Whistler holidays

How to reach Whistler

• Flight time: There are no flights from London to Whistler but it’s convenient to fly to Vancouver. Direct flights to Vancouver from London Heathrow take around 9 hours 30 minutes to 10 hours.

• Transfer time: The most common way to reach Whistler from Vancouver Airport is via the Sea to Sky Highway using regular shuttle services, which take around 2 hours.

• Price: Shuttle buses will set you back around CAD70 one way, with private transfers ranging from CAD300 to CAD500.

Best time to visit Whistler

Whistler is a year-round destination with something to offer in every season, so the ideal time to visit depends on what kind of holiday you’re after.

• December to February are the high-season winter months, with Whistler Blackcomb’s slopes covered in fresh powder. With average temperatures ranging from –6°C to 1°C, about 100 to 150mm of snowfall, and around 4 to 6 hours of daylight, it’s a perfect time for skiers.

• March to May marks spring and is a great time to catch the last of the ski season while enjoying milder weather and fewer tourists. Average temperatures will start at around –2°C in March, rising to 10°C in May. You’ll see plenty of sunshine (6 to 8 hours daily) but less snow.

• June to August brings summer to Whistler and is the perfect time for hikers, bikers and outdoors aficionados. Temperatures can climb even to 25°C, with minimal rainfall (20 to 60mm per month) and as many as 10 hours of sunshine.

• September to November is Whistler’s autumn, offering a more serene side of the village. It’s a good time to arrive if you prefer a peaceful retreat. Temperatures drop from around 15°C to 5°C, with just occasional rainfall (30 to 90mm per month).

Practical information

• Spoken languages: English is the primary language, but you might hear some French as well.

• Local habits and customs: Whistler is a friendly, laid-back place. Respecting the environment is essential, so take care to recycle and dispose of waste properly.

• Currency: Canada uses the Canadian Dollar. ATMs are widely available, and major credit and debit cards are accepted.

• Getting around: Most attractions in Whistler Village are within walking distance. The local bus system is reliable and covers areas beyond the village centre, with fares around CAD2.50 for a single ride. Bike rentals are also popular, particularly in summer.

• Electricity and plug types: Canada uses 120 volts, and plugs are Type A and B, so UK travellers need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Whistler operates on Pacific Standard Time, which is GMT–8, and observes Daylight Saving Time.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada, which can be applied online.

Best things to do in Whistler

Whether you’re after adrenaline-pumping adventure, cultural explorations or peaceful nature contemplation, Whistler holidays are bound to satisfy each and every one.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Peak 2 Peak Gondola: This iconic gondola ride connects Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, offering impressive 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks, valleys and forests.

• Whistler Mountain summit: Once you’ve reached the top via the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, head to the summit of Whistler Mountain to soak in sweeping views of the Coast Mountain Range.

• Lost Lake viewpoints: If you’re into a more tranquil experience, head straight to Lost Lake. The trails here lead to several lovely viewpoints, offering scenic glimpses of the lake framed by the peaks.

The best districts

• Whistler Village: The heart of the resort, Whistler Village, is a buzzing conglomeration of bars, boutiques, hotels, award-winning restaurants and mountain-gear shops.

• Creekside: Located a short drive south from the main village, Creekside is where Whistler first got its start. It’s quieter and less crowded, and also has its own gondola and lift base.

• Upper Village: Home to many of Whistler’s luxury hotels and the renowned Blackcomb base area, Upper Village is quieter than the main village but still offers easy access to shops and activities.

Museums

• Audain Art Museum: The Audain Art Museum is a stunning purpose-built gallery that houses the personal art collection of Vancouver home builder and philanthropist Michael Audain – the vast glass-walled lobby in the treetops is an architectural delight. It’s dedicated to British Columbia art from precontact to today.

Day trips in the area

• Squamish: About an hour’s drive from Whistler, Squamish is a perfect destination for a family outing. It’s famed for the vast granite rock overshadowing it, “The Stawamus Chief”, which looms into view to the east just beyond Shannon Falls. The town also rates as one of Canada’s top spots for rock climbing.

• Pemberton: Located just north of Whistler, Pemberton is known for its serene farms and lush valleys. It’s an excellent spot for taking a scenic drive along the Sea to Sky Highway.

• Joffre Lakes Provincial Park: Joffre Lakes Provincial Park is ideal for hiking enthusiasts as the trail leads to three picturesque glacier-fed lakes, each more stunning than the last.

Activities for families in Whistler

Whistler is a fantastic playground for families, offering a multitude of activities that cater to all ages.

• Vallea Lumina: This multimedia night walk through the forest brings to life a magical story through lights, sounds and stunning visuals. Your kids will be delighted!

• Tree adventure tours: A gentle alternative to ziplining, guided family-friendly treetop walks take you across suspension bridges and viewing platforms, offering a unique way to explore the forest.

• Family Adventure Zone: In the summer, kids can enjoy bungee trampolines, mini golf and a climbing wall at Whistler’s Adventure Zone, located right in the heart of the village.

• Family-friendly ski lessons: In winter, Whistler Blackcomb offers excellent ski and snowboard lessons for children of all ages and abilities, ensuring they can safely enjoy the slopes.

Free things to do in Whistler

There are plenty of free activities that allow you to enjoy the area’s natural beauty without spending a dime.

• Whistler Farmers’ Market: The market is a great place to browse local produce, artisan crafts and delicious treats. Wandering among the stalls can be a real feast for the senses and you don’t have to buy anything.

• Whistler Train Wreck: A short hike south of Whistler leads to a series of train cars that derailed many years ago and were left in the forest. They’re now covered in eye-catching graffiti and have become a popular spot which is free to explore for all.

• Self-guided walking tours: Wander through Whistler Village and beyond, following one of the self-guided trails. The Valley Trail, for instance, connects various parts of the town, lakes and parks, and is perfect for an unhurried stroll.

• Whistler’s art exhibits: In the village, you’ll bump into a variety of outdoor sculptures and public art pieces that you can admire at no cost at all.

Nature and outdoor activities in Whistler

There are activities all year long in Whistler to keep both avid adventurers and those less accustomed to outdoor activity more than satisfied.

• Skiing and snowboarding: Whistler Blackcomb is a world-famous ski resort with over 200 runs, making it one of the largest ski destinations globally. Whether you're an experienced skier or an absolute beginner, you’re sure to find terrain that suits your skill level.

• Hiking and walking: The two most popular high-level day-walks in Whistler are the Rainbow Falls and Singing Pass trails. If high-level hiking seems too daunting, you can opt for one of the plentiful trails for walkers and in-line skaters around Whistler Village.

• Mountain biking: The deservedly celebrated Whistler Mountain Bike Park includes 85 trails, four bike park zones, six access lifts, banked cruisers and dirt trails through canopied forest. Biker’s heaven!

• Ziplining and canopy tours: For an adrenaline-filled way to see the forests in summer, why not try ziplining across valleys and over rivers? Several companies offer guided experiences with multiple zip lines that give you an aerial view of Whistler’s natural beauty.

• Heli-skiing: To take your experience to the next level, Whistler Heli-Skiing is available for helicopter drops to endless big mountain terrain that includes 173 glaciers and 475 runs outside of the Whistler Blackcomb resort.

Local dishes in Whistler

A highlight of holidays to Whistler is the fantastic food scene. You’ll be spoilt for choice as the village is filled with restaurants, cafés and bars.

Some typical dishes

• Poutine: No visit to Canada would be complete without trying poutine, a no-frills but beloved dish consisting of chips topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. You’ll find variations in Whistler, including some with pulled pork or smoked meat.

• Nanaimo Bars: This classic Canadian dessert, originating from Nanaimo, consists of a crumbly biscuit base, creamy custard filling and a chocolate topping. Great treat after a morning or afternoon on the slopes.

Meat dishes

• Canadian BBQ: Head to some of Whistler’s smokehouses for a taste of Canadian BBQ, where you can enjoy smoked brisket, ribs or pulled pork. The meat is cooked low and slow, bringing out rich, deep flavours.

• Bison Burgers: Bison meat is lean and flavoursome and a popular alternative to beef. Why not give a bison burger a try with a creative topping?

Fish and seafood dishes

• Pacific Salmon: The fresh, wild-caught salmon is a must-try when in British Columbia. It’s served in many ways – from grilled fillets to smoked salmon, served with fresh, local vegetables.

• Halibut Fish and Chips: Several pubs around Whistler offer this West Coast twist on the classic fish and chips, where halibut is battered and fried to crispy perfection.

Local drinks

• Ice Wine: This sweet dessert wine, made from grapes that have frozen on the vine, is a speciality of British Columbia. It’s the perfect way to end a meal.

Sports activities during Whistler holidays

Whistler is not just a winter wonderland; it's a year-round destination for sports enthusiasts, making it an ideal choice for active travellers during their Whistler holidays. Nestled in the stunning Coast Mountains, this resort town offers a diverse range of sports and activities that cater to all interests and skill levels.

Skiing and snowboarding

Skiing and snowboarding are, of course, the highlights of any winter visit. Whistler Blackcomb, North America's largest ski resort, boasts over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain and a fantastic variety of runs, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging backcountry options for experienced riders. With world-class facilities and breathtaking views, hitting the slopes in Whistler is an unforgettable experience.

Mountain biking

As the snow melts, Whistler transforms into a haven for mountain biking. The resort features an extensive network of trails that cater to both beginners and seasoned riders. The Whistler Mountain Bike Park is one of the best in the world, offering everything from smooth green trails to exhilarating black diamond runs. This makes Whistler an exciting destination for mountain biking enthusiasts looking to explore the stunning landscapes during their Whistler holidays.

Hiking

For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, hiking is a fantastic way to explore the area’s natural beauty. With miles of well-maintained trails, hikers can enjoy everything from easy walks through picturesque forests to challenging hikes that reward you with stunning mountain views. Popular trails include the scenic Whistler Train Wreck and the more demanding Garibaldi Lake hike.

Water sports

In addition to winter and summer sports, Whistler also hosts various water sports during the warmer months. The nearby lakes, such as Alta Lake and Green Lake, are perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. These activities provide a refreshing break from the summer heat and allow visitors to enjoy the stunning surroundings.

Unique adventures

For a unique sporting experience, don’t miss the chance to try zip-lining through the lush forests or bungee jumping for an adrenaline rush. These exhilarating activities add an extra layer of adventure to your Whistler holidays, offering memories that will last a lifetime.

With its incredible range of sports and outdoor activities, Whistler truly is a playground for adventurers. Whether you're hitting the slopes in winter or exploring the mountain trails in summer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during your Whistler holidays.