The Province

Whistler is Wonderland

- By GINA NOELLE DAGGETT SPECIAL TO THE PROVINCE

Whistler is a slice of winter heaven. From the piles of snow, to couples walking arm-in-arm through falling snowflakes and twinkling lights, Whistler is at its finest this time of year.

“Whistler is a winter wonderland” says Patricia Westerholm of Tourism Whistler.

“But it’s more than beauty and warm fuzzies,” she adds, “it also has the most skiable terrain and one of the longest ski seasons in North America.”

“When you aren’t on your favourite run, there are lots of other activities to keep you busy too,” says Westerholm. These include an exciting culinary scene, vibrant arts and cultural community, a bustling Village and other signature experience­s that are not only quintessen­tial Whistler, but also truly Canadian.

“There’s so much to do, it’s pretty difficult to experience it all in a weekend,” says Westerholm. “But you can sure try!”

Here are some ideas to make the most out of your Whistler weekend:

If you haven’t skated at the outdoor rink at Olympic Plaza, put it at the top of your list. The public rink, free to everyone with skates (they rent them, too), is all about skate and shake. It’s part ice skating, part dance party.

After you are done skating, be sure to stop at the Olympic rings, just on the edge of the rink, and get your moment of glory and a snapshot with a piece of history.

If you are in town until Monday, you should check out the Fire & Ice Show. True to its name, it is all about fireworks, fire play and ski/snowboard big air. Down at Skier’s Plaza, between the Whistler and Blackcomb gondolas, the show is every Sunday at 6:30 pm until the end of March.

What is a trip to Whistler without hitting the mountain? Come tear into the moguls like a champion over at Creekside at the Dave Murray Downhill. It’s where the best skiers in the world competed in 2010 and it will leave you awed and inspired. And maybe a little humbled.

Looking for something low key? How about strapping on some snowshoes and heading into the woods in search of Lost Lake. Connect with nature and revel in the gentle beauty of the snowbound forest. Stop at the PassivHaus to warm up with a hot chocolate.

Don’t forget to end your day with hot toddies après anything fireside, at one of the many inviting watering holes in the Village. It’s the perfect period at the end of your Whistler winter story.

For more: www.whistler.com

 ??  ?? PHOTO BY LOGAN SWAYZE | COAST MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPH­Y COURTESY WHISTLERBL­ACKCOMB
PHOTO BY LOGAN SWAYZE | COAST MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPH­Y COURTESY WHISTLERBL­ACKCOMB

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