Vertiginous descents at Whistler
For those who like the challenge of a ski vacation, Whistler, British Columbia, offers a chance to enjoy some of the world's top ski runs before, during and after the world's best athletes hit the slopes at the 2010 Winter Olympics.
Close to 90 per cent of ski areas will remain open to visitors even at the height of the Games. This vast winter sports playground features close to 200 runs at all levels of difficulty. Every morning, volunteer guides give free orientation tours intended to help you choose the run that's right for you. The resort actually covers two summits – Whistler and Blackcomb – reaching heights of more than 2,000 metres.
A mere two hours from Vancouver, Whistler is not only a ski resort but is also a bustling resort town for all seasons, home to a movie theatre, grocery stores, several hip bars and restaurants ranging from fast foods to fine dining. The ski season generally runs from November until May. And since this year the resort anticipates a dip in customer traffic at the start of the season, a few hotels are already advertising attractive packages for November and December: Until December 18, three-day and four-night condo packages start at $382 per person. Four-star hotels start at $418 per person and five-star hotels like the Fairmont Whistler start at $484 per person.
Whistler is easily accessible from Vancouver by car or by numerous shuttle buses. For details, call 1-800-WHISTLER or visit www.whistler.com.
Click here for a lunch menu perfect for the slopes
On the Trail of Champions at Le Massif
The mere mention of the Charlevoix region of Quebec conjures up well-apportioned tables and cozy inns with stone fireplaces – and the superb Massif de la Rivière Saint- François which towers over the river. With its 770-metre summit and exceptional yearly snowfall, this resort became a national training centre for Canada's future alpine ski champs in 2001. For seasoned skiers, the back-country runs, – a mere 20-minute run from the top of the ski lift – offer a thrilling ski experience. However, since finding your bearings in the wilds can be hazardous, the resort strongly recommends that you bring one of its guides along.
Of course, Le Massif also has runs for skiers at all levels, with most seeming to end right in the St. Lawrence River! At noon or day's end, lovers of fine food can head to Mer & Monts, a restaurant perched on the summit affording a spectacular panoramic view. The chef will be glad to offer a cuisine du marché (roughly translates as 'cooking from the market') made up of game, poultry and artisanal cheeses exclusive to the region. One-day passes are $34 for children and $61 for adults. Several of the region's B&Bs and inns offer ski packages. Call 1-877-536-2774 (www.lemassif.com/en) or 1-800-667-2276 (www.tourisme-charlevoix.com/en).
Page 3 of 4 - Read page four for info on hiking!
