British Columbia: All aboard the snow train
Whistler and Sun Peaks are two exceptional ski resorts, each offering something for everyone. And both are now within easy striking distance from the buzzing city of Vancouver
Nestled between the western coast of Canada and the dramatic rise of the Rocky Mountains snuggles British Columbia, a winter wonderland offering up some of the best skiing in the world.
From illustrious Whistler with its acres of stunning slopes, to the friendly and ski-through resort of Sun Peaks, each of these ski areas has something to offer to every skier, border, and snow-lover.
Plus, a snow train now connects Sun Peaks with Vancouver, known as the world's most liveable city, with its friendly residents, sublime setting and eclectic international food scene. Welcome to British Columbia!
A new rail service now connects Vancouver and Sun Peaks, meaning if you'd prefer not to fly you can leave the bustling cityscape of Vancouver behind and arrive to the stunning mountain vistas of Sun Peaks, cutting a path through some of the most exquisite landscape on earth along the way.
Approaching the resort, peaceful countryside vistas give way to the peaks, vast and imposing. Spread across three mountains, Sun Peaks has an incredible 4,270 acres of skiable terrain, making it the second largest resort in Canada. The village itself is friendly and attractive, made up predominantly of low-rise pastel-hued buildings. This, combined with its laid-back atmosphere and excellent restaurant options give it a somewhat Italian-feel. Plus, much of the accommodation is ski-in/ski-out.
Nursery slopes are ideally situated in the village centre, while adjacent greens — long, winding and peaceful — are there to move on to when you've found your ski legs. In 2014, the resort expanded by some 500 acres, opening up a wondrous new network of more challenging terrain. A short hike above the top lifts is an area of east-facing slopes where the snow is the stuff of legends — light, dry and fluffy, with visibility good even on stormy days. But you don't have to go off-piste to find a fabulous combination of steep slopes and gentle, undulating valleys — Sun Peaks has it all.
Whistler, however, needs no introduction. Its variety of ski runs is mind-boggling. From full valley cruisers to short, sharp drops, the 8171 acres of groomed terrain is a snow-sporting dream.
The resort is even closer to Vancouver; a short two-hour drive away, and despite its growth over the years, everything that has always made it special remains. The village is relaxed, with an excellent selection of bars (don't leave without trying to frozen margueritas), while on the mountain the Belgian waffles are as delicious as ever, the sniffle stations legendary.
Whistler is more cosmopolitan than many alpine resorts, making it a great destination for non-skiers, with a wide selection of spas, restaurants and family-friendly activities. Take The Scandinave Spa, for example, set in stunning mountain surrounds and with a variety of hot tubs to simply sit back and relax in.
Adrenaline seekers, meanwhile, can get involved in snowshoeing, tobogganing and ski jumping at the Olympic Park, the 2010 Winter Olympics venue. Plus, with top-notch avalanche control, organised ski schools and no end of friendly staff patrolling the mountains, Whistler will always live up to its epic reputation.
How to get there
Ski Solutions' experts can offer a fantastic tailor-made trip to Whistler or Sun Peaks this winter with savings of up to 50% on some hotels when booked before 31st August. Prices from £910pp including flights and transfers. Book now
Discover more of Whistler, Sun Peaks and other unforgettable winter destinations at skisolutions.com.
