Whistler Blackcomb is the biggest ski area in North America. Many would argue that it's also the best. Found only two hours from Vancouver, ski holidays in Whistler are massively popular for Europeans, Japanese and Australians, who give it an international flavour. Whistler Blackcomb is the largest skiing holiday destination in North America served by one of the most advanced high speed lift systems.

Ski holidays Whistler, Canada: the skiing

The skiing is great for all abilities on both mountains, with the peak of Whistler mountain being particularly appropriate for advanced skiers. There you will find great off-piste with couloirs and bowls providing some of the best powder to be found on ski holidays in North America. Snowboarders, of whom 50,000 descend each year, are also spoilt on Whistler ski holidays, with a specialised park at Blackcomb. The lift system in Whistler is about as efficient as anywhere on the planet, but queues can build up in high season and at weekends. There is also great heli-skiing.

Ski holidays Whistler, Canada: off the snow

The town itself has undergone major facelifts in the last ten years, with the centre being pedestrianised and the purpose-built nature of the resort successfully concealed. Ski holiday accommodation, restaurants, ski school, childcare and après-ski in Whistler are all superb. As regards childcare, you can get a pager, so if a problem arises you can be contacted immediately.

Whistler/Blackcomb is a very friendly ski holiday destination, and the staff are extremely helpful and courteous. Overall, one of the top venues for North American ski holiays, but as the number of package tourists increase, there is a worry that the resort will lose some of its charm. Everyone must go there, but not all at once.

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