers,” a place where being goofy and getting into a jam are de rigeur. With the 2007-2008 season starting November 22, snowdreamers are already skipping ahead to 2010, when Whistler will co-host the Winter Olympic Games. In preparation for the global onslaught, the resort’s two ski hills are uniting — literally. By the end of 2008, the Peak 2 Peak gondola will connect Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, setting world records for length and height.

Top hotels are also getting a jump start on the Olympic craze. Slated to open next month, Nita Lake Lodge is an all-suite Small Luxury Hotel at Whistler’s Creekside base. The A-list favorite is the new Adara Whistler Hotel, where room service is delivered from the swanky Bearfoot Bistro next door. Fairmont Chateau Whistler (pictured) has a ski valet and access to fresh tracks each morning. And for après ski, head from the slopes to Garibaldi Lift Company pub, atop the Whistler Gondola: it’s the only ski-in, ski-out bar in town.