Anyone familiar with winter sports will know of Whistler. This compact resort town, located on the Sea to Sky Highway about an hour and a half north of Vancouver, is surrounded by the largest skiable area in North America and served as the base for the 2010 Winter Olympics. Whistler is a year-round destination for outdoor activities, offering enough to keep any adrenaline enthusiast entertained. For those who prefer a slower pace, the alpine setting is perfect for hiking on scenic trails, enjoying a riverside picnic, playing a round of golf, or spotting wildlife — black bears are frequently seen on the surrounding hills.

The village is divided into two main areas. Whistler Village is the central hub, home to a wide variety of restaurants, cafés, and bars. Just five minutes away, Whistler Creekside — the original ski base and official Olympic location — offers a quieter atmosphere with a few low-key amenities. Nearby, a series of lakes provides a peaceful retreat, ideal for a stroll or a paddle, offering a chance to escape the bustle of the village streets.