Whistler: ‘World Class’ for Good Reason

Whistler is a well-known destination for many reasons…first, it’s the largest ski resort in North American.  Second, it has been a host venue for the winter Olympics, most recently in 2010.  The resort community has so much to offer, be it winter, summer, or anytime in between.  From skiing, snowboarding, Nordic and dog sledding  in the winter…to golf, mountain bike riding, bungee jumping and zipline tours in the summer, Whistler is a recreational paradise. My most recent trip to the area was this past summer during a perfect stretch of weather.  I rode their newest attraction, the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which was just spectacular…have a look at the video below.

I’ve been on a number of gondola rides in my day, but let me tell you…I’ve never been on anything like the Peak 2 Peak before.  The Peak 2 Peak Gondola ride is different due in part to the fact that they broke all the molds when engineering and constructing this monolithic experience.

We stayed in the heart of Whistler Village at the Crystal Lodge hotel, which is within walking distance to just about everything. The Village is very pedestrian friendly, with a stone walkway weaving through parks and patios while nestlings up to cafe’s and chairlifts.

There are so many cool shops and restaurants to choose from, and with a plethora of outdoor activities, you could spend a month there and not get board.

While visiting Whistler, here are some suggestions:

• For an outstanding meal with incredible presentation and combinations, check out Araxi.
• I have not eaten there, but apparently the locals love Umberto’s.
• I’m not a hot dog fan, but Zogs Dogs is a local tradition.  Apparently their “Poutine” (which is a distinctly Canadian dish) is extremely popular…fries with gravy on top of cheese curds…no thank you.
• For some great “cheap eats,” check out Mogul’s, great place for something quick…and, they have the greatest chocolate chip oatmeal cookies EVER!
• The locals also love Elements for breakfast. Mogul’s is good too.
• For an outstanding Caeser…check out the Fairmont Chateau.
• Speaking of the Fairmont…Richard Samuels often plays at the Mallard lounge, he’s a wonderful musician and entertainer.
• Many think Blackcomb Mountain is better than Whistler.
• Don’t miss getting your picture taken in front of one of the many Olympic sculptures in and around the Village.  There is even a stone sculpture at the top of Whistler Mountain.

Click the following links to see more pictures of Peak 2 Peak or pictures of Whistler.  If you’ve been to the Whistler area, please leave a comment below and tell my readers and me what you like best?

For more information on visiting Whistler, check out the following links:

• Whistler.com is the official tourism site for lodging and recreational activities. 1.800.944.7853
• WhistlerBlackcomb.com is the official site for the ski resort. 1.866.218.9690