As we turn our focus to ski season, we tend to think Colorado or Utah, but one of the best options out there is Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia. Not only does the mountain offer unparalleled skiing opportunities, the Four Seasons Resort is a perfect ski-in/ski-out resort to end each day. Here are some reasons why this should be your top choice for a family ski vacation.
Benefits of Whistler Blackcomb
Lower Altitude
The base of the mountain in Whistler Village is just above ~2000 feet. Park City Utah is ~7000 feet, Aspen is nearly 8000 feet, and Beaver Creek is 8100. Village at Whistler is much easier to manage, especially for kids and those who are really bothered by altitude. If the hardcore skiers in your group are afraid this may mean less snow, tell them not to worry – Whistler’s snow is constantly rated among the very best, with 55% of the runs facing north.
Photo courtesy of Vancouver Convention and Visitors Bureau
Vancouver and Ski to Sky Highway
The entry point for Whistler is Vancouver, which is one of the best cities in the world. Enjoy a day or two on the front end (or back end) of your trip to explore this tremendous city. Then, the 2 hour drive offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the world – but it’s best to get a transfer arranged vs. navigating in the snow. We can arrange for a meet-and-greet right at the airport to make it super easy.
Enough Runs for a Lifetime
Whistler and Blackcomb are two side-by-side mountains with more than 200 marked runs, 8,171 acres of terrain, 16 alpine bowls, and 3 glaciers combined, offering more choices than almost any other mountain destination in the world.
Outstanding Ski School for Kids
Whistler Blackcomb Snow School is regarded as one of the best ski and snowboard schools in North America. Snow School programs offer certified and professional instructors from around the world. They also offer post-ski-school activities for kids so you can enjoy a full day on the slopes.
Four Seasons Resort
There is no other place to stay than the Four Seasons. The resort does skiing VERY well, with everything you could ever need to make for a super-easy trip.
Deluxe Rooms to Three-Bedroom Residences
Even the entry level rooms offer mountain views, a furnished balcony and a sitting area in front of the fireplace. Interested in going with the whole family? A three bedroom residence also offers a full kitchen and spacious living area. The residences also include a dedicated ski concierge that will fit your skis in your residence. And, an expert chef can prepare a custom menu for you to enjoy.
Resort Ski Concierge
Just a three-minute walk from the front door of the resort, the Four Seasons Ski Concierge provides in-house fittings and gives insights into the day’s best runs. The Ski Concierge team also takes charge of your equipment from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, transporting it from the Resort to the base of Blackcomb Mountain and back again, so you never have to think about it. The team will also assist kids with their boots, skis and snowboards safely. At the end of each day, you can leave your gear with the team and enjoy complimentary cookies and hot chocolate.
Rentals Made Simple
The Resort is home to its own rentals store on the main level. Experienced staff will ensure that your equipment is perfectly fitted, and they’ll work with the Ski Concierge to make sure your items are ready and waiting for you at the base of the mountain.
Wintertime in Whistler
Join the resort’s winter tradition and warm up your own s'mores by the vintage camper and fire pit. Made with Graham cracker, marshmallow and chocolate, this Whistler favourite is the perfect way to indulge after a day on the mountain. Kids will also get a kick out of the resort’s resident pet, Maola, a playful Alaskan malamute. She’ll happily chase snowballs and help kids make snow angels.
Thanks to the 2010 Winter Olympics in Whistler, the ice skating rink at Olympic Plaza is the ideal place to skate as a family (yes, they have rentals) or let the kids burn off more energy.
Value
A trip to Whistler Blackcomb comes at a fantastic value. Lift ticket prices are lower in Whistler than at most major US destinations, and that’s even before accounting for the fact that 1 US Dollar is worth 1.32 Canadian Dollars. This offers you an over 30% discount on your resort, ski rental and ski pass. Combine that with our Preferred Partner amenities for a great deal:
Daily full American breakfast for two people per bedroom, served through In-Room Dining or in the hotel restaurant (including buffets)
Food and beverage credit of USD100
Upgrade of one category, based on availability at time of check-in
Complimentary basic Internet in all guest rooms; complimentary premium Internet in all suites