During the summer we’re all about finding notable reasons to explore the gorgeous province of British Columbia – and what better a way than to scoot up Hwy 1 from Vancouver to one of our favourite spots for weekend fun: Whistler. We’ve got a quick guide guaranteed to help you plan a little impromptu trip to this stunning ski-bum town that arguably has even more to offer during the dog days of summer.
Stay
We always love checking into the gorgeous Westin Hotel (pictured above; Aubergine patio below) in the heart of Whistler Village. With great deals always on offer during the summer months, you simply can’t beat the service, amenities and proximity to all the action. A recent stay at the resort saw us ensconced in a one-bedroom suite with full kitchen and balcony overlooking snow-capped mountains with a driving range close by.
For other well priced, notable accommodation options and an insider scoop on the latest deals in Whistler, be sure to check out this site.
Do
During the summer, Whistler offers oodles of options suited to the young professional budget and discerning taste. If you can, bring your bike as you’ll put it to good use on the Valley Trail network, or perhaps you want to tackle some single track action. We ventured over to enjoy a bit of cross-country trail riding recently and enjoyed a full day of wheeled adventuring. For tips and trail guide directions, click here.
After a day of exploring (and sweating), make sure you wind your way over to Lost Lake for a cooling dip. This huge lake is nestled adjacent to the Fairmont Chateau Golf Course, and an easy commute to/from the Village.
If you’re looking for another style of adventuring while in Whistler this summer, might we suggest you book yourself a few spots with Wedge Rafting for guaranteed whitewater thrills as you course your way down one of several glacier-fed rivers. With three-hour tours taking place multiple times daily, you’ll be notably soaked in no time.
Another option on our to-do list is to head to nearby, picturesque Pemberton Valley for a little horseback action courtesy of Adventures on Horseback that promises not to be your usual “nose-to-tail” trail ride trek. This company promises to up the ante on traditional trail adventures and offers excursions suited to all abilities, showing riders the stunning countryside scenery, Coastal Mountains, Mount Currie and more.
Eat
Summertime dining in Whistler is all about kicking back on one of the many patios throughout the village. After a day lazing at the beach, hiking the trails, or at the Scandinave Spa, might we suggest you grab a bite and beer at any of these noteworthy venues…
Chill out at the Amsterdam Pub or park yourself at the Garibaldi Lift Company (GLC) for a few post-trail pints. Another option on our notable radar we think YPs will like: Merlin’s Pub (base of Blackcomb) and Creekside’s own Dusty’s Bar and BBQ.
Looking for something a bit more formal? Pretty much all of the local restaurants in town are offering summer dining incentives – we’re talking multi-course, 5-star meals at top-notch spots such as Bearfoot Bistro, the picturesque Nita Lake Lodge or Araxi (you might want to check out their Longtable Dining Series here).
Need even more incentive to get yourself booked in for a weekend away in Whistler this summer? Be sure to peruse the calendar of events tool here and get planning.
Photos courtesy The Westin Hotel Whistler