Whistler

While Whistler might be best known as an exciting ski destination, this pretty alpine village becomes an exciting adventure playground during the summer months. Perfect for families and adrenalin junkies, the mountains, flower-strewn slopes, alpine lakes and rivers offer a range of activities and outdoor adventures to suit all tastes and ages. Whistler is 120-kilometres north of Vancouver and there are various ways to get there. For drivers, the Sea to Sky Highway winds along the edge of British Columbia and the Salish Sea before heading up to the resort and offers great views. Or, take the Rocky Mountaineer Whistler Sea to Sky Climb, a sightseeing trip of around three-hours with spectacular views of the ocean, forests and mountains. For an aerial perspective, there’s also the option to take a 30-minute floatplane trip, soaring over the lakes, peaks and valleys below.

But whatever mode of transport you choose, the great range of accommodation, shops, restaurants and bars in Whistler, is bound to impress. During the winter months the resort offers some of the world’s best downhill and cross-country skiing, heli-skiing, snow-boarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, fat biking and snow-tubing fun. While the summer months have many attractions of their own. There is great hiking and mountain biking across alpine meadows, mountain tops and by the lakes. The lakes and rivers are also great for fishing, kayaking and white-water rafting. The fearless can enjoy zip-lining at Blackcomb Mountain, or for a more sedate ride, we suggest taking the Peak to Peak Gondola between Blackcomb and Whistler Mountains for panoramic views of the valley below.

The mountains are also home to black bears and those interested can take a bear-viewing tour in the meadows and forests and for a real treat, we’d suggest taking a sightseeing trip in a floatplane to see the ancient glaciers, valleys, peaks and lakes spread out below you. Whistler is a fabulous destination at any time of year and we think it combines well with a trip to Vancouver, making a great family and adventure-filled holiday for all tastes and ages.