Whistler BC in 48 hours
The captivating resort town of Whistler lies barely two hours by road from the coastal city of Vancouver, British Columbia. Millions of people, from all over the world, throng to this award-winning holiday destination, to take in some of the most spectacular landscapes this country has to offer.
While the attractions may differ from season to season, Whistler today is a year-round vacation spot offering outdoor activities, shopping, and relaxation. It is advisable to spend as much time as you possibly can, preferably a week, to see and explore Whistler thoroughly. However, for those who cannot spare more than 48 hours, here is a whirlwind guide which talks about the local haunts and explains how to make the most of your short stay in Whistler BC.
A Cabin In The Woods
Being one with nature
Before we get started we must talk lodging. Whistler and Britsh Columbia in general, amongst many drawcards, has one major drawcard. It’s nature. It would be a disservice finding an accommodation that doesn’t bring that nature to your front door. From chalets and villas to estates and retreats Whistler vacation homes puts the emphasis on what makes Canada’s West Coast so stunning. Grab a group of close friends or a few couples and experience nature the way it is meant to be experienced.
Day 1
(afternoon and night)
Assuming you arrive in Whistler late morning from Vancouver, the rest of the day should be pretty straightforward, with rest and stops to acclimatize and gain energy for the sterner schedule ahead.
After checking in to your hotel and spending some time to rejuvenate, head to the hills in the afternoon to experience the activities on offer, even if you are a first-timer. If there is a lot of snow around, as it usually is, head to the # 1 Whistler Blackcomb resort. The professional world-class instructors there will gladly impart a beginner ski or snowboarding lesson to you in no time. Just in case your short stint on the powder laden mountains has not pumped up the adrenaline in your body, you can opt for a speedy dog sled trip speeding down the slopes.
To cap the end of a perfect day, head to the Bearfoot Bistro in the evening for some high-class dining and plenty of fizz in the Canadian mountains. This award-winning restaurant comprises of vodka bar made of ice and an underground wine cellar that boasts of a collection of 20,000 bottles and an impressive stock of champagne as well.
Day 2
Considering that the offerings of the night before may have left you a bit tired and dizzy, the start of the second day should be planned to take the evening’s blues away at once. There is no better to go about this than a hearty breakfast with some authentic French crepes at Crepe Montagne.The other alternative is the Elements Urban Tapas Parlour, where you can savor different types of egg creations with ham, potato tarts, and Brie French toast.
After breakfast, start the day by taking a stroll through the village to the Squamish Lil’Wat Center, to learn more about the history and culture of First Nations of the region. For the rest of the afternoon, take the lifts to head up for lunch. Admire the views of the Whistler Roundhouse and the surroundings. If you can afford, go on a unmissable helicopter tour which showcases the local sights and the incredible glaciers from above. On the way back to town, do not forget to take selfies with the Olympic Rings, an iconic landmark left as a result of the 2010 Winter Olympics held here.
Since this would be your last evening in Whistler, it is recommended to dine at some special place. From fast food to some delicious feasts, the options to nourish and keep yourself well fed are limitless. If a classy dinner is on your menu, then head to the Rimrock Cafe. Sushi lovers will love the food at Sushi Village, while if a romantic evening is on the agenda, enjoy a meal with your partner at the scenic Nita Lake Lodge.
The last morning
(forenoon)
While packing may be occupying your thoughts, do not make the mistake of leaving Whistler without experiencing the Peak2Peak Gondola ride…
This extremely popular and a marvelous piece of engineering spans over almost 4.4 km, between the two iconic mountains of Whistler and Blackcomb. It is best to take the open-air chairlift first, to Blackcomb mountain, and then ride the gondola to Whistler. The trip back to the village can then be done on the Whistler gondola.
The views from the Peak2Peak gondola, provide an unforgettable 360-degree view of the surrounding forests, lakes, glaciers and the Whistler Village. For something extra special, spend a bit more and take the ride in the glass-bottomed gondola, to add to the thrill.
Assuming you are headed back to Vancouver, take the Rocky Mountaineer train. This is said to be the perfect way to end your Whistler trip as the ride takes you through the most amazing natural scenery in the world. The three and half hour trip slowly winds through the snow-capped Tantalus mountains, before dropping you back to Vancouver. Notably, the various halts en route, allow for excellent photo shoots, apart from imparting a lot of historical knowledge.
Conclusion:
Whistler makes for an ideal 48-hour holiday destination, especially for those persons who cannot take much time off from their otherwise busy schedule from Vancouver. Since the advent of the Winter Olympics of 2010, the infrastructure has been revamped totally and provides visitors quick access to the town of Whistler. Remember, though, that deep down it is the passion of the locals which has made Whistler great, and not the terrain nor the snow.The hard work they have put in reflects on the massive audience they manage to attract from every corner of the globe.
Accommodations:
From chalets and villas to estates and retreats Whistler vacation homes puts the emphasis on what makes Canada’s West Coast so stunning. Grab a group of close friends or a few couples and experience nature the way it is meant to be experienced.
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About the author:
Wander With Jo | https://www.wanderwithjo.com
Jyotsna Ramani aka Jo, is a passionate globetrotter, wildlife enthusiast, thrill seeker, and writer. She loves to explore new places and inspire others to travel and after her adventures, she goes back to her blog and shares my escapades. She will expose secret drinking holes and get your adrenaline pumping. Grab a beer, kick off your shoes and enjoy the read!
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