SUN PEAKS Canada’s second largest resort is second to none delivering 4,270 skiable acres with 135 runs. And despite it being Canada’s 2nd largest resort, its expansive terrain means it rarely gets crowded. There is truly something for everyone from green and blue cruisers to the steep and deep challenging blacks of Mt. Tod.
And whilst its terrain can be challenging, its conditions are not; Sun Peaks delivers plenty of the B.C interior’s light & dry powder snow all basking under 2,000+ hours of sunshine…what’s not for a family to love?
Book by August 31 and stay 7 nights at luxurious Sun Peaks Grand with transfers and lift tickets from just $1,180pp!
If you want more variety of terrain, more lifts and more skiable acres than anywhere else in North America then WHISTLER is your mountain, no one gets bored here! It offers heaps of terrain for every ski level plus some great specially designed, kid focussed ski trails and ski play areas & rail parks.
And, with over 100 bars & restaurants, 200 retail outlets and heaps of fun family-friendly activities such as mini snowmobiling, tubing and zip lining, it all makes Whistler just as much fun off the mountain as on.
Book by June 30 and receive 45% OFF at Delta Hotels by Marriott Whistler Village Suites!
Perhaps your preference is for BIG WHITE’s big value – not only does it offer lots of terrain and the B.C interior’s renowned soft dry powder, it is one of the best value resorts around with heaps of affordable ski-in, ski-out accommodation choices, cheaper lift tickets and kids ski free!
Enjoy 14 nights ski-in/ski-out accommodation, lift tickets and transfers from just $4,585pp!
For the adrenaline junkies, you can’t go past Canada’s newest purpose-built resort, REVELSTOKE. It offers North America’s highest vertical and it’s nirvana for families seeking a challenge – powder is plentiful, the terrain is steep and there are plenty of backcountry and heli-skiing options.
Enjoy 14 nights luxury accommodation, lift tickets and transfers from just $4,245pp!
Visiting BANFF and LAKE LOUISE is your chance to ski in one of the most unique places on earth. 3 ski resorts over 8,000 skiable acres within UNESCO protected Banff National Park, it is one of the last truly wild places. 2 unique and legendary towns are surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and iconic Canadian wildlife and adventure.
Save up to 25% and experience 7 Nights in Banff with lift tickets and transfers from $1,499 pp!
PANORAMA, as its name suggests, is a spectacular resort offering over 3,000 skiable acres and the variety to please. For families and beginners, there is the custom designed Discovery Zone or for those looking to push boundaries, former heli-skiing mecca, Taynton Bowl can’t be beaten! Plus its quaint pedestrian village, super convenient 100% ski-in, ski-out accommodation, Canada’s largest hot springs and Kids Ski Free make it an ideal family choice!
Book by August 31 and receive up to 50% off accommodation + Kids Ski Free!
“You’re gorgeous, baby, you’re sophisticated, you live well…Vancouver is Manhattan with mountains. It’s a liquid city, a tomorrow city, equal parts India, China, England, France and the Pacific Northwest. It’s the cool North American sibling.” – The New York Times
Vancouver isn’t just a gateway to great Ski destinations, but an experience in itself – be sure to include a couple of nights (at least!) before or after your Mountain adventure to enjoy what this amazing city has to offer. Take a stroll around magnificent Stanley Park, enjoy a multi sensory smorgasbord at Granville Island’s Public market or sway gently over the Capilano Canyon on one of the worlds longest and highest suspension bridges, not to mention incredible dining, Art Galleries, Nightlife, Shopping….
OR
Sheraton Wall Centre – Embrace the spirit of the city nestled in the centre of the exciting downtown district, this hotel features the iconic One Wall Centre, with the North Tower being one of Vancouver’s most extraordinary buildings and architectural icons (you may recognise from X-Men & The Last Stand!!). A short distance from attractions including Stanley Park, Rogers Arena and Canada Place, as well as Yaletown and shopping on Robson Street.
Enjoy 7 Nights at the Hakuba Mominoki Hotel, plus Lift Passes and Transfers from $2147pp
Package includes:
Price is based on 2 adults travelling
**Ask us about pricing for alternate dates, room configuration or duration**
Hakuba Mominoki Hotel: is one of the premier hotels in Hakuba, noted for its luxuriousness and location, directly at the base of the mountain and only 3 minutes walk to Kokusai lift. The interior of the hotel has been furnished superbly and provides customers with complete comfort and elegance. Mominoki offers its guests a very high standard of accommodation, with spacious, comfortable rooms with most enjoying great views of the surrounding mountains.
Enjoy 7 Nights at Snake River Lodge & Spa plus Lift Pass and Transfers from $2,275pp
Package includes:
Price is based on 2 adults.
** Ask us about alternate dates, room configuration and duration’s**
Snake River Lodge & Spa is enviably situated at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain in the heart of Teton Village, just 300 feet from the world-famous Aerial Tram you will be claiming first tracks with ease! Offering a diverse collection of suites, guest rooms, penthouses and private residences to create your perfect mountain refuge. Jaw dropping views, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat panel HD TV’s, fireplaces, refrigerators and plush robes and slippers await. Feast on tantalizing cuisine at the award-winning Gamefish Restaurant and Bar or revitalize at the 17,000 square foot full service spa.
“Best US Ski Hotel 2017 & Top Three Ski Hotels in the World 2017” – World Ski Awards
TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2018
Enjoy 10 Nights at Waldorf Astoria, Park City plus Lift Passes and Transfers from $6,240pp
Package includes:
Price is based on 2 adults – limited availability, book now!
“Ask us about pricing for alternate dates, room configurations & duration of stay”
Waldorf Astoria, Park City Welcomes guests to the only luxury hotel with slope side access to Park City Mountain, the largest ski resort in the United States. Enjoy 7,300 acres of varied terrain with North America’s only chairlift with heated seats! Only 35 minutes from the Salt Lake City International Airport, you will be enjoying the spectacular view of the Wasatch Mountains from your Suite in no time! All 159 unique guest rooms and suites offer custom-designed interiors and furnishings, original local artwork and fireplaces.
Enjoy 12 Nights at Stonebridge Inn, a Destination Hotel plus Lift Passes and Transfers from $3070 per/person
Package includes:
Price is based on 2 adults, subject to availability
**Ask us about pricing for alternate dates, family configurations & duration of stay**
A Destination Hotel, located right in the heart of Snowmass Village and just a short walk to the slopes and Snowmass Mall. Stonebridge Inn is an affordable and intimate alpine escape, framed by aspen groves, wildflower meadows and the 14,000-foot peaks of the Rockies. It offers 93 spaciously and comfortably designed hotel rooms and suites, an outdoor pool and hot tubs heated year-round, plus seasonally-inspired and locally-sourced cuisine at The Artisan bar & restaurant on-site. An outdoor lover’s delight with the ambiance reminiscent of European ski lodges, the service is friendly, and the location is unparalleled!
Deluxe rooms and King suites offer all of the following amenities and services:
Services available on property through partners:
In-room massage, beauty and fitness by Full Circle Massage
Overnight ski tuning by Incline Ski & Board Shop
Internet Access
Enjoy 14 Nights, lift tickets and transfers from just $4,585 Per/Person!
Package includes:
Stonebridge Lodge is truly ski-in, ski-out convenience at its very best. There is no better location in Big White, from the spectacular views of the Monashee Mountains to the unparalleled village centre location
Package includes:
Book by November 1st, 2019. Price is based on 2 adults travelling January 4 – 31,2020 (excludes MLK weekend 17,18,19 January 2020)
Mountain Lodge is nestled amongst the majestic foot peaks of Colorado’s San Juan mountains and surrounded by acres of pristine ski terrain, this breathtaking resort exudes a chic, yet rustic charm that radiates serenity and luxury. Beautiful guestrooms, suites and private log cabins feature warm Western design, personal balconies and modern lifestyle amenities. Designed with soft leather furnishings, rich wood accents and warm interiors, an oasis of alpine elegance.
Stay 10 Nights at Snowbird Lodge plus MY1Pass & Transfers from $2399pp!
Package includes:
Price is based on 2 adults. Book by 15 November 2019. Valid for stays: 6 – 31 January: 22 March – 13 April, 2020
Snowbird Lodge offers luxury hotel rooms and suites, fitness center, 24 seat theater, kids play area, and lounge. All suites have private hot tubs and washing machines. The ultimate luxury ski-in/ski-out location in the village!
Enjoy 10 Nights at The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler including Lift Tickets & Transfers from $3390pp!
Package includes:
Price is based on 2 adults. Book by 15 November 2019. Valid for stays: February 23– March 28,2020
Black out dates: Feb 27-29,2020
The Westin Resort & Spa is Perfectly located right next to the Whistler Gondola in the middle of the village, steps away from restaurants and all the attractions. The Westin is true luxury. Every suite, including Junior Suites, 1 and 2 bedroom suites has a fully equipped kitchen, a welcoming fireplace, flat panel television, inviting soaker tub, quality-appointed kitchen and windows that open to fresh mountain air. The Avello Spa & health Club includes indoor/outdoor pool, hot tubs and sauna.
Enjoy every 5th Night FREE at Mountain Lodge, Telluride plus lift tickets and transfers from $4960pp!
Package includes:
Price is based on 2 adults. Book by 15 November 2019. Valid for stays: February 29– March 20,2020
Mountain Lodge Telluride invites you to experience its rustic elegance, western allure and simple luxury. Richly furnished with soft leather furniture and a log cabin motif that evokes the spirit of Colorado, charming lodge rooms, spacious suites, luxurious residences, and rustic log cabins offer a perfect retreat. Designed with a blend of Western charm and modern chic, featuring gourmet kitchens, jetted tubs, cozy fireplaces, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Embrace the thoughtful style and warmth of this Telluride mountain oasis and enjoy the spectacular alpine views and fresh mountain breezes that beckon you to explore the great outdoors. Relax on your private balcony overlooking rugged 14,000-foot peaks or gaze at the stars against the velvety night sky.
Long Stay Special – Stay 14 Nights, ONLY pay for 12 Nights!
From $2699pp including transfers and lift pass
Package includes:
Price is based on 2 adults, book by 15 November,2019
Valid for stays 16 November, 2019 – 15 April, 2020
Blackout Period: 21 December, 2019 – 03 January,2020
The Hearthstone Lodge is a ski in/ski out all suites hotel with efficiency kitchens and fireplaces in each hotel room. There are 70 suites in total ranging from studio to family and the largest three-bedroom suite. All offering the convenience of a kitchen with a full size fridge, microwave and stove top, flat screen digital TV, high speed wireless and a seating area with gas fireplace. Many of the hotel suites are adjoining making it popular with families or couples travelling together on a BC ski vacation.
Save up to 20% and enjoy 12 Nights at Sun Peaks Grand plus lift tickets and transfers from $2,379pp!
Package includes:
Price is based on 2 adults. Book by 15 November 2019. Valid for stays: February 23 – March 28
Sun Peaks Grand is located in the core of the European-inspired Sun Peaks Resort village just 45 minutes from Kamloops. With chairlifts, trails and activities at the doorstep, as well as an on-site grocery store, boutiques, eateries, a nightclub, and brand-new guest rooms delivering quiet luxury with a hint of modern rustic-ness. The hotel amenities include the fabulous ‘Mantles’ Restaurant and Bar, ski rental, health club, heated outdoor pool, hot tubs, fitness centre and sauna. Rooms are ideal for families with the option of interconnecting rooms.
It’s easy to stoke the fire (a.k.a. work up an appetite) while carving tracks on British Columbia terrain. And when skiers and boarders wrap a day’s play, they reward themselves with everything from family festivities to toast-worthy treats. Here are some of the best ways to soak up BC’s après atmosphere.
Skating is one of many family activities available in Whistler. Image: @ryanregehr via Instagram
Activity suited for all ages is a tall order, and British Columbia delivers.
In Whistler, après activity is an outdoor affair. Set in the Whistler Olympic Plaza, select evenings in the winter months feature Family Après, with everything from live entertainment and snowman-building competitions, to storytelling and tobogganing. Tip: check with a Village Host, as offerings change week to week.
At Sun Peaks Resort, Moonlight Snowshoe & S’mores tours explore the winter landscape overlooking the village, a sight illuminated by shimmering lights. The one-kilometre trek through the forest ends next to a campfire with freshly made, ooey-gooey treats and hot apple cider.
Ice climbing at Big White Ski Resort. Image: Big White Ski Resort
Big White Ski Resort’s Happy Valley Adventure Park is home to an 18-metre Ice Climbing Tower, geared for everyone from beginners to advanced ice pickers. To take it up a notch, book a twilight snowmobiling tour, and finish the evening with hot chocolate and marshmallows toasted over a bonfire.
SilverStar Mountain Resort’s outdoor skating rink. Photo: Blake Jorgenson
A hop, skip, and a schuss further north, SilverStar Mountain Resort offers the ultimate all-in-one experience with My1Pass. A flash of the pass guarantees all-inclusive lift tickets, plus sliding fun at the tube park, spins on the outdoor mountain pond, and snowshoe and cross-country treks through forests of fir. If you still have steam, look beyond pass inclusions, and opt for mini snowmobile rides, sleigh rides, dinner tours, and friendly competition at the only ski-in/ski-out bowling alley on the planet.
At Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, near Golden, families hit the newly redesigned Tube Zone. Head to the top, via the Jelly Bean surface lift, and hold on for a shriek-worthy downhill glide. Further south in Fernie, cool kids cruise on the snow in an entirely different way, thanks to mammoth-wheeled fat bikes. What’s in store? A low-gear ride easily mastered by first-timers and seasoned cyclists alike.
Some don’t-miss winter activities are as Canadian as beavers and maple syrup.
Gear up at Sun Peaks Resort, where après-ski activities include twirls on the resort’s NHL-sized outdoor skating rink. Public skating is standard fare, but so too are the drop-in hockey sessions that fine-tune skills.
Head to Apex, where you can lace up the skates on another NHL-sized hockey rink, a snowball’s throw from the village. For a change of scenery, bundle up for a glide along the resort’s skating loop, a one-kilometre stretch ablaze with white Christmas lights. The Zamboni-maintained pathway assures a smooth ride.
Curling? Check. Hockey? For sure. Revelstoke has you covered, thanks to Drop-in Curling every Friday night for just $5, courtesy of the Revelstoke Curling Club. If you want to cheer with beer, watch small-town Junior B hockey at its best at a Revelstoke Grizzlies home game.
In Kimberley, it’s tough to beat the serenity of the slopes during a snowshoe crunch. The Mountain Descent will get you there; a ride on the North Star Express to the front side of the mountain follows a winding, interpretive route back to the village base. Your reward: a homemade snack served with hot chocolate.
Going for a dip at Sun Peaks Resort. Image: Royce Sihlis
Dining at BC’s ski resorts doesn’t have to be just the standard fare.
On Whistler Mountain, post-ski indulgences are elevated. Steeps Grill & Wine Bar sets the scene for its Winemaker Après Series, featuring stellar reds and whites paired with local menus.
At Sun Peaks, the Fondue Dinner and Evening Descent combines outdoor adventure with culinary indulgence. A trip up the Sunburst Express chairlift to the Sunburst Mid Mountain Restaurant finishes with fondue backed by live music. Post-meal, take a headlamp cruise down 5 Mile, a ski run set aglow by lanterns.
Bacon and eggs? Big White’s Brunch Horse Drawn Sleigh Ride will satisfy early-morning cravings. Should you prefer an evening sleigh ride, Dinner & Sleigh Bells will transport you to a cabin in the woods for a chicken-and-ribs feast, courtesy of the Kettle Valley Steakhouse chefs.
Families work up an appetite at SilverStar Mountain Resort, thanks to a host of winter dinner tours. On offer: cross-country ski, or a snowcat or snowmobile journey to Paradise Camp. Or you can snuggle under a blanket on a horse-drawn sleigh ride en route to the Wild Horseman’s Cabin. Both destinations await mid-mountain, where you’ll raise your glass to local delicacies.
Kimberley Alpine Resort’s Kootenay Fondue promises a sweet reward. Here, the North Star Express will drop you at the top of the mountain; a gentle 30-minute snowshoe tour makes tracks to Kootenay House, where a decadent chocolate fondue awaits.
Panorama’s Elkhorn Cabin promises a delicious fondue experience. Image: Stephan Malette Photography
Elkhorn Cabin at Panorama Mountain Resort offers equally gooey options. Set midway down Panorama’s Rollercoaster run, the cabin serves up a Swiss raclette-style meal, where you’ll melt a cornucopia of cheese, and cook vegetables and meat on your own personal grill. It’s a tasty (albeit messy) indulgence that is amplified when served with local BC wines and craft beer.
Atop Panorama Mountain, the Summit Hut satisfies hungry crews with heli-fondue experiences. Helicopter to Panorama’s peak for a traditional cheese-and-chocolate menu, paired with BC vintages. At meal’s end, diners clip in for a scenic ski down to the village or return to the base by helicopter, bellies full.
Pulled pork nachos at Dusty’s are a favourite après-ski snack. Image: @ryanregehr via Instagram
Sometimes you need more than the heat of a bonfire to warm your fingers and toes. Where to start? Dance in your boots at the Garibaldi Lift Co. at Whistler Mountain’s base, line up a ski shot at Merlin’s Bar at neighbouring Blackcomb Mountain or sip a Caesar, the ultimate Canadian après beverage, at Dusty’s Bar & BBQ in Creekside.
The Gunbarrel Coffee, served up at Big White. Image: Big White Ski Resort
At Big White’s Moose Lounge, in BC’s Thompson Okanagan, live music, local menus, and libations come with free crafts and popcorn for the little ones. Nearby, bigger kids and coffee aficionados take it up a notch at the Gunbarrel Grill, where the resort’s famed Gunbarrel Coffee is on spirited display. Flaming Grand Marnier is poured down the double barrel of an unloaded shotgun straight into a waiting mug for cowboy coffee with a kick, y’all.
For a change of scenery, head south to Apex Mountain Resort. In the heart of the village, the resort’s famed Gunbarrel Saloon serves up nibbles alongside local craft beers and seasonal favourites, including its own version of a Grand Marnier Gunbarrel coffee—sure to thaw even hardcore skiers and boarders.
Further northeast, at Revelstoke Mountain Resort, locally brewed Begbie beer draws fans to the Mackenzie Common Tavern at the village base. Don’t like beer? Order an Ugly Sweater, the tavern’s signature cocktail. If the night’s still young, keep the party going at the Village Idiot Bar & Grill, a convivial ski-town watering hole known for its tasty menus and boisterous atmosphere.
Panorama Mountain Resort’s family-owned and -operated Earl Grey Lodge promises a new addition this season: the Smokehouse Cabin. An extension of Grey Restaurant, the cabin welcomes skiers and boarders for après treats, including smoked Canadian meats, along with vegetarian and gluten-free favourites.
Everything’s cool at Fernie’s Ice Bar. Image: Fernie Alpine Resort
Further southeast, the mood is chill at Fernie’s Lizard Creek Lodge. Here, the Ice Bar showcases Stoli vodka alongside vodkas from across the globe in a sub-zero tasting room, where enthusiasts, clad in Helly Hansen goose-down parkas, join the hotel’s resident vodka expert to sample the goods.
Listen to live music and order a pint of Rossland Beer Company’s finest at Rafter’s Lounge at RED Mountain Resort, in Rossland, further east. Nearby, in downtown Rossland, the Flying Steamshovel pairs local brews with friendly rivalry, be it a game of pool or a spirited round of Neglin, a traditional German game where participants furiously pound nails into a solid stump of wood.
Skip the competitive vibe and head to the cultural city of Nelson, where post-Whitewater après activity includes live jazz at the historic Library Lounge in the Hume Hotel. Established in 1898, the Hume is an excellent meeting place to shake off the winter chill, and enjoy a hearty meal at day’s end.
On Vancouver Island, locals meet and greet at Mount Washington Alpine Resort’s Ted’s Bar + Grill. A family favourite by day, the grill transforms when the sun sets, with brews, signature cocktails, and local pub fare backed by live entertainment.
By Carla Mont, Destination BC
If you would like more information on the best deals and the best places to experience stellar après in B.C, talk to the people who’ve been there!
Time to round up the kids and head for BC’s ski resorts. Here’s why you should hit the slopes this season on a family ski trip.
Photo: Sun Peaks Resort. The terrain at Sun Peaks is spread across three mountains.
Finding terrain that suits your family is easy when there are 13 major ski resorts and 10 mountain ranges across BC. Choose from powder steeps, groomed slopes, adventure parks, and easy starter hills.
For skiers and snowboarders looking for vertical and deep powder, the Powder Highway beckons with Panorama, RED, Whitewater, Fernie, Revelstoke, Kimberley, and Kicking Horse resorts scattered about southeast BC. For families seeking runs and activities for all ages, BC’s interior will feel like home. Big White, Sun Peaks, Apex, and SilverStar provide champagne powder, organized family activities, and a friendly Canadian atmosphere.
Skiing on the coast offers unique experiences too. Try night skiing above Vancouver’s lights at one of the cities three resorts—Grouse, Seymour, or Cypress—or head over to Vancouver Island and ski one of the snowiest resorts in BC at Mount Washington. Whistler Blackcomb has seen the likes of professional skiers and snowboarders over the years, but there are plenty of green runs and adventures to keep the little ones entertained too. A quest for the on-mountain Magic Castle and Tree Fort is always a family crowd-pleaser.
Not sure what you’re after? Most resorts offer free mountain tours that can help you find the slopes, trails, parks, and glades suited for you and your pack.
Mountainside accommodation and ski-in/ski-out villages are abundant at BC ski resorts. Almost all the lodging at Apex and SilverStar is ski-in/ski-out, for example. This means more time skiing and less time rounding up the troops. You can send the young ones off to ski school, leave the teens to sleep in, and take time for a parents-only après ski.
Other accommodation perks include connecting rooms, ski valet, swimming pools, in-house ski rentals, and village shuttles. If self-catering is more your style, independent chalets like the ones offered at Sun Peaks or the A-frame cabins at The Village at Red Mountain will do the trick. The Panorama Springs Pools offers slides, splash pads, hot tubs, and saunas to all Panorama lodging guests.
Dogsledding with Golden Dogsled Adventures. Photo: @brookewilson via Instagram
When your legs need a break from skiing, there is always another winter activity to try. Feel the crunch of snow underfoot on a snowshoe adventure, let a team of sled dogs guide you through the forest, or feel the rush of tubing down a mountain. Options at Whistler Blackcomb include soaring above a snow-covered rainforest on a zipline tour or bungee jumping over a rushing glacial river. If you prefer more power, try snowmobiling. SilverStar offers mini-snowmobiles that navigate a fenced track, so kids can join in the fun too.
For something a little different, climb an 18-metre (60-foot) ice tower at Big White or take a fat-tire bike through the snow in Fernie. Big White’s Kid’s Centre After Dark program offers different post-ski activities every day of the week, including tubing, a climbing wall, or game and craft nights.
Arriving to a cabin at Big White Ski Resort by sleigh. Photo: @marcjamesco via Instagram
Learning to ski at SilverStar Mountain Resort. Photo: Blake Jorgenson
Whether you’re an experienced skier or a first-timer, there are lessons to learn the basics, carve perfect turns, ski steeps, or ride the powder.
Beginners can choose from a private lesson or group class, and practise new skills in designated learning zones. To take the stress out of the morning ski routine, Big White offers a door-to-ski shuttle service to transport little ones from lodging to lessons, and back again. Sun Peaks’ Sports School offers lessons and camps for beginners, powder seekers, backcountry explorers, and more.
Advanced skiers can try steep skiing classes or take a private lesson with Extremely Canadian at Whistler Blackcomb. If you’ve dreamed of skiing with an Olympian, you can do that too. Both Whistler Blackcomb and Big White offer opportunities to learn tricks and tips from the professionals.
The 1 km (0.6 mi) skating loop at Apex Mountain Resort. Photo: _reveries via Instagram
Keep it Canadian and try the locals’ favourite winter pastime. Put on some skates and glide across the ice, or pick up a stick and play a game of hockey. Apex offers both options, a 1-kilometre skating loop and an NHL-sized hockey rink. Big White entices with an Olympic-sized outdoor rink, and at Whistler Village you can skate under dazzling festive lights.
Skating is one of many family activities available in Whistler. Image: @ryanregehr via Instagram
For a true Canadian winter experience, skate on a frozen lake in the middle of the forest. Brewer’s Pond at SilverStar is one place to do it. Skating is even more magical at night, whether it’s on a pond or rink.
By Leah Adams-Chute, Destination BC
If you would like more information on the best places to stay in BC with your family, or would like more information on the best deals available now, talk to the people who’ve been there!
Ahhh, the winter vacation.
You pack up your skis, boots, poles, and endless layers of clothing. With time on your side, you set out on your journey. And you have only one destination in mind – Sun Peaks.
Located in BC’s interior, just 45 minutes from Kamloops, Sun Peaks has the second largest ski area in Canada. It’s somewhere you’re guaranteed to feel alive as you race down the ski runs, through the gladed areas and back into the lively village.
And when you’re finished on the slopes, there are a ton of cool things happening throughout the resort that you can enjoy. It’s the kind of powder snow haven where you’ll have a blast, even if you’re not a fan of winter sports.
With that being said, we’ve compiled a list of 10 activities that you can do at Sun Peaks this season.
After the slopes have cleared and the mountains have fallen silent for the day, you’ll board the Sunburst Express chairlift for an exclusive twilight ride up to the newly renovated Sunburst Bar + Eatery mid-mountain restaurant. With your fellow diners, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the sunset down the valley, while darkness falls across the resort. Indulge in a delicious Swiss dining experience before going out to do a five-mile ski run glittering in the moonlight. This is a must-do activity at the resort!
Experience the awe and magic of the festive season by taking a ride in a horse-drawn sleigh. Sit back under the blankets and take in the sights and sounds of the village and surrounding area for a daylight, sunset, or evening tour. Guides take the tour through the village at a leisurely pace so you can listen to the clatter of hooves and ringing of sleigh bells before moving out to see majestic views of the valley and mountains.
Wrap up in your warm clothes and once you have rented a set of snowshoes, venture out on your own Sun Peaks adventure. Since there’s an extensive snowshoe trail system you’ll have plenty of space for discovering new, Instagram-worthy areas. You can also join a snowshoe tour if you’d prefer to be led by a knowledgeable mountain guide. Who knows, you might even see a snow cave, bird feeding station, and identify animal tracks along the way!
Another spectacular way that you can explore Sun Peaks backcountry is by joining a Mountain Man Dog Sled adventure. This exhilarating tour is something you’ll want to experience at least once as you’re taken on a magical trip through almost enchanted lands. Remember to wear gloves, mittens, a warm hat or a helmet for this sensational ride.
Take a ride in one of Sun Peaks’ Pisten Bully Snow Groomers and witness first-hand how they work their magic on the ski runs. Each ride is 45 minutes in length and there are two evening tours. Make sure you book your space early to avoid missing out on this epic ride.
Spend an afternoon or evening on a fully-guided ice fishing adventure with Elevated Fishing Adventures. This experience is ultimately Canadian and you’ll join local guide Campbell for a fishing session on a mountain lake where you’ll get to try your hand at catching a few of the hard-fighting and great tasting wild Rainbow Trout. Everything you need is included in the tour, even a heated ice fishing tent. All you have to do is sit back, take it all in, and wait for that big catch.
As soon as you arrive at Sun Peaks, one thing becomes apparent – you don’t have to be a certain age to have fun. And tubing is the perfect activity for all ages where you’re sure to laugh until your sides hurt.
Trampolines aren’t just for summer. You can bounce yourself merry at Sun Peaks throughout the whole season. The all-ages ride is located by the Village Day Lodge.
Sun Peaks is home to two fabulous spas, the first: Sun Peaks Massage and Spa, in the Kookaburra Lodge, is ideal for guests that want to dedicate more time to their treatments. It is centrally located and features large private rooms. Those looking for a quick pick-me-up can head to the Sun Peaks Spa Express, located in the Grand Residences. The Spa Express features Hydro Massage Beds, mini-manicures and express facials to name a few.
Tip: Unsure about the best time to go? Spa Express allows walk-in appointments for last minute pampering.
If you’re a thrill seeker you’re going to want to try snowmobiling at Sun Peaks. The tours take you on a ride through the backcountry where you’ll get to ride on trails, past open frozen lakes, and clear meadows. Plus, you’ll get to take in the stunning views of the Thompson Nicola region, too. The question is, can you handle a two or four-hour tour? If you sign up for the nightly wiener roast, you’ll get to complete your evening with a campfire cookout at the McGillivray Lake cabin.
Other things to do:
There’s also a wide range of date-specific events happening at Sun Peaks throughout the season that you don’t want to miss, from the annual Sun Peaks Winter Okanagan Wine Festival to Snowbombing Canada, and much more.
So for more information on Sun Peaks skiing, activities or fabulous deals, talk to the people who’ve been there!
Dreaming of somewhere magical, memorable and envy-arousing to take the family this Christmas? A white Christmas ski holiday in the US or Canada ticks all those boxes.
Imagine snow-blanketed streets of Christmas lights, music and decorations. Dining on a bevy of winter activities, festive events and mouthwatering Christmas foods. Not to mention, meeting Santa in his natural habitat, instead of an air-conditioned shopping mall.
Plus, ski and boarding adventures for every age and skill level. Or no skill level at all!
Here are five North American resorts made-to-order for a family Christmas ski holiday you’ll never forget.
Mountains of Festive Fun
If you want festivities and lots of them, then North America’s largest resort delivers in spades, serving up a staggering concoction of fun, adventure and on-slope action.
Over Christmas, Whistler village becomes a surreal world of festive street lights and Christmas carols floating from shops and restaurants out into the streets and up the moonlit silhouettes of Blackcomb and Whistler Mountain. It’s mesmerising.
What’s on at Christmas?
On the snow Whistler offers:
How much snow?
With abundant natural snow and snow cannons ready for action when needed, Whistler has one of the longest seasons in Canada.
White Christmas Bucket List
‘White Christmas in Aspen’ sits on many people’s bucket list with four unique resorts and an array of festive après fun to be had. At Aspen, you get to bask in big ski village dining, shopping and entertainment splendour, topped with a generous serving of small-town America white Christmas romance.
What’s on at Christmas?
Ski 4 resorts for the price of 1
There’s as much action on the slopes as there is in the village with free shuttle access and lift-passes for all four mountains on one ticket. That means you can stick to one mountain you’re comfortable with, or unwrap a new experience every day:
How much snow?
With the choice of 4 high altitude mountains & expert snowmaking, Aspen Snowmass is very snow reliable in December.
Picture-perfect Winter Wonderland
SilverStar is a life-size snow globe village tucked high in the Rockies. Over the festive season, the pine trees and brightly coloured Victorian-era buildings along main street sparkle in lights, creating a friendly and magical mood. Especially during the 12 Days of Christmas celebrations.
And just wait until you see the backyard – over 3,000 skiable acres of pure white fun for adults and kids of all ages to explore!
What’s on at Christmas?
On the snow Silver Star offers:
How much snow?
Wild & Majestic Christmas
If there’s one ski region in the world that travel shows, writers and marketers should be forgiven for describing with OTT clichés, it’s Banff and Lake Louise. This really is a majestic mecca of monumental magnificence.
With its small-town charm, film-set scenery, crowd-pleasing ski options, Big Foot folklore, Christmas castle and consommé of outdoor action, you have all the ingredients for a holiday your clan will rave about for years.
What’s on at Christmas?
Don’t miss ‘Christmas at the Castle’
Every year, the beautiful, historic Fairmont Banff Springs blends the traditional sights and sounds of Christmas into a one of-a-kind celebration, including:
On the snow Banff National Park offers:
Ski three resorts on a tri-area lift pass.
How much snow?
In Banff National Park winter bites early & delivers consistent early-season snow.
Powder Christmas
Packing a combination of natural beauty, Main Street frivolity and the largest ski terrain anywhere in the USA, some call Park City, ‘The best place for Christmas skiing, period”.
Many skiing families would agree. A breezy 45-minute drive from Salt Lake City airport, you get to play on three distinctly flavoured resorts and keep the kids entertained in one of the best thought-out and managed children’s ski programs anywhere in the world.
What’s on at Christmas?
On the snow, Park City Mountain Resort offers:
How much snow?
On average, 77% of Park City’s massive 7,300 acres of terrain is open by Christmas.
Christmas is such a beautiful time to visit the North American ski fields, and even more so with the people who mean most to you in the world. And, while these are just some of our favourites, every ski resort goes out of their way to make the festive season a special experience.
If there’s something particular that you’re looking for, or you need some expert advice, talk to the team who’ve been there. We’re here to make your family ski trip a truly merry one.
Keen for a challenge on your next ski or snowboard holiday?
If you’re advanced or expert level, there’s a time for gentle cruising with beginner and intermediate family and friends. And then there’s a time to wave bye-bye as you venture up the mountain to put your skills to the test (with a dash of courage and possibly an equal shot of Schnapps).
Whether it’s hurtling down black runs, weaving through trees, riding mogul bumps or exploring the backcountry, there’s no reason it can’t be part of your next snow holiday experience.
So, here are six of our favourite resorts across the US, Canada and Japan that cater to all levels and ages – but serve up a veritable feast of steep and deep adventures for advanced and expert skiers and borders.
Jackson Hole ‘The Big One’ is renowned for advanced and expert skiers, overflowing with black and double black diamonds, backcountry gates, cliffs, trees, groomers, bowls, chutes and one very famous couloir.
To unlock many of these fantastic options take Big Red a.k.a the 9-minute Aerial Tram ride to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain.
From here you can:
The Thunder chair offers lots of north-facing powder fun through the trees at:
And you’ll fall for (but hopefully not down) the amazing variety of Black diamond delights, such:
Of course, we can’t mention Jackson Hole adrenaline-shots without a shout-out to the world famous, Double Black, Corbet’s Couloir.
Many a curious thrill-seeker has nervously peered down the 30-foot drop into the keyhole entrance of this thin, steep, sliver of a run. About half take the plunge. Even if you don’t take the challenge, it’s worth a look and selfie.
For the other skiers
While around 50% of Jackson Hole terrain is for advanced skiers, there’s plenty of slope action to gibe less experienced friends and family a taste of big mountain skiing too with 40% intermediate & 10% beginner runs.
Après Vous Mountain is great choice for smooth, wide, cruisy groomers, the chance to try low-risk tree skiing and some amazing views of the valley.
Blue Powder Travel consultant, Mick says “There are so many great black runs to choose from. You could spend all day on different runs from top to bottom, while the kids are having a great time on blue runs and beginners”
In 1984, ski film legend Warren Miller shot Scot Schmidt jumping 100ft from Squaw Valley’s Palisades cliffs, giving birth to US extreme skiing, and a new term for the crazy, Schmidiots.
An abundance of steep bowls, chutes and cliffs makes Squaw Valley a mecca for expert skiers.
However, with over 12m of snow per year, an excellent lift system, stellar cruisers, 25% beginner terrain and jaw-dropping Lake Tahoe views, you don’t need to be an adrenalin junkie to crush on Squaw. We love:
For the other skiers
Shirley Lake Express chairlift is great for intermediates with perfect cruisers, lots of sunshine and very few of the Squallywood extreme crowd. Squaw also splits intermediate runs into “more difficult” and “most difficult”.
Plus, there’s mountain-top ice skating and swimming at the Swimming Lagoon & Spa at High Camp overlooking Lake Tahoe, free with daily lift tickets.
• Average snowfall = 12m
• Total inbounds terrain = 3,600 acres
• Top elevation = 2,758m
• Bottom elevation = 1,889m
• Total vertical drop = 868m
• Trails = 170+
• Lifts = 30
Over the past decade, Telluride resort has been tempting advanced skiers and boarders to its beautifully transformed 1800’s mining town, cosy village and breathtaking slopes, by upgrading its facilities and opening new terrain.
Two hundred years ago, Telluride (To Hell You Ride) earned its name for the treacherous trip getting here. Today, it’s an adventure playground for all ages, experience levels and snow holiday interests.
That includes enough devilishly exciting advanced and expert options to keep you out mischief for days, such as the:
For the other skiers
They’ll be in rapture over the easy access to gentle beginner runs, meandering blue cruisers and green runs amongst the trees. And even beginners can take the lift up to the top for the views and a ski all the way back down for warm drinks.
Blue Powder Travel consultant, Mick says; “The terrain is crazy here – so much variety it keeps everyone happy! Plus I love the mix of the two towns and all the different experiences you can have – authentic Western Telluride and ritzy alpine Mountain village.”
Whistler Blackcomb
Whether you’re sampling Whistler’s eclectic snow action, sipping coffee, swilling cocktails or savouring a fabulous meal, there’s always a common denominator…fun.
The people at SKI Magazine agree. They’ve voted Canada’s favourite ski holiday destination ‘No.1 best overall ski resort in North America’ three years in a row.
Even better, 25% of the jaw-dropping 8000 acres of skiable terrain is set aside for advanced skiers and boarders.
A sample of the many highlights include:
For the other skiers
With 25% beginner terrain, 50% intermediate and one of the best ski schools in the world, there’s no reason to feel guilty as you disappear up into the whites of Whistler to satisfy your need for speed, drops, turns and space.
Blue Powder Travel consultant, Mick says; “For a different adrenaline rush, head to the Olympic Bob Sled Centre to experience epic bobsledding or skeleton!“
Revelstoke
This former BC logging town is a magnet for skiers and snowboarders with a serious powder addiction. A sample of Revelstoke’s natural and man-made gifts include:
Specials on the adrenalin menu include:
For the other skiers
With a new beginner area and over 45% intermediate terrain, everyone’s wearing happy faces at Revelstoke.
The Last Spike is an easy green run you could all do together. It winds down the front side of the mountain offering some of the most spectacular views of the valley and mountain range.
Blue Powder Travel consultant, Mick says “If you eat, sleep and breathe snow sports, Revelstoke may well be your spirit animal resort.”
Hakuba
Japan is not renowned for its steep terrain so when we mention Hakuba, most advanced skiers picture deep champagne powder rather than steep heart-palpitating drops. However, eyes soon light up when they fathom everything on the banquet at Japan’s largest ski destination:
In other words, an assortment advanced and expert adventures as delicious as the Raman scents wafting from the restaurants and izakayas that line the resort village streets once your day on the mountain is done.
Some of the most exciting places to test your ski ninja skills include:
For the other skiers
Along with great English speaking ski school facilities, 30% of the terrain is designed for beginners and 40% for intermediates, including long groomers and wide runs.
Hakuba 47 has an amazing 6.5km-long forest run from the summit where beginners can enjoy the view too.
One of the best things about holidays at modern ski resorts is the variety of terrain available for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
So, whether everyone in your party is ready for steep and deep, or some of them have never put boot to snow, there’s no reason a healthy dose of adrenaline can’t be part of your next ski holiday experience. For any further information on where the right destination is for you, talk to the people who’ve been there!
The Epic & IKON passes for the 2019/20 season have been released and both are bigger and better than ever, offering a host of exciting new areas to conquer. And, now you can truly maximise their value and ski year round with both passes offering some fantastic Northern and Southern hemisphere additions. Plus if you ski/board 5 days or more in a year then they pay for themselves.
However, with so many destinations and conditions, it can be a little daunting choosing the pass that is right for your next great ski adventure/s. So hopefully we’ve made it a little easier for you by comparing the four main passes, available to Australians, on price, destination and their various inclusions and exclusions.
So, which one works best for you?
If you would like to find out more or purchase the Epic Pass, IKON Pass or IKON Base Pass then talk to the people who’ve been there!
The POWDER HIGHWAY® is the road of skiers’ dreams and an iconic Canadian experience. Eight resorts, 26 heli- and cat-ski operators, almost two dozen backcountry lodges, and quaint mountain towns populate this area of the British Columbia Kootenay Rockies. The route may seem daunting, but you can explore in sections, a few resorts at a time. That just means you’ll have an excuse to come back.
And for Australians living this adventure is easy – take a direct flight into Vancouver then a quick 75min flight into Calgary and hire a car for your own POWDER HIGHWAY® adventure.
Canada’s newest ski resort, Revelstoke Mountain Resort has North America’s greatest vertical at 1,713m and advanced skiers are drawn to the resort’s long, steep runs and deep powder. 3,121 acres of terrain and about 10m of snow annually, it is a big mountain enthusiast’s dream come true. At over 15 km in length, the resort also boasts the longest ski run in North America. Spend a few days here working on your turns, and build up the courage to give one of the most challenging trails on this mountain—Kill The Banker—a run for its money. For anyone looking for an even deeper experience, they also offer small group, single-day cat-ski experiences. Want to get even higher? Hop in a helicopter for a single-day heli-ski experience.
As you head east, the mountain town of Golden is the perfect powder seeker’s paradise. Home to Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, known as the ‘Champagne Powder Capital of Canada’ with 2,800 acres of skiable terrain, 121 runs, four bowls, countless chutes and 1,260 m of vertical (fourth highest in North America), this resort attracts adventurous skiers. Most of the trails are designated black or double-black runs, which means it’s a good place to push your boundaries and test your skills. The resort also offers a tubing park, skating rink and numerous restaurants – including the Eagle’s Eye Restaurant (with overnight accommodation), located at the top of the Gondola and is Canada’s highest elevated dining experience.
Just south is super convenient Panorama Mountain Resort with its intimate pedestrian village and 100% ski-in/ski-out accommodation. Surrounded by 3,000m peaks, this resort offers spectacular views, and all Panorama lodging guests can access the slopeside hot pools where you can relax après-ski.
75% of Panorama’s runs are beginner/intermediate and the new terrain-based learning slopes in the Discovery Zone offer beginner to intermediate skiers an outstanding learning environment and fun animation on the slopes for children. And if black is more your scene, glide down endless, meandering, corduroy cruisers, or tackle the 750 acres of ex-heli-skiing paradise, Taynton Bowl. Drop into the Extreme Dream Zone for adventurous tree runs, check out the newly expanded ‘Where the Wild Things Are’ wild & steep runs or heli-ski through 1500 sq km of spectacular terrain in the Purcell Mountains.
Also tucked along this southern route is Kimberley Alpine Resort. This mountain town has it all—great skiing, friendly locals, and views of peaks in all directions. It’s renowned for consistent snowfalls and light fluffy ‘Purcell’ powder, short lift lines, and an abundance of sunny days. It’s a great choice for both families and experts, with terrain for all levels. The mountain offers everything from wide-open groomed runs, powder stashes, adventurous steeps and beautiful views.
Serious powderhounds make the trek to the southeastern corner of BC to ski at Fernie Alpine Resort. Up to 11 metres of snow blankets this resort each year, ranking it among the snowiest ski destinations in Canada. With over 2,500 acres of skiable terrain, 107 runs, 5 alpine bowls, state-of-the-art snowmaking and grooming equipment, and an exceptional beginner’s area, Fernie is a true winter playground. Discover what a great winter vacation to the Canadian Rockies is all about – huge alpine bowls and uncrowded trails. With a mild but snowfall-heavy climate, the weather won’t send many chills down your spine, but the scenery and incredible skiing will.
Otherwise, head west and tackle more of the Powder Highway. You’ll eventually hit Whitewater Ski Resort, a place with a very local feel that sits just outside the eclectic town of Nelson. Over 12 m of snow falls each season on 620 vertical metres of uncrowded slopes of family-friendly groomers and bumps, remarkable steeps, top-of-the-line tree-skiing and endless backcountry. Whitewater is best described by its tagline. Pure, simple and real … DEEP.
Last stop? Head for the tiny town of Rossland and Red Mountain Resort. This is the kind of ski resort you fall in love with right away and the kind of mountain town you never want to leave. Perched above the town, the resort is surprisingly big with 2,877 lift-serviced acres, almost 900 m of vertical, 110 runs, seven lifts, and 360-degree descents. The kicker? You can try in-bounds cat-skiing for just $10.
Iconic resorts of the Canadian Rockies including Fernie Alpine Resort, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort and Kimberley have joined the Epic Pass! This entitles you to 7 days skiing (with no blackout dates) and discounted lift tickets thereafter. As well as unlimited and unrestricted skiing at Whistler, Heavenly, Park City, Perisher (2019) and many more! Check out our blog on The 2018/19 Epic Pass Uncovered.
For more information, The Blue Powder team have years of first-hand experience skiing these fantastic resorts. So, if you’d like some advice, recommendations and help planning an epic once-in-a-lifetime trip along the BC POWDER HIGHWAY®, get in touch with us today.
Just 15 minutes by road from Aspen (North America’s No.1 voted après ski destination) is her equally beautiful sibling, Snowmass. But while Aspen likes to stay out partying every night, Snowmass prefers spending time with families and entertaining the kids.
It’s the biggest resort of the four in this area with runs from absolute beginner through green, blue, black and double black challenges. And because extreme skiers tend to stick to Aspen and the Highlands, Snowmass slopes always have a relaxed, friendly and uncompetitive feel. It offers something for all the family.
You’ll love:
STEAMBOAT, COLORADO
Like the idea of a wild west ski holiday experience amongst cowboys, horses and friendly locals aplenty? Then ya’ll saddle up and ride for Steamboat, a 4-hour transfer from Denver.
With generous kid’s ski programs and free ski deals – plus lots of on-ski and non-ski activities for all ages – Steamboat has earned its stars and stripes as one of America’s favourite family snow holiday resorts.
You’ll love the:
NORTHSTAR, CALIFORNIA
If you like the idea of a lesser-known ski holiday destination then you’ll love the enchanting, high-end village of Northstar, Lake Tahoe. This compact resort’s blend of California-calm vibe, alpine village panache and on-mountain exhilaration gives it a sophisticated European feel – just an hour from Reno Airport (RNO) or 10 minutes from Truckee (KTRK).
With its brilliant beginner’s area, stunning groomed slopes and thrill-a-second advanced tracks through redwood forests, there are plenty of ways for everyone in the family to turn up the fun dial, whether they’re learners or experts.
You’ll love the:
If Willie Wonka created a ski resort, it would probably look a lot like Whistler. Not only is the setting fantastical, so is the variety of fun and adventure awaiting kids of every era.
And if you love the idea of being able to taste and gorge on everything, easily and conveniently located, then Whistler is your chocolate factory.
You’ll love:
PANORAMA, BC
Panorama is a ski holiday gem that the locals would keep to themselves, if only they weren’t so friendly and inviting to visitors – especially families. The compact and cosy pedestrian village has all the dining, shopping and entertainment options you need.
The best part for families is that 75% of the resort is dedicated to beginner and intermediate skiers. At the same time, advanced skiers can find plenty of hold-your-breath excitement amongst the 1,100 hectares of skiable terrain.
You’ll love:
BIG WHITE, BC
From the champagne powder slopes to Canada’s largest ski-in, ski-out, ski-through village with pedestrian walkway, Big White knows what mums and dads crave from a family ski resort.
Providing mountain runs to suit all levels and abilities and as one of the best value family resorts around, Big White was always a sure thing for our Canadian list. Ski Canada Magazine agreed in 2016, naming it the country’s ‘Best Family Resort’.
You’ll love:
SUN PEAKS, BC
Everything about this charming and intimate ski-through village has been carefully planned to ensure families feel right at home. From the pristine ski conditions for all ages and levels to the array of après experiences, Sun Peaks is teeming with Kodak and Instagram moments.
You’ll love the:
Family ski holidays are precious moments. Being able leave behind life’s distractions to share time together in a beautiful part of the world, all doing something you love and sharing stories at the end of the day is a special experience.
The Blue Powder team have years of first-hand experience skiing and working at resorts all across North America. So, if you’d like some advice, recommendations and help planning a magical family trip in 2019/20, get in touch with us today.
Enjoy 7 nights at Sundance Resort during Masters Week for $3,445 per/person! Includes transfers, flights, lift passes and Masters Program!
Price is based on 2 adults, for travel Session 1 January 27-31 January. Prices on request for other sessions
At Sundance Resort, with spectacular views of the Monashee Mountains, you can ski from your front door to the Bullet Express…it’s one of the best ski in/ski out locations on the mountain! Boasting a heated outdoor pool, hot tubs, fireside lounge, kids’ room, steam room, fitness centre and the Sundance movie theatre, all guarantee a fabulous time when you’re not on the snow at Big White!
Big White’s renowned Masters’ Week program for skiers 50+ is on offer again for the 2020 season!
The incredibly popular Masters’ Weeks are designed specifically with passionate skiers aged 50 years and over in mind. Masters’ Week evolved from the well-established Masters’ Monday program. It combines the best skiing Big White has to offer, while you learn from some of the top ski instructors in B.C each morning, with a number of exclusive après events and other optional activities.
There are three sessions available, Masters of ALL skiing abilities can enjoy all that Okanagan has to offer, from unbelievable Champagne Powder to the convenience and luxury of Big White’s slopeside accommodations.
Masters’ Week Dates 2020
Session 1: January 27 – 31, 2020
Session 2: February 24 – 28, 2020
Session 3: March 30 – April 3, 2020
The program includes 5 x half day lessons, plus complimentary added extras and exclusive après activities. Masters’ week is an event not to be missed!
Be quick, limited availability!!!!!!!
Delta Hotels Whistler Village Suites is situated in the heart of Whistler Village, just steps away from world class skiing, shopping, dining and so much more. Spacious, beautifully appointed resort suites offer first-rate amenities including a full kitchen, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, Guest room entertainment featuring 55” Smart TV’s, a gas fireplace and an in-suite washer and dryer. Unwind by the heated outdoor pool with indoor access, work out at our 24 hour fitness center or indulge in mouthwatering fare at either one of our on-property restaurants
If you need further information or help on any of the above:
Already dreaming of a winter 2019/20 snow holiday on the powdered slopes of the USA, Canada, Japan or Europe?
If you love your skiing and snowboarding, those spectacular images are not just good for the soul.
Booking ski holidays now for travel late this year – all the way through to April next year – ensures you get the pick of the dates, resorts and accommodation – and potentially save thousands in the process.
And so, here are five great reasons to turn, “We’re thinking about going skiing overseas” into “We’re booked!” as soon as possible.
1. Early Bird Deals are Available…For Now
Excited ski holiday regulars wait for the release of Early Bird deals with frosted breath because they can literally slash hundreds, or even thousands, off a ski trip.
Early Bird deals vary but, in a nutshell, they include:
And usually one or more of the following, or often bundled together:
For example, Whistler, Panorama and Aspen Snowmass are currently offering up to 30-50% off accommodation – that won’t last!
The important thing to remember is that the earlier the bird, the juicier the worm. In other words, the sooner you book, the cheaper the price and more options available.
That’s why, for example:
2. Only Pay 25% Upfront
We get it. There’s a lot of life to live and pay for between now and the end of the year. Especially if you have a family.
That’s the beauty of booking early in the year through Blue Powder Travel.
We only need a 25% deposit to lock in your 2019/20 season ski holiday. That covers your flights, accommodation and anything included in the package.
The only time you may need to pay more is if your Early Bird deal or flights have special conditions such as payment in full by a certain date, etc. But when you weigh up the thousands you can save by booking early, it’s usually well worth the commitment.
You only need to pay the balance up to 60 days prior to your departure date. Considering that’s well and truly after the end of the financial year, your holiday may be courtesy of the Tax Department!
3. Lock in Dates that You (and Everyone Else) Wants
Being Australian, there’s something magical about a winter wonderland holiday at a beautiful mountain ski resort in another country.
That’s why, by the end of April, international ski resorts are close to booked out for:
You also need to get in very early if you travel during local holidays, such as:
By booking early you’ve got the best chance of securing an amazing experience for you and your family, partner or besties.
4. Enjoy the Best Choice of Accommodation and Activities
Want the convenience and ease of a ski/in ski/out condo right on the slopes?
Need to keep the kids entertained with ski lessons?
Planning a get together with family/friends at the hottest new restaurant in town?
Booking early greatly improves your chances of securing items on your must-have list (room numbers and bedding, dates, ski lessons, etc) and bucket-list (preferred accommodation, limited availability activities such as heli-skiing, dining, tours, etc).
There are few feelings better than being able to tell your family and envious friends about your ski holiday plans months in advance. And few things more stressful and disappointing than being stuck on a waitlist or missing out completely.
5. And Finally…Your Reward Awaits
Possibly the best reason for booking early is knowing you have a fantastic holiday with your favourite people waiting as a reward for surviving 2019!
So, when things get tough, you can just sit back, smile and picture yourself basking in the fun of those powder white slopes and après ski delights, thousands of miles from a care in the world.
Booking ski holidays for the 2019/20 season now offers some enormous benefits. Not only are you far more likely to enjoy the dream holiday you’ve imagined, you’ll save a whole lot of money, stress and potential disappointment too.
Ready to find out about Early Bird deals for 2019/20? Speak to one of our Blue Powder ski specialists today!
Already dreaming of a winter 2019/20 snow holiday on the powdered slopes of the USA, Canada, Japan or Europe?
If you love your skiing and snowboarding, those spectacular images are not just good for the soul.
Booking ski holidays now for travel late this year – all the way through to April next year – ensures you get the pick of the dates, resorts and accommodation – and potentially save thousands in the process.
And so, here are five great reasons to turn, “We’re thinking about going skiing overseas” into “We’re booked!” as soon as possible.
1. Early Bird Deals are Available…For Now
Excited ski holiday regulars wait for the release of Early Bird deals with frosted breath because they can literally slash hundreds, or even thousands, off a ski trip.
Early Bird deals vary but, in a nutshell, they include:
And usually one or more of the following, or often bundled together:
For example, Whistler, Panorama and Aspen Snowmass are currently offering up to 30-50% off accommodation – that won’t last!
The important thing to remember is that the earlier the bird, the juicier the worm. In other words, the sooner you book, the cheaper the price and more options available.
That’s why, for example:
2. Only Pay 25% Upfront
We get it. There’s a lot of life to live and pay for between now and the end of the year. Especially if you have a family.
That’s the beauty of booking early in the year through Blue Powder Travel.
We only need a 25% deposit to lock in your 2019/20 season ski holiday. That covers your flights, accommodation and anything included in the package.
The only time you may need to pay more is if your Early Bird deal or flights have special conditions such as payment in full by a certain date, etc. But when you weigh up the thousands you can save by booking early, it’s usually well worth the commitment.
You only need to pay the balance up to 60 days prior to your departure date. Considering that’s well and truly after the end of the financial year, your holiday may be courtesy of the Tax Department!
3. Lock in Dates that You (and Everyone Else) Wants
Being Australian, there’s something magical about a winter wonderland holiday at a beautiful mountain ski resort in another country.
That’s why, by the end of April, international ski resorts are close to booked out for:
You also need to get in very early if you travel during local holidays, such as:
By booking early you’ve got the best chance of securing an amazing experience for you and your family, partner or besties.
4. Enjoy the Best Choice of Accommodation and Activities
Want the convenience and ease of a ski/in ski/out condo right on the slopes?
Need to keep the kids entertained with ski lessons?
Planning a get together with family/friends at the hottest new restaurant in town?
Booking early greatly improves your chances of securing items on your must-have list (room numbers and bedding, dates, ski lessons, etc) and bucket-list (preferred accommodation, limited availability activities such as heli-skiing, dining, tours, etc).
There are few feelings better than being able to tell your family and envious friends about your ski holiday plans months in advance. And few things more stressful and disappointing than being stuck on a waitlist or missing out completely.
5. And Finally…Your Reward Awaits
Possibly the best reason for booking early is knowing you have a fantastic holiday with your favourite people waiting as a reward for surviving 2019!
So, when things get tough, you can just sit back, smile and picture yourself basking in the fun of those powder white slopes and après ski delights, thousands of miles from a care in the world.
Booking ski holidays for the 2019/20 season now offers some enormous benefits. Not only are you far more likely to enjoy the dream holiday you’ve imagined, you’ll save a whole lot of money, stress and potential disappointment too.
Ready to find out about Early Bird deals for 2019/20? Speak to one of our Blue Powder ski specialists today!
After debuting in January 2018, the Ikon Pass enters its second season unlocking access to 81,667 acres of some of the world’s best ski terrain in 38 global destinations across Australia, NZ, Japan, North America & Chile.
And as with the Epic Pass, you don’t have to ski long to see it’s value – if you ski/board 5 days or more in a season then the IKON Pass pays for itself!
So with it’s release, we’ve compared the 2 major IKON passes below – the IKON Pass and the (cheaper but with restrictions) IKON Base Pass to see which pass works best for you.
So, what’s included in the IKON pass:
UNRESTRICTED ACCESS (UNLIMITED, NO RESTRICTION DATES):
7 DAY ACCESS (NO RESTRICTION DATES):
Additional benefits include:
This price is available for a limited time, don’t miss out!
Or for a pass that has the same destinations but with holiday blackout periods (and a cheaper price tag!) check-out the inclusions in the IKON Base Pass:
UNRESTRICTED ACCESS (UNLIMITED, NO RESTRICTION DATES):
UNLIMITED ACCESS WITH BLACKOUT DATES:
5 DAY ACCESS WITH NO BLACKOUT DATES:
5 DAY ACCESS WITH BLACKOUT DATES:
Additional benefits include:
Northern Hemisphere: Dec. 26-31, 2019; Jan. 18-19, 2020; Feb. 15-16, 2020. Southern Hemisphere: July 4-19, 2020 (Thredbo only)
To purchase the IKON Pass or to find out more about our great Early Bird deals on flights, accommodation or rentals, talk to the people who’ve been there!
Want to ski year-round with access to 67 resorts across 8 countries and 4 continents? The 2019/20 Epic Pass has just been released and provides unlimited access to even more resorts including firm favourites such as Whistler Blackcomb, Vail and Perisher but also new for the 19/20 season – Rusutsu in Japan, Sun Valley in Idaho and Snowbasin in Utah!
And it’s one of the best value passes around – if you ski/board 5 days or more in a season then the Epic Pass pays for itself!
UNRESTRICTED ACCESS (UNLIMITED, NO RESTRICTION DATES):
Note, when using this pass in Australia it must be validated at the resort’s ticketing office first before using it on the slopes.
PARTNER ACCESS (LIMITED ACCESS, NO RESTRICTION DATES):
Additional benefits include:
NB: Buddy Tickets are discounted tickets that stay the same price all season long. S-W-A-F tickets are discounted from the window ticket price, and fluctuate throughout the season
This price is available for a limited time, don’t miss out!
So, that’s all well and good but how does it compare to the other major pass available to Australians – the Epic Australia Pass?
The 2019/20 Epic Australia Pass is an Australian season pass for Perisher and provides access to 25 international resorts.
PRIMARY ACCESS (NO RESTRICTION DATES):
PARTNER ACCESS FOR ’19/2020 SEASON (HOLIDAY RESTRICTION DATES APPLY*):
Additional benefits include discounted ski-with-a-friend tickets at Perisher plus exclusive benefits at Perisher including accommodation, Skitube, rental and food and beverage discounts.
*Holiday Restriction Dates: 29 – 30 November 2019, 19 – 31 December 2019, 18 January 2020, 15 – 16 February 2020, 7, 14, 21 March 2020.
Note, to be valid in Northern Hemisphere destinations, you must have used the pass first in Australia.
You can buy the Epic Australia Pass here.
To purchase the Epic Pass or to find out more about our great Early Bird deals on flights, accommodation or rentals,
Basking in 274 sunny days and America’s longest ski season, oozing relaxed, adventurous and friendly California charm, North Lake Tahoe is the laid-back alternative to big, crowded Rockies resorts, especially during Spring. It offers something for all ages and abilities and promotes equal opportunity for skiers and boarders alike! It boasts a ski season that keeps on giving – from late Oct to May/June (or July 4 in 2017!) and with 12 resorts, North Lake Tahoe is the largest combined ski playground in North America!
And the two jewels in the North Lake Tahoe crown would have to be family favoured, Northstar, and the advanced skier paradise of Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows.
Insider Tip, Mick from Blue Powder says: “North Lake Tahoe is a fantastic destination whether it’s a 100% ski holiday, or you add some wine tasting in the Napa Valley, driving the California coast or exploring San Fran or LA on the way”.
For a mix of laid-back and luxury ski holiday, it’s impossible to go past Northstar.
With its amazing skiing, accommodation options, gorgeous village at the foot of the mountain, and range of off-ski adventures and entertainment, the resort is guaranteed a nomination in your favourite family holiday category for years to come.
From the shopping, dining and accommodation to the incredible on-slope fun for every level and age, there’s a lot to love about Lake Tahoe’s premier luxury snow sports destination.
Insider Tip, Mick from Blue Powder says: “Take the whole family for a run down the 2km Logger’s Leap. And try the mile-long runs on the back of the mountain where there are no lift lines.”
The Best Things about Skiing Northstar:
Unique Snow and (Champagne) Experiences
Adventure Guiding and Learning Centre
Platinum Season and Day Pass Holders enjoy:
Burton Snowboard Academy
Insider Tip, Mick from Blue Powder says:“The wagons at Northstar are life-savers for families. You can load your skis, boots, extra layers, coats onboard and pull it to the locker area then straight to the gondola.”
Because You’re Worth It
Kids fun
Insider Tip, Mick from Blue Powder says:“Make sure your kids are in town after ski school when S’mores Time descends upon the village with chocolate and marshmallow treats”
Lounging on the edge of turquoise coloured Lake Tahoe, beneath the towering Sierra Nevada peaks, Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows has been a North American winter favourite since hosting the 1960 Winter Games.
And while it’s swooning fans include many former and hopeful Olympians, it’s not just an expert’s paradise.
‘North America’s Spring Skiing Capital’ offers incredibly diverse on-slope adventures to advanced level couples, families and groups. But there’s also plenty for intermediates, beginners and non-skiers to love and explore in this stunning, powder white corner of California.
The Best Things about Skiing Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows:
Insider Tip, Mick from Blue Powder says:“Squaw and Alpine Meadows is one of the best ski areas in North America. It’s a very European experience with lots of good challenging skiing for advanced skiers.”
Family adventures
Village
Insider Tip, Mick from Blue Powder says:“Make the most of the great Squaw après-ski scene. And in Alpine Meadows, head to the Last Chair and look after a friend on the ‘Pay It Forward’ drinking board”
Whether you choose to stay in Northstar or Squaw/Alpine Meadows, North Lake Tahoe has some of North America’s best events on the winter wonderland calendar, such as:
Getting there
High in the snowy peaks of British Columbia reclines the very laid-back and friendly SilverStar ski resort. Dressed in vibrant coloured Victorian buildings and a white sea of snow coated ghost trees, it almost looks like you’ve stepped into a Hans Christian Anderson story.
No, SilverStar isn’t the resort skiers and boarders flock to for wild après nightlife. Instead, it’s the place they keep coming back to for its enchanting combination of little town charm and big powder mountain delights.
What You’ll Love About SilverStar:
SilverStar has four unique mountain faces offering 1,328 ha of skiable terrain. This includes the terrain close to the village that’s ideal for fun and relaxed learning. But don’t let this genteel introduction pull the balaclava over your eyes.
Intermediate skiers and boarders are lavished in choice, from long blue cruiser runs to Rockstar Park adventures and more.
While over the mountain, advanced and expert skiers can take on an abundance of steep and deep, thrill-a-second, black and double black diamonds.
Along with access to all the mountain action and Nordic trails, you can use it to:
In addition to all the fun listed above you’ll want to make time for:
Whether you’re discovering the magic of white winter on the slopes for the first time or you’ve holidayed at other resorts before, there’s nothing quite like SilverStar anywhere else.
The colourful and intimate fairytale village is lined with shops, cafes and restaurants, all within a short walk. It has a safe, family feel to it that you’ll love even if you’re here sans kids.
Fly from Australia to Kelowna, BC via Vancouver, then 1 hour by coach.
Take a look at our SilverStar accommodation and package deals.
Take family, couples or groups to this part of the world as February blossoms into March and April, and you’ll be sure to enjoy:
To help you make that decision, this Canadian spring ski resort guide delves into six of the Maple Country’s best snow holiday destinations – and who might revel most in each.
Of course, in a powder-blessed country like Canada, there’s no such thing as the wrong resort. You’ll have a fantastic time wherever you and your ski boots may roam.
And the Blue Powder team are always here to share our expert advice.
Whistler is the Instagram celebrity of ski resorts. Whether you’re skiing, snowmobiling, enjoying a massage, or eating at the hottest restaurant in town, life just looks amazing from every angle.
No doubt many other ski resorts have fame-envy, but Whistler is too busy having a good time to care.
Crowds flock to Whistler over December and January holidays. That’s why February and March is a great time to rub shoulders with SKI Magazine’s No.1 overall best ski resort in North America for three years in a row.
Whistler’s profile:
Getting to Whistler
Just over 2 hours’ drive from Vancouver means less travel and more holiday time.
Take a look at our Whistler accommodation and package deals.
With its myriad of ski runs, après fun, one-of-a-kind experiences, and 2000+ hours of sunshine each year, Sun Peaks knows how to put the friendly in family ski holidays.
If anywhere has the power to distract sweet little snow angels from turning into abominably grumpy snow ogres, it’s the wonderland of Sun Peaks:
Getting to Sun Peaks
From Vancouver via Kamloops to your cosy hotel room takes less than two hours.
Take a look at our Sun Peaks accommodation and package deals.
This lesser-known gem nestled high in the spectacular Rockies has something for the whole family too – from the fantastic ski school programs and daycare to the dreamy cruisers, Discover Quad terrain and exhilarating Taynton Bowl.
Plus, headlining the resort’s growing list of stay-together, play-together family activities, is Panorama’s famed slope-side 300m hot pool.
Come for the:
Getting to Panorama
Daily flights from Australia to Calgary with a 3.5 hour shuttle transfer to Panorama
Take a look at our Panorama accommodation and package deals.
With its gorgeous village, jaw-to-the-floor Rockies scenery, mythical creatures and incredible choice of bona fide Canadian outdoor activities, Banff/Lake Louise is a magical Easter experience you’ll never forget.
From the serene to the spirited, astonishing to the action-packed, this wild wonderland offers:
Getting to Banff
Fly to Calgary, then 2 hours by coach from Calgary
Take a look at our Banff/Lake Louise accommodation and package deals.
This warm and friendly resort looks and feels like a Hans Christian Anderson fairy-tale setting. So, you just know it’s going to be fun for kids and parents.
At the same time, there are plenty of rollicking fables for more advanced skiers and boarders to retell – about long blue cruiser runs, Rockstar Park adventures and scary encounters with big, bad double black run monsters.
Ski happily ever after in SilverStar:
Getting to SilverStar
Fly from Australia to Kelowna, BC via Vancouver, then 1 hour by coach.
Take a look at our SilverStar accommodation and package deals.
Big White could have been called the Big Easy. Because that’s what life’s all about here. And never more so than during Masters’ Week, when several hundred sociable and sprightly over 50’s hit town ready to ski, feast and be merry for three seperate ski weeks over Feb and March.
The best part? It’s not whether you’re a beginner, gentle cruiser, adventurous intermediate or a downhill Jedi, it’s all about the fun you have and people you meet.
Masters’ Weeks for 2018 are: Jan 29 – Feb 2 | Feb 26 – Mar 2 | Mar 26 – 30, so you can ease in to:
Getting to Big White
1 hour drive from Kelowna airport and less than an hour by air from Vancouver.
Take a look at our Big White accommodation and package deals
Why visit Japan for your next ski holiday? If it’s epic powder snow, versatility of terrain and unique cultural activities you’re after, then why not? And Hakuba resort delivers all this in spades, which may be why it has become such a firm ski favourite for families and hard core skiers and boarders alike!
Situated in the heart of the Japanese Alps, this stunning setting rivals some of the best of Europe and provides the steepest terrain by Japanese standards. Add over 11m of snowfall across 9 different resorts all accessed by one lift ticket and it’s no wonder it’s regularly considered the Skiing Mecca of Japan.
Hakuba is an ideal destination for families, it’s relatively easy to get to, there is a huge variety of skiing for everyone and lots of kid friendly activities and après that will delight all!
From one-of-a-kind snow monkey tours, to sake tastings and East meets West après, Hakuba offers a wide and unique variety of après and activities like nowhere else.
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mel says “Kikyo-Ya serves up the best sushi and Sashimi in Hakuba, it’s not to be missed!”
Flight time to Tokyo is approx 10 hours and makes an ideal stopover. Shuttles to Hakuba take around 5 hours or use a Japan Rail pass and catch the train to Nagano approx. 3 hours, then 1 hour shuttle to the resort.
From its duvet of champagne powder that covers the mountain slopes and village streets, to the wining, dining, romantic sunsets, lantern-lit sleigh rides and real-life social network for the 50+ a.k.a Masters’ Week, Big White has easy going charm and an ease and convenience that no snow-loving human can resist. Nor should they.
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick says “If you’re going as a family, consider Masters’ Week in Feb or March. The kids will have heaps of fun at Big White Ski & Board School at the same time”
With almost 8 metres of soft powder every year, Big White resort lives up to its big promise motto. And not just for the quantity and quality of the white stuff.
Your whole skiing experience is easy and stress free – whether you’re a beginner, gentle cruiser, adventurous intermediate or skiing’s answer to Ob-Won-Kenobi, with decades of steep mountain thrills under your boots:
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick says “If you’re an advanced skier but don’t want anything too extreme, head to the Falcon glades for wide steep runs. You can always up the ante later at Gem Lake.”
Whether it’s your first day on snow or you’re ready for an MBA in Powderology, the ski school at Big White is the ideal place to graduate with flying colours. And the best part of going back to school here? No crowded classrooms or boring lessons, just hours of fun in the playground:
Another part of Big White’s ski-life-was-meant-to-be-easy attitude is the village itself. It’s not just ski-in, ski-out, but ski-through too. Main Street includes a ski run and car-free pedestrian walkway, so you can slide right to your doorstep or stroll through the village to shop and sample some of the wonderful après ski drink and dining options.
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick says “The Globe Cafe and Tapas has delicious food, no matter what meal it is – even if you’re just dropping in for a warm-the-bones Sangria.”
As Canada’s Best Family Resort, it goes without saying that Big White has plenty of unique experiences, adventures, activities and events to keep everyone happy on and off the slopes.
That includes plenty of options for young-at-heart visitors – whether you feel like a rest day from skiing or want to add an extra adventure to your day’s itinerary.
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick says “After, or instead of, a day on the slopes, enjoy a soothing massage at The Beyond Wrapture Day Spa & Retreat”
If you’re a 50+ fan of magical snow, company, food and wine, you won’t want to miss Big White’s famous Masters’ Week programs.
The five day event, blends seminars and lessons with exclusive après events including wine tastings, sleigh rides, meals and more. It’s the perfect way to improve your skiing or snowboarding while bonding with your closest and make new friends with equally impressive tastes in hobbies and passions.
2018 Dates:
Monday 5:00pm
Welcome Reception of delicious drinks and appetisers, hosted by Ski and Board School Director Josh Foster.
Tuesday 5:00pm
Boot fitting, drinks and seminar with the legendary Lindsay “Dizzy” Bennett.
Wednesday 6:30pm
Horse sleigh ride and dinner in Big White’s forest cabin, with food provided by Kettle Valley Steakhouse.
Thursday 5:00pm
Drinks and nibbles at one of Big White’s top restaurants.
Friday 7:00pm
BC Legends Dinner at the delicious Harvest Table at Kettle Valley Steakhouse.
Package Includes:
*Based on 1st week 29 Jan – 02 Feb. Prices on application for other Masters Weeks Dates
In April this year, Squaw Valley, the Spring Skiing Capital, officially surpassed 700″! The sun was shining and conditions couldn’t be better! We asked Director of Ski Patrol, Curtis Crooks, to give the lowdown on his favourite way to ski Squaw in the Spring. Here’s what he recommends:
The key to spring skiing is following the sun. If you arrive at 9am, take Red Dog up and ski down Lake View (take a left at the top of the chair) which will bring you over to the Resort at Squaw Creek side. This long groomed cruiser starts with a killer view of Lake Tahoe and winds down to the Resort at Squaw Creek. After you’ve warmed up the legs, you’ll have some decisions to make on where to go next: KT-22 or Headwall Zone?
Views from the top of Red Dog and Squaw Creek are some of the best around
Anything East facing on KT-22 is a go early morning on Spring days. Curtis recommends going for East Face Gully, which delivers a consistent pitch and soft snow – even in the morning!
Sun Bowl is the premiere Spring skiing run in the Headwall Zone – just look at the name! This south facing slope is gentle and funnels you right into a traverse track that will pop you out at the top of The Bullet. Sun Bowl has some of the best corn snow around – that granular, mushy stuff you always here about? Yeah, Sun Bowl’s got it. The Bullet is a windy, fun, groomed trail that leads you right to Mountain Run and the bottom of Headwall, so you can head back up and do it all over again!
Sun Bowl is wide open and filled with soft slushy snow
If Curtis has to choose, Tower 16 is THE Spring run in all of Squaw Valley. This run is great in the winter months too due to it’s consistent pitch and steepness, but in the spring time you’ll find plenty of locals on this southern facing run. It’s a bit of work to get here, but boy is it worth it. Once you’re on the upper mountain head over to Big Blue Express. At the top take the wide open groomer to the left of Big Blue and point your boards to the bottom of Bailey’s Beach and Belmont. Pass the bottom terminals and you’ll see a gated entry point for Tower 16. After the flats there is a bit of an incline to the right – this is the path you want to take. You’ll end up right underneath the Funitel, this is when you know you’ve made it. Take in the views first and then drop in!
Breathtaking views from the top of Tower 16
Nothing says California skiing like lunch on a massive sundeck. At Gold Coast Complex, located mid-mountain, the resort has bars serving up craft beers or Bloody Mary’s, and a variety of food options including classics like pepperoni pizza and juicy cheeseburgers. Snag a seat on the deck and watch skiers come down from Siberia and Gold Coast while you fuel up for your afternoon turns.
Now that things are softening up, it’s time to make it back to the Headwall Zone to hit the north facing slopes! One favourite in the afternoon is North Bowl. “It doesn’t get much better than North Bowl when it smooths out and the bumps clear,” says Curtis. At the top of Headwall, go left on the cat track and stay left to reach the top of North Bowl. Find your entry and drop in to silky smooth corn snow!
Pro Tip: Head back down to Headwall and ski the slope in between North Bowl and The Face called “Hogsback”. This slope should be equally as fun as North Bowl, but gives you a bit more variety and longer pitch.
Smooth turns in North Bowl are a favourite in the afternoon!
It’s time to make it back over to KT-22 or “The Mothership” to score some west facing terrain that is soft. West Face is arguably the most famous slope off KT-22 due to it’s long vertical drop. Make your way to Chute 75 for a classic Squaw Valley run that is sure to be filled with soft slushy bumps. The Saddle, also on KT’s west face, is a fun, windy groomer that brings you down to the bottom of Headwall chair if you’re itching to make it back to Headwall. Otherwise, proceed on and take a few more KT laps to end your day.
A local’s favorite, the ‘Chammy’ has been a go-to après spot for years. Sunny spring days are perfect for sitting outside in the Adirondack chairs constructed from skis while taking in the views of the iconic Tram Face.
Pro Tip: Grab a buddy pass, which gives you 20 pints of Budweiser or Bud Light for $80. This will save you a $1 a beer and who doesn’t love saving a few bucks?
This is your spot to soak up the sun under legendary KT-22. Staggering views, fresh air, and signature cocktails always have a good crowd on hand here. Be sure to try out the Irish Nachos or Tri Tip Sandwich and don’t miss live outdoor music on Saturdays in April!
Cheers to a great spring day at Squaw Valley!
Written by Jackie M @ Squaw Valley April 2017
Everyone deserves Aspen at least once in a lifetime!
While Aspen is renowned for the celebs who visit and call it home, it’s equally famous for the spectacular variety of slopes, après ski action, dining for every palette, shopaholic candy and cosmopolitan bar scene – both down in town and high up in the mountains.
Whether you’ve never seen the snow or were born to this world in a pair of ski boots, you really should experience the winter magic of Aspen Snowmass at least once in your life.
Things you’ll love about Aspen Snowmass:
· 4 unique and stunning mountain resorts on 1 lift ticket
· Skiing and boarding for everyone from timid snow virgins to marauding double-black runners
· 100+ bars and restaurants to explore before, during and after a day on the slopes
· Making merry at the legendary mountain-top Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro
· Enough designer boutiques to rival Madison Avenue
· Accommodation options for every taste and budget
· Easy to get to from Australia
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Sam says “Book the free First Tracks guided tour to ski or board down Aspen Mountain or Snowmass at 8 am and leave you signature in the fresh powder before anyone else”
Ski 4 Fantastic Resorts for the Price of 1
One of the many brilliant things about Aspen Snowmass is the way Mother Nature designed it. Instead of sprinkling four amazing ski resorts across the Colorado Rockies, she sculpted a cosy home for all of them right here within kilometres of each other and all with a breathtaking scenic backdrop.
For beginner, intermediate and advanced skiers and boarders, that equates to 5300 acres of white mountain paradise accessible on one lift ticket, and all linked by a free shuttle bus.
Aspen Mountain – Advanced (and very game Intermediates)
· Rising above Aspen Village, just a short walk and lift ride away.
· Steep terrain for skiers and boarders and more bowls, chutes, cliffs, gullies, glades and wide open groomers than you can poke a ski pole at.
· Plenty of long groomers, bumps, black-diamond trails and double-black runs
· Ride a luxury snowcat to prime glades and runs at the back of Aspen Mountain on a Powder Tour. Fresh tracks guaranteed and gourmet lunch included
· Look out for The Oasis — a pop-up mobile Champagne bar towed around Aspen Mountain on a snowcat.
· Oodles of dining and Après ski options in Aspen Village (see further down for ideas)
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Sam says “Ski Ruthies for one of the best views over Aspen town!”
Snowmass – Beginners, Intermediates and Families
· Free shuttle – 15 mins from Aspen
· Ski area is as big as the other three resorts combined, so you could happily ski here the whole time
· 3 beginner-friendly zones Elk Camp, Assay Hill and Fanny Hill with gentle green trails
· Lashings of groomed blue and black intermediate runs + challenging terrain off the High Alpine and Sheer Bliss chairlifts.
· 8 km Intermediate run Long Shot that blends cruise glades and easy mogul fields
· 21 crowd-free lifts with access to your choice of cruisers, glades, steeps, terrain parks and halfpipes
· Kids love Snowmass with its interactive children’s centre, customised kids trails and famous kids’ ski school
· Drop in the Ranger Station for thirst quenching ski-in ski out beers
· Venga Venga for Mexican food and happy hour specials
· Plenty of dining and Après ski options on and off mountain
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Sam says “Snowmass keeps everyone smiling. It’s got the Beginner Magic Lounge and green runs plus plenty of blue, black and double black challenges for your experienced crew”
Buttermilk – complete Beginners and avid freestylers
· Free shuttle – 11 mins from Aspen, 10 mins from Snowmass
· Excellent learning mountain for new skiers and snowboarders
· Aspen’s longest terrain parks with 100 features to ride including the 22-foot superpipe
· Host to the ESPN winter X-Games, with pipes and 100 features to ride
· 12 lifts, including nine super lifts and a high-speed gondola
· Long, wide groomers at West Buttermilk and steeper rolling runs at Tiehack
· Bumps offers a wide variety of healthy, innovative dishes.
· Head to Cliffhouse for “make your own” Mongolian grill
Aspen Highlands – Advanced and Local Fave
· Free shuttle – 8 mins from Aspen, 15 mins from Snowmass
· Highest summit of the four mountains
· Abundance of expert terrain, groomed cruisers and breathtaking views of the Maroon Bells
· Hit Highland Bowl for 2,500-vertical-foot descents down pitches as steep as 45 degrees.
· 45-minute hike to the summit will reward you with 2,500-vertical-ft descents down pitches as steep as 45 degrees.
· 5 lifts, no lines, uncrowded slopes and runs to please all levels.
· Test your mogul skills and leg muscles on the extended Mushroom trail
· On a big powder day head to Child’s Play in the Highland Bowl.
· Indulge in raucous après ski scene at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro (more information below)
· Highlands Pizza Company features a full bar and virtually every style of pizza
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Sam says “Take the 45 minute hike up Highlands Bowl for the most exhilarating views and 3 minute ski drop of your life!”
Should we stay in Aspen or Snowmass?
Good question. And because free shuttles run all day and into the night between Aspen and Snowmass either one is a great option.
· If the Aspen off-slope action is as important as your on slope fun, stay in Aspen and shuttle to Snowmass and the other resorts when the mood takes you.
· If you want ski-in ski out access to the biggest variety of ski terrain, stay in Snowmass and venture in to Aspen at night.
· 95% of Snowmass accommodation is ski in/ski out including the perfectly placed Crestwood Lodge and Condominiums
· Most Aspen accommodation is in town, but ski lockers are available at the base of the gondola.
· Both Aspen and Snowmass have budget to luxury accommodation options
Best Après action in North America
From casual to sophisticated, laid back to party overdrive, Aspen has a jaw-dropping choice of off-slope dining, entertainment and shopping options.
And in the town that Conde Nast has tipped as North America’s best après scene, you could even find yourself rubbing shoulders with the many celebs who holiday and own chalets here.
Eats
· Start your day with waffles, eggs Benedict or omelettes at Aspen Overeasy
· Indulge in a Cloud 9 lunch of delectable daily specials with matching international wines, Champagne and majestic views of the Maroon Bells.
· Have lunch at Lynne Britt cabin on the Snowmass mountain
· Eat mouth-watering pizza at Brunelleschi’s.
· Head to local favourite L’Hostaria for homemade pasta and great wines
· Book a Cloud 9 Thursday night Snowcat Dinner with a 6pm pickup at the base of Highlands Mountain, drop off at 10.30pm, ready to party in town
· Play chopsticks with some of the world’s best sushi at Matsuhisa
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Sam says “Get down and dirty devouring the best ribs in town at the Aspen Hickory House.”
Drinks
· Head to the Aspen brewing company to sample the local brews
· Try an Aspen Crud bourbon infused vanilla milkshake at J Bar, where Hollywood royalty used to prop up the bar.
· Grab a high top table or chaise-lounge at Chair 9 in the Little Nell Hotel, one of the best après-ski lounges in the country. Or upgrade to VIP seating for bottle service and room for up to eight guests.
· Secure a patio table at Ajax Tavern for a casual sun-drenched lunch or sunset cocktails, truffle fries and people watching
· Drop in to Justice Snow for the unique, handmade cocktails
Be Merry
· Check out who’s playing at the Belly Up, as they often have big name acts
· Rock, reggae and hip hop on at the Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert Series.
· Get down at 39 Degrees in the Sky Hotel – BYO bikini or boardies if you want a dip in the pool
· Dance up a storm at Cloud Nine ski boot dance parties under a bobbing sea of champagne flutes, wine glasses and colourful cocktails
· For some old school fun, The Tavern party rolls on well into the night
Retail and Soul Therapy
· Stretch out at yoga at the Sundeck on Aspen Mountain
· Visit the local dog shelter and take some ex husky sled dogs for a walk
· Take a guided snowshoe tour on Snowmass Mountain to see the winter forest in a whole new way
· Have a shot of culture at the Aspen Art Museum or Red Brick Center
· Browse the selection of books and Explore Bookstore
· High end dresses, shoes and bags at Distractions
· Susie’s Consignment’s for those with luxury clothes taste but limited means.
Getting to Aspen
· Fly daily from Australia to Denver or Aspen via LA or San Francisco
OK, so we all know (don’t we?) that Panorama has some of the best skiing on the planet…aaah Taynton Bowl. But what is not as well known is their excellent dining and après scene, a host of splendid eatery options surrounded by the spectacular backdrop of the Purcell Mountains…it doesn’t get better! So, below is a comprehensive insider’s guide listing some of the best eats and recommendations that Panorama has to offer.
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
If you’re searching for the ultimate homemade pasta and pizzeta (gourmet flatbread pizza), this is your spot. Recently refurbished, this is casually elegant dining perfect for the whole family. The best seat in the house is right next to the beautiful tall stone fireplace in the centre of the room, and the comprehensive wine list and fine selection of cocktails, doesn’t disappoint. The restaurant also hosts a daily buffet breakfast with omelets made to order and all your usual favourites.
Restaurant ElevenFIFTY is located in the heart of the upper village and is open daily from 8 AM.
MUST EAT: Smoked salmon linguine carbonara
MUST DRINK: Hugo
Dinner
Go a little higher this winter and treat yourself to a meal over hot stones at the RK Heliplex. Out front you’ll see Coldstream’s helicopters tucked in for the evening just waiting to take flight the next morning while the rest of the village twinkles with lights beneath the night sky. This rustic log cabin restaurant with a European inspired menu provides a variety of different types of fondue and tableside hot-stone cooking that will leave you craving another visit.
Choppers Landing is open Friday – Sunday 5 – 9PM.
MUST EAT: Chinoise Fondue
MUST DRINK: Pinot Noir
Breakfast / Lunch
Located at the base of the Mile 1 chairlift you can grab and go or stay and warm up at the Picnic Café. A small selection of hot menu items is offered, plus soup, ready to go sandwiches, baked goods and locally made donuts and coffee.
Picnic Café is open daily from 8 AM.
MUST EAT: Breakfast Wrap
MUST DRINK: Dirty Chai Latte
Dinner
Located just past the main thoroughfare of the upper village, CABIN Smokehouse is the coolest place on resort for dinner and drinks. The cozy, wooden interior with its eclectic décor, communal seating and welcoming vibe pairs nicely with a well-considered wine selection and delicious menu featuring a variety of in-house smoked meats, their speciality. For something a little different put your mind to the test at adult only trivia on Sundays.
CABIN Smokehouse is open daily from 4 PM.
MUST EAT: The Tray
MUST DRINK: Aperol Spritz
Lunch / Dinner / Nightlife
Because who doesn’t love après ski? T-Bar & Grill is the main place to party the night away or fuel up on burgers and pints. For lunch and dinner T-Bar boasts a menu full gourmet pub fare. Meet the gang at the bottom of the Mile 1 chairlift and cheers to a wicked day on the slopes. For late night entertainment, T-Bar & Grill hosts regular live music performances, DJs and events. This place is always lively. Musical Bingo is on every Wednesday night and you must give it a go!
T-Bar & Grill is open daily from 11 AM until late.
MUST EAT: Avocado Fries
MUST DRINK: Old Fashioned
Snacks / Lunch / Dinner
Overlooking the beautiful snow-covered expanse of Greywolf Golf Course, Cliffhanger Restaurant has a menu bursting with flavour. You’ll enjoy gourmet dining beside ceiling to the floor windows as you take in views of the surrounding Purcell Mountains. The Restaurant is located at the Greywolf Clubhouse, beyond the treeline of the Sunbird chairlift. You can ski in and out for lunch or drive over for dinner. Cross country skiers and snowshoers are also welcome. Cliffhanger’s Snack Shack is open for the winter for a quick bite to eat on the run or stop and sit around the outdoor fire.
Cliffhanger Restaurant is open Wednesday to Sunday 11AM – 9PM.
MUST EAT: Braised Short Rib
MUST DRINK: Espresso Martini
Nightlife
Quaint and cozy with a distinctly laid-back local’s vibe the Jackpine Pub is hidden away in the lower village. Enjoy a game of pool, darts, or even a board game as you sample a selection of local draught beers and seasonal cocktails. There is barely a street sign for this tucked away drinkery which makes it the perfect escape from the late night crowds of the T-Bar & Grill. Things are kept simple here and the same goes for the menu which is provided by Thunderbird Pizza, right across the street. Don’t miss Sunday night Trivia or the Wednesday pool comp.
The Jackpine Pub is open Wednesday – Sunday from 5 PM.
MUST EAT: Deep fried pickles from Thunderbird
MUST DRINK: Local beers on tap
Coffee / Grab & Go
There’s nothing quite like coffee conversations in this little gem. Start your morning with a chat about recent snowfall or the best spots to hit up on the mountain while you get your equipment tuned to perfection. Once voted the best smelling rental shop in Canada by Ski Canada Magazine, and that is the beauty behind this unique location. Coffee in one hand, confidence in the other. After all, local ski techs know best.
The Cappuccino Bar is open daily from 8 AM.
MUST EAT: Daily baked goods
MUST DRINK: London Fog made with almond milk
Dinner
If at first you don’t succeed, order pizza. Hand rolled dough and housemade sauce, these North American style thick crust pizzas are heavily loaded with goodness. With names like Meat Sweats you know you’re in for some serious comfort food. It’s pick up only but service is speedy and these pizzas are the perfect end to a big day of shredding or a long day of travel.
Thunderbird Pizza is open Wednesday to Sunday from 4:30-10 PM.
MUST EAT: Northern Lights Pizza
MUST DRINK: Pick up a bottle of BC wine or some local Arrowhead beer from the General Store next door.
Breakfast / Lunch
Picture this; soaking up the sun with your favourite people while aiming for the greatest goggle tan of the season. The sun is shining and the music is bumping right at the base of the mountain. Oh wait, this is real life! On warm bluebird days you won’t want to be anywhere else. You may hear of this cafeteria being referred to as the day lodge and that’s essentially what it is. Somewhere to stop in for a fast and quick meal before getting right back on the lift to hit the slopes for the afternoon. Satisfy the biggest hunger and fuel up on a classic burger or stone oven pizza. Grab a picnic table outside on the patio for a true ski resort vibe.
The Great Hall is open daily from 8AM-4PM or later if it is sunny and warm outside.
MUST EAT: Stone Oven pizza
Lunch / Après
A warm welcome with a brew-tiful selection of specialty coffees and outstanding views of Taynton Bowl. Give the local bratwurst and Ray’s famous meat or vegetarian chili a go. To get the ultimate mountain experience, expose your palate to a traditional cheese and chocolate fondue with a twist. You’ll fly to the summit with RK Heliski for this uniquely Panorama après activity of heli-fondue. Once spring rolls around, you’ll want to be sunbathing outside on the summit’s patio! Reservations for heli fondue must be made in advance. See the website for more information.
The Summit Hut is open daily from 10 AM.
MUST EAT: Ray’s famous chili
MUST DRINK: Toblerone specialty hot chocolate
Lunch / Après
Once you unload from the Mile 1 Express you will see this cabin. Enjoy a cappuccino or some cold beers and take in the amazing views from inside or outdoors on the massive deck with a fire pit in the centre. Food is available during the mountain’s hours of operation and the menu is great. Take your après ski one mile further as you arrive with several friends and dig into cheese and chocolate fondue following an unforgettable ski down under the lights. Thursday and Friday evenings they offer a special snowcat accessed three-course fondue, or on Saturdays take the chairlift up during night skiing. Reservations must be made in advance. See the website for more information.
The Mile 1 Hut is open daily from 9:30 AM.
MUST EAT: Bison burger
MUST DO: Après Ski Fondue
Lunch / Après
The views here are incredible, perhaps the best on the mountain. This historic cabin was pulled up from the village by snowcat and perfectly placed facing North at Mt. Nelson, South toward Paramount and Paradox Peak, and West down the valley at the big and beautiful Monument Peak. Cozy up next to the great big window with a glass of mulled wine. Racletting is a Swiss tradition that Canadians can’t seem to get enough of. On the menu is a delicious selection of meat and cheese. Similar to fondue, just heartier. You can also book a table here for the ski-in, snowcat out raclette on Thursdays and Fridays.
The Elkhorn Cabin is open daily from 11 AM.
MUST EAT: Raclette
MUST DRINK: Mulled wine
MUST DO: Raclette & lamplight ski-out (only available on Saturdays)
Lunch / Après
When your legs are shot and your stomach is grumbling, Snowlicious Mobile Kitchen serves up hot alfresco dishes and cold brews that are mitten approved. This roaming food-truck snowcat is the first in Canada and the perfect place to grab lunch between powder runs, from Goldie Plateau to the bottom of Sun Bowl.
MUST EAT: burritos
Getting there
Daily flights from Australia to Calgary with a 3.5 hour shuttle transfer to Panorama.
Spectacular, relaxed and nestled high along the famous Powder Highway in the BC Rockies, Panorama is a family ski holiday gem that Canadians wish they could keep quiet about. But with locals this welcoming, scenery this breathtaking and skiing this good, it was only a matter of time before word got out.
And with early bird deals still available – when most big resorts are heavily booked – now is the perfect time for your snow loving family to get to know this intimate resort just hours from Calgary.
Things you’ll love about Panorama
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick’s says “After a day on the slopes, sink into one of the huge hot tubs at the bottom of the mountain. There’s nothing like relaxing in 40C water while the snow comes down“
Let it powder, let it powder, let it powder
Amazing snow conditions and services to match make Panorama the dreamiest of winter playgrounds – whether you’re happiest riding the gentle beginner’s carpet lift, exploring green and blue runs, or conquering North America’s big-daddy of double black vertical drops. A ski holiday in this spellbinding little corner of the globe is an unforgettable way for you and your family to experience the Canadian Rockies together, in all its winter glory:
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick’s says “At the top of the Summit Quad Chair, take a moment to savour the view of 1000 Peaks, it will take your breath away.”
Kids love Panorama ski fun (and so do Mum and Dad)
From beginners to advanced, tots to teens, kids of all ages have the time of their life learning and making new friends in Panorama.
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick’s says “Let the kids go wild in the Mile 1 Quad snow play area. I highly recommend the Secret Forest and Fort Hide ‘N’ Seek slippery dips.”
A Beginner and Intermediate skier’s smorgasbord
Expert skiers have always swooned at Panorama’s ability to thrill, excite and satisfy on the slopes. So, over the past four years the resort has focused much of its attention – and millions of investment dollars – into building a wonderland for new and intermediate skiers and snowboard riders too.
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick’s says “Try Campbell’s Canyon for a beautiful scenic ski off the main mountain runs.”
Advanced
Corduroy cruisers, vertical drops, powdery, long, fast, meandering…every advanced skier has their own idea of the ideal run. That’s why Panorama is such an exciting place to clip on your skies or board and head for the peaks.
Here you’ll find that rare blend of awe-inspiring conditions, terrain and services that manage to please all the people, all of the time.
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick’s says “For a thrill take a short hike to the double-black runs on Trayton Bowl. Looking from the top you think it’s impossible to make the turns, but you can, and the sensation is amazing!”
Panorama Village – ski-in ski-out and walk all about
The compact and cosy pedestrian village means a good selection of dining, shopping, spa and entertainment options are never far away. There’s also a free five-minute gondola ride between the Upper and Lower Village so you can park your car and leave it.
Apres-ski action
Getting there
Daily flights from Australia to Calgary with a 3.5 hour shuttle transfer to Panorama
From the breathtaking scenery and crowd-free slopes to the unique blend of historic Wild West town, modern European-style Village and experiences for everyone on snow and après, you’ll never forget your first time at Telluride.
And to ensure you make the most of your time at this majestic mountain, Noah Sheedy, Telluride’s Ski & Snowboard School Director, shares his inside knowledge on how to have a perfect day on the mountain.
1 Morning Warm-Up
Start your morning off from Mountain Village with a warm-up run down The Meadows, then hop on the Sunshine Express (10). On the 10-minute ride up, you’ll immediately feel as though you’ve entered an entirely different resort.
2 Like a Kid
Once at the top, follow the Double Cabins ski run to Bridges, and relive your childhood where everything was a playground—that’s the feeling you get skiing under and over bridges and through tunnels as you make your way to the bottom of the aptly-named ski run.
3 Ride the Express
Ride back up Sunshine Express (10), then disembark at the top into Ute Park and the Ute Park Express (11). As you ride the Ute Park Express, the uniqueness of Telluride and its green runs becomes apparent. On this lift, you are transported along at the top of the mountain where you can take in the same great views of Prospect Basin expert-level skiers have.
4 Fill Your Fun Tank
Make one lap through the Ute Park terrain (which may turn into 10 when you realize how fun it is). There are lots of natural and manmade features that are extremely fun but not intimidating, even for a novice skier.
5 Explore the Basin
Once you’ve filled up your “fun tank,” dip into Prospect Basin from the top of the Ute Park Express (11), following Little Maude and Madison ski trails through gentle meadows with seemingly endless tree islands that make your first Prospect Basin experience unforgettable.
6 Time to Hydrate
At this point, you’ve probably built up a bit of an appetite, so ride the Prospect Express (12) to the top, then swing into High Camp for hot chocolate, warm soup and some much-needed water. Head outside and post up in front in one of the Adirondack chairs on the snow and watch the action. This is when you truly realize that Telluride offers even novice skiers who stick to green runs unbeatable views and a top-of-the-world feeling. After all, you’re standing at 11,815 feet above sea level here!
7 Duck, Duck, Goose
Hop on the 4.6-mile-long Galloping Goose trail that meanders through high alpine forests, spectacular vistas, and past beautiful mountain homes as you work your way back to the bottom of Sunshine Express (10) and The Meadows ski run.
8 The Road to Mountain Village
From here, ride the Chondola (1) back up to Mountain Village and load Village Express (4) to finish the day skiing with your family and friends who are exploring all the great intermediate trails this chairlift has to offer, all while staying on Village Bypass ski trail, a beginner-level run. At this point, all roads lead back to Mountain Village and a well-deserved après drink and appetizer at Tomboy Tavern.
1 Rise & Shine
Hop on Village Express (4) out of Mountain Village promptly at 9 a.m.—all the freshly groomed corduroy early in the morning is well worth making it to first chair. One of the best-kept secrets on this chair is Peek-A-Boo ski trail on a freshly groomed morning. Head right off the top of Village Express (4) and find your zen first thing in the morning by enjoying this trail, likely all by yourself.
2 A Gold Mine of Trails
Head back up Village Express (4), this time following the upper section of Boomerang to Cake Walk and Polar Queen Express (5). The trail network encompassed by Polar Queen Express (5) chair is perfectly tailored to the intermediate skier. Take the time to explore every run accessed by this chair, as none will disappoint and each is unique. Ophir Loop and Stormin’ Norman are the most mellow and are great warm-up runs. Then up the intensity a bit with Polar Queen and Alta. As you gain confidence make your way to Gold Rush to explore the perfectly-spaced trees hidden between Henry’s and Silver Tip. Make one last run to test your mettle on one of Telluride’s steepest blue trails, Henry’s.
3 Beat the Lunch Rush
Take an early lunch at Bon Vivant, which offers authentic French cuisine in an amazing outdoor dining setting. The French onion soup is to die for!
4 Pure Magic
Head out on Lower Woozley’s Way as it winds through the Prospect Bowl basin, and follow the signs for the Prospect Express (12). Sandia and Magnolia are perfect intermediate trails, both offering a combination of short, steep pitches to get your heart racing, and playful lower-angle terrain that bobs and weaves through forested alcoves that make you feel as though you are the only person to ski the pathway you just did. It’s pure magic!
5 Enjoy the Ride
Regardless of the trail that you took through this magical area that is Prospect Basin, veer toward Sandia and follow the signs to the Gold Hill Express (14). This will be an intense chairlift ride where you’ll get to watch some of the best skiers on the mountain play on expert-only terrain.
6 Experiencing Forever
See Forever is one long ridge, with never-ending views and a wide-open groomer the entire way back to Mountain Village. You’ll go by Alpino Vino, North America’s highest elevation restaurant, as well as Tempter House, a private vacation home perched above a permanently-closed chute of the same name.
7 An Après to Remember
Just as you ski the final pitch of See Forever, your legs will surely be ready for a well-deserved break. Follow the signs to the San Sophia Gondola Station, take your skis off, and walk through the station to Allred’s for an après experience like no other. Trust me when I say that the view from the bar in Allred’s is one of the most special views in all of Telluride. No words can describe it, but it will surely make you forget about how tired your legs are after the perfect day of exploring Telluride’s blue ski trails.
And we’re almost certain it won’t be your last.
1 Take the Plunge
Take the plunge with Telluride’s most iconic black ski trails—The Plunge and Bushwacker—on Plunge Lift (9). Each night, the professional groomers of the Telluride Ski Resort alternate laying down the most perfect corduroy on one or the other of these two perfect pitches. Oh, and did I mention the vertical drop off these runs? A whopping 2,100 feet of pure bliss. Grab a grooming report and get over to Plunge Lift (9) ASAP in the morning for some of the most exhilarating turns you’ll make all day. And the best part is, if you get there early enough you’ll practically have these runs to yourself. Trust me—you’ll want to make lap after lap on these runs.
2 Maximize the Morning Sun
After your legs are thoroughly warmed up from several thousand vertical feet of 40-degree slopes, make your way to Revelation Bowl via the Gold Hill Express (14). Revelation Bowl offers above tree line bowl skiing and is Telluride’s most east-facing terrain, so you’ll maximize the morning sun while enjoying unparalleled views of Bear Creek. Silvercloud is another of Telluride’s iconic steep, groomed, expert-level ski trails.
3 Dip Your Toe
Make your way to Woozley’s Way and back into Prospect Bowl. It’s time to dip your toe into the amazing hike-to experience that the Telluride Ski Resort offers advanced-level skiers and snowboarders. Traverse into Confidence run, or for a more authentic experience, take your skis off at the top of Prospect Express (12) and hike 30 yards to the top entrance into the run.
4 Midday Après
Ride the Gold Hill Express (14) to Alpino Vino. Soaking up the sun on the Alpino Vino deck with a charcuterie plate is a lunch experience like no other. Resist the temptation to over-eat because you’ve got an afternoon of high-intensity skiing ahead of you.
5 Southern Exposure
After lunch head toward Apex—a steep, off-piste run that softens up nicely in the afternoon because of its southern exposure. There are lots of playful lines in and out of trees in Apex that will keep you exploring for several runs on Apex Lift (6). In spring, there’s nothing better than Apex and “town” laps in the afternoon. So once you’ve had your fill of the Apex Lift terrain, follow See Forever to Milk Run—the epitome of spring corn skiing when the warm spring sun softens the snow to a perfect, milky texture. If it’s still mid-winter, opt for a run down Coonskin to finish your afternoon skiing directly into the town of Telluride.
1 Your Own Playground
As an expert skier in Telluride, the mountain is truly your playground. And as such, there is no better way to start your day than a hike to the top of the mountain. So, work your way up to the top of Revelation Lift (15), where opportunities abound for the expert-level skier. It’s time to experience Gold Hill, a mile-long ridge of steep, off-piste ski runs. You’ve gotten a good warm-up skiing to Revelation Bowl, so it’s the perfect time to take your skis off, throw them over your shoulder, and hike out to the iconic Gold Hill Chutes. Be forewarned—this is expert-level terrain. But for those with the experience and skill, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more “backcountry” experience in the controlled environment of in-bounds resort skiing.
2 The Perfect First Experience
Venture all the way out to the end of the ridge and hike up the Gold Hill Staircase to access Gold Hill 9 Chute (GH9). GH9 is the perfect first experience for expert level skiers new to skiing chutes. It’s relatively wide and opens up to a beautiful apron of playful skiing underneath the runout of Palmyra Peak. Make your way to the Sweet Martha zone of the apron where you’ll play amongst fun, natural features and well-spaced trees as you make your way back to the base of Gold Hill Express (14).
3 Like a Million Bucks
After experiencing the glory of Gold Hill Chutes and Palmyra Basin, it’s time to ski another iconic route in Telluride’s advanced/expert repertoire—Dynamo, then skiing left to Claude’s Couloir and finishing the run on Lower Millions. If this doesn’t simultaneously get you hooting and hollering, your heart pounding, and your legs burning, you’ll want to check your pulse.
4 Rite of Passage
Head back up the Gold Hill Express (14) and follow See Forever to Plunge Lift (9). It’s time for a rite of passage for any expert skier in Telluride—Kant-Mak-M, which is a solid 40-45 degree slope consisting of about 800 vertical feet of big, awesome moguls. The snow is almost always perfect here and, although the bumps are big, your smile will be bigger when you successfully make it down this pitch.
5 Not Done Yet
But wait, there’s more—at the bottom of Kant-Mak-M, follow the lift line traverse track and it will spit you out onto an equally-as-challenging mogul run called Spiral Stairs. As Spiral Stairs starts to flatten out, stay left and cut across to Lower Plunge to complete the bump run trifecta on the Plunge Lift terrain. If you can ski these three runs, consisting of over 2,100 vertical feet of steep bumps nonstop, please come talk to me in the Ski School offices—I may very well have a job for you!
6 Finishing Touches
Once you’ve finished Lower Plunge and have given your legs a break, finish off your town-side lap by skiing Jaws (more steep bumps!) to Cats Paw finishing at the base of the gondola in town. From here you have two options… if it’s the spring and the sun is still up, ride the gondola back up to ski Milk Run in the phenomenal corn snow that develops in the afternoon. If it’s still mid-winter and the sun is already hidden behind the ski area, take your skis off and walk into OAK Fat Alley BBQ at the base of the gondola for a well-deserved après drink in a fun, relaxed environment that this mountain BBQ joint offers. Cheers!
Credit: Telluride Ski Resort
Skiing this seemingly infinite terrain with almost no day-trippers or crowds…it doesn’t get any better! So, for more information on discovering this majestic mountain for yourself, talk to the people who’ve been there!
Tucked in to a majestic canyon of the Colorado Rockies is the enchanting ski in/ski out resort of Telluride. While more and more Australian ski lovers are hearing whispers about this family snow holiday paradise, few have had the pleasure of experiencing it…yet.
From the breathtaking scenery and crowd-free slopes, to the unique blend of historic Wild West town, modern European-style Village and experiences for everyone on snow and après, you’ll never forget your first time at Telluride.
And we’re almost certain it won’t be your last.
Things you’ll love about Telluride:
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick’s says “Take the free mountain gondola to town at night. Floating above snow and trees, then over the summit to see the town lights 2000ft below…it feels like you’re on the most amazing theme park ride ever built.”
Spectacular ski terrain and almost non-existent lift lines
Telluride is a ski and boarder adventure playground for everyone.The top of the mountain spoils you with spectacular vistas across the jagged San Juan range. And the best part is that even beginners can take the lift up to the top for the views and ski all the way back down for a warm drink.
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick’s says “On your first day treat your body and lungs to a relaxing massage and the Altitude Adjustment Oxygen Bar at The Spa at Madeline”
Ski and snowboarding school for all ages and levels
Whether you’re a seasoned ski vet or you’ve never experienced the crunch of snow under boot, Telluride is a sublime place to learn to ski or board from scratch, or see your skills take off!
A mountain village with everything at your glove tips
Telluride Mountain Village sits at the centre of a gorgeous mountain amphitheatre, high above the town. The warm, relaxed vibe is a striking contrast to the dramatic, awe-inspiring backdrop of the soaring pyramid peaks that surround it.
From the range of lodging options to the intimate, pedestrian-friendly courtyards and winding enclaves that house bundles of grown-up and kid-friendly adventures waiting to be uncovered, you’ll find everything you could want from a family ski holiday at the tips of your gloves.
(See more dining ideas further down)
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick’s says “In the afternoon, head to The View Bar & Grill at Mountain Lodge Telluride for a relaxing drink with floor-to-ceiling mountain sunset views. It’s amazing!”
Discover quirky, historic Telluride Town
In the 1800s, the treacherous journey to the rambunctious mining town of Telluride was described as “To hell you ride” (To-hell-you-ride. See what they did there?)
And while the neighbourhood is far more gentrified since the dusty prospectors and squinting cowboys vanished from the boardwalks and saloons, the wood and brick Victorian buildings along Main Street make it easy to picture yourself in the thick of the action. Like Quentin Tarantino did when he filmed his western flick, “The Hateful 8”, here.
Jump on a Wild West Winter activity
Hungry yet? Let’s talk food and nightlife
Telluride is nirvana for food bon vivants of all ages and tastes, consistently batting above its weight in the Fodor’s, Conde Nast and USA Today rankings for best US dining and night time fun.
With over 50 restaurants and some of the best chefs in the country calling it home, there’s a mouth-watering collection of options for every morning, noon and night of your stay:
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick says “Take the kids to the famous Brown Dog Pizza – 1st place winners at the Pizza World Championships 2015 in Parma, Italy!”
And a few sans-kids ideas, in case the opportunity or need arises
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick’s says “Try Rustico for its fantastic Italian food, exceptional wine list, relaxed vibe and celeb spotting”
Getting here
There are daily flights from both LA and San Francisco to Montrose, Colorado, then a one hour shuttle transfer to Telluride town.
Maurice Sendak, the author of famous children’s book, ‘Where the Wild Things Are’, once described Max’s imagination, “There should be a place where only the things you want to happen, happen”. Nestled in the heart of the awe-inspiring Banff National Park, is a place a lot like that. Banff and Lake Louise.
With its magical town, made-for-movies scenery, three amazing ski resorts, Big Footed legends, and phantasmic outdoor activities, it has all the elements for an unforgettable family ski holiday adventure.
The 7 Best Things About Banff…
Snow fun comes in triple-treat flavours around Banff where you can dive into the offerings of three unique Canadian ski resorts. All located within easy reach by regular shuttle bus. And all available to you on one tri-area lift pass.
Test them all out and then spend extra time at your favourite. Or wake up each day and leave the decision in the reliable hands of the snow gods. Either way, it makes for exciting times on the slopes around Banff.
Mount Norquay – the Local Ski ‘Hill’
Sunshine Village – Powder Heaven
Lake Louise – Extensive Terrain
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick’s says “Every chair lift at Lake Louise has easy trail options back down. So parents and kids can all go up and ski from the top”
Jaw-dropping back-country skiing and snowboarding
Back-country skiing is an incredible way to get up close and personal with the wild, natural beauty of Banff. It’s also an opportunity to ski or board untracked backcountry powder away from the crowds.
The fresh air and wild outdoors of Banff provide the ideal family escape from concrete jungle life back home. Imagine no traffic, stress or little zombie-like faces buried in computer games, just rosy cheeks and beaming smiles all around.
From the serene to the spirited, astonishing to the action-packed, you’ll find everyone’s idea of holiday adventure somewhere in this wild wonderland:
Magical family activities at Lake Louise
Lake Louise is one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever see. With 360° panorama of Banff National Park and iconic hotels like the world famous Fairmont Chateau, you often stop for a moment to take it all in and appreciate how fortunate you are to be there.
But Lake Louise is far more than just a pretty face. From the family-friendly and laidback vibe to the treasure-trove of après ski activities, you’ll be quickly wooed by her considerable charms:
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Mick says, “Consider splitting your stay between accommodation in Banff and the Chateau Lake Louise, it is truly magical!”
Banff Village
Lively, vibrant Banff town makes family snow holidays comfortable, enchanting and exciting for everyone in the family. This snow-covered gem sits at the end of an awe-inspiring scenic drive through mountainous national parks, giving Lake Louse a serious run for its money in the looks department. Especially at night when the lantern-lit streets come to life.
With so many shops, bars, restaurants, spas and attractions across this charming town, you can happily stay in Banff and shuttle to the resorts each day. And there’s plenty to keep you out of mischief if you don’t want to ski every day.
Check out a little bit of wild beauty of Banff & Lake Louise…
Looking to spoil yourself, your partner or your posse?
Whatever’s on your mind, picture that moment back-dropped with incredible ski terrain, unique après ski delights, adrenalin-buzzing action, cosy rendezvous, cosmopolitan dining and scintillating nightlife. Now erase the teeming crowds from the scene.
Like what you see? Then it’s time you were introduced to Whistler, Canada over February and March.
Blue Powder Insider tip. Mick says “Late afternoon, head to your hotel hot tub and relax with a post-ski drink, good company and breathtaking scenery”
Hearing that Whistler is North America’s largest ski resort doesn’t quite explain just how expansive and exciting this place is for on-slope fun and adventure. So here are some jaw-dropping numbers to put ‘real big’ in perspective:
And best of all, Whistler village sits at the base of the mountains, so you’ll never need to shuttle from point home to point heavenly slopes and back.
There’s only one thing more thrilling than basking in Whistler’s heavenly ski conditions, terrain and options over December and January. Experiencing them in February and March.
Right outside your door, two of the world’s best equipped and serviced mountains for skiing, boarding and only-in-Whistler outdoor experiences await, completely blanketed in some of the world’s most pristine snow.
And you’ll have all the room in the world to make merry on them, as gently or daringly as you choose.
Blue Powder Insider tip. Mick says. “Get in the gondola line at 6am to be one of the lucky 650 enjoying breakfast at Fresh Tracks on top of the mountain, then ski down before the lifts open.”
Whether you’re a first-timer on skis or a snowboard, an intermediate ready to say hello to blue and black runs, or a hard-core ripper or shredder keen to fine-tune your skills, Whistler’s much-lauded ski school has a program for you.
And, being one of the best ski and snowboard schools in North America, the resort attracts some of the best instructors from around the globe. So you can glean the expert knowledge and skills in:
Note: They also offer a fantastic range of children’s ski and snowboard lessons too.
Make the most of these special ski lesson savings too…
If only high school classes had been this much fun!
Off the slopes, Whistler’s pedestrian-only village is just as vivacious and sophisticated. It’s one of the best snow towns in the world, celebrated for its shopping, restaurants, all-pleasing nightlife and superb accommodation.
No day or night of the week is ever dull in Whistler. From romancing to revelling, parties of two to parties of plenty, you’ll find a perfect match for all occasions, moods and company that you’re keeping.
Dining and drinks
Whistler is peppered with fantastic pubs, bars and restaurants to explore on a lazy afternoon, for dinner and drinks, or for drinks then dinner and then drinks again!
What’s your flavour?
Blue Powder Insider tip. Mick says, ‘For an amazing dinner, book at Araxi Restaurant, rated by Gordon Ramsay (and myself!) as the best in Canada.”
Don’t get us wrong, Whistler loves families. But this article is a shout-out to couples and groups travelling without snow grommets in tow. And Whistler has some unforgettable experiences just for you:
Blue Powder insider tip. Mick says “Bobsledding down the 2010 Olympic Winter Games track at 90 km/hr is one for your bucketlist.”
Or for the romantics…
Take advantage of great deals for Feb/March, book by November 15 and receive:
Why is Canadian ski resort, Sun Peaks a firm family favourite? At Sun Peaks, family holidays are as stress-free and easy as they are fun and memorable. From the ski-through, family-friendly village and dreamy ski conditions for all ages and levels, to the array of Canadian winter wonderland après experiences, it’s a place teeming with moments you and your children will take home with you and remember for years to come.
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Sam says: “Treat yourself to a post-ski Express Spa water jet massage. OMG!”
Every parent knows that happy kids mean happy holidays. And on ski trips, freezing or wet weather can quickly turn smiling snow angels into ogres. In Sun Peaks, you’re as close to assured of perfect skiing weather as Mother Nature ever grants with:
From the moment you’re ready to hit the slopes, there’s much to love about Canada’s second-largest resort. Being a true is ski-in ski-out village, you won’t be trekking for miles lugging skis and boots.
On the mountains you’ll mingle with a fraction of the crowds that head to larger resorts. So lift queues are rare and there’s always plenty of wide open space to learn, cruise or take on a next level challenge.
Whether your snow posse are beginners, intermediates or advanced skiers and boarders, they’ll be in rapture for days enjoying:
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Sam says: “Family season passes are even available in high season so it might be a cheaper option than regular lift passes.”
Sun Peaks have a renowned ski school and lesson programs that give your brood the chance to learn correct techniques from an expert, have fun with kids their own age and be returned to you all skied out.
Meanwhile, you can relax knowing they’re in good hands while you bask in some well-earned grown up time on the slopes. Sun Peaks offers:
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Sam says: “Ski gear for kids is often free with adults hire.”
Everything about Sun Peaks charming and intimate pedestrian-only village has been carefully planned and built to ensure families feel right at home.
With its welcoming and helpful locals, car free village, and choice of ski in ski out accommodation dining and fun activities, you immediately feel part of a close knit, caring community. It’s a big part of what makes holidaying as a family in Sun Peaks such a pleasure. And why so people return year after year.
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Sam says: “Try the heavenly cinnamon buns sold at Sunburst Mid Mountain Restaurant – they’re the best!”
Don’t worry Mum and Dad, Sun Peaks hasn’t forgotten that this is your holiday too. With ski schools, childminding, babysitting and all kinds of activities here to keep kids enthralled, it’s crucial to have a plan of attack if, and when, opportunities arise.
So we’re just going to leave this right here:
One of the joys of travelling overseas is having the chance to experience things you could never do at home. And those moments mean even more when you get to share them with your children and see the wonder, excitement and joy they bring.
The icing on a Sun Peaks holiday is its amazing menu of unforgettable Canadian winter wonderland activities and adventures that you can experience as a family and always treasure. Some of our favourites include:
Kids grow up too fast, so taking time away from regular life as a family is priceless. It can also create some our warmest memories, as a child and parent. What makes those special moments so precious is the happiness we feel when we share or quietly remember them – whether it’s the day we arrive home or years from now.
And that’s what Sun Peaks is really all about.
Blue Powder Insider Tip, Sam says: “The longer you stay, the more free nights you get. 7 nights, 1 free, 10 nights 2 free, etc.”
Here’s a company in Canada has got you covered with a once in a lifetime guided ski tour in British Columbia and you’ll be wanting to go back for more! Fresh Adventures provides 9 days and 11 day guided ski tours with a professional guide who will show you all the best spots on the mountain so that you can go straight to the secret stashes on every skiing day.
Here is a sample itinerary for the 9-day tour, 6 of which are skiing days. Starting your tour in Kelowna and then travelling a couple of hours north to Revelstoke, where you’ll experience world-class snow, massive terrain, unparalleled vertical, tree skiing and untouched powder! Check into your hotel and then go into town for dinner, either as a group, or you can do your own thing. Your guide knows all the best restaurants and après ski bars.
Good question. All of the mountains that you will ski are approximately 20% beginner, 30% intermediate, 30% advanced, and 20% expert. Lessons are available at every mountain, and so are rentals. On the next day in Revelstoke you have breakfast and then head up the mountain for a day’s skiing on chutes, rolling tree lines, pillow lines, and headwalls. Then back down for dinner with the group or on your own. After that, you can take the ferry across the lake and soak in 104oF hot springs.
The following day you ski Revelstoke again.
Day 4 you head to Kicking Horse with its’ fantastic 360o view. Kicking Horse has plenty of beginner terrain, but is also well known for steep tree runs, chutes, and pillowy bowls. You can run top to bottom, or you can stay at the top using the “Stairway to Heaven” chair.
Day 5 you ski Kicking Horse again with the great runs in “Whitewall” if you are feeling brave, or you can laze in Eagle’s Eye Lodge enjoying a spectacular view and equally spectacular wine. Get in some après at the locals favourite – Whitetooth.
Day 6 and you are heading to Lussier Hot Springs in the “Valley of a Thousand Peaks” where you can enjoy a soak before heading West to Kootenay Pass, after which it’s the descent into Nelson. Here, although the town is relatively small, it has around 80 bars and restaurants, and lots of shops and cafes.
Day 7 it’s up to Whitewater for some steep tree skiing or plenty of groomed choices. The lodge food up here is so good that it has been voted best in the world – they even have their own cookbook. Later on, you can wallow in the grotto at Ainsworth Hot Springs.
Day 8 and it’s up to Whitewater again for skiing under the mighty Ymir Peak. The sun always shines on the patio at the bottom where you can relax with an ice-cold beer and watch the locals on the steepest slopes. Mike’s Place is where the locals hang out, but there is also Cantina for some Mexican food.
Day 9 is “relax and departure” day. Rest your legs after all that hard work, or wander around the shops and bars in Nelson. You can catch a bus to Vancouver, Kelowna, or Calgary, or take a shuttle to one of the two local airports. Also during your trip there are heaps of optional activities available such as dogsledding, snowshoeing, heli-skiing, cat skiing, spas, scenic flights.
Let your Ski Guide at Fresh Adventures know just what you are looking for on your tour and they will make your trip to Canada an amazing journey that will keep you coming back for MORE!!
What is the finest type of snow? Powder!!!
When you wake up at first light to find there is a fresh dump of snow, you’ll want to be the first one up there. Skiing powder means that you need momentum because if you don’t you’ll get bogged down. However, the powder can be very forgiving especially if you decide it’s time to crash – there are often thick piles of it. However, remember also that a fresh dump of snow can cover up some rocks or tree stumps – so be careful!
First is your position. You don’t want to be too far back. You need to keep your hands forward, which keeps your weight balanced. Some people will tell you to sit back more, but this can make you lose balance. Keep your hands in a position in which you would read a large newspaper, so this is about 6” outside your shoulders. You also need to have your skis closer together – not touching, but closer. This will help when you turn. (Talking of skis, the best skis for powder are fat skis. However, there is some dispute as to what constitutes a fat ski. It has been recorded as between as much as 120mm and 140mm, but looking at the forums the general consensus seems to be that a fat ski is between 90mm and 100mm).
Making turns, you want to imagine that you just have one very big ski. You need to turn your thighs rather than catching edges. If you imagine turns are rounded zig-zags down the hill, you squat on the straight lines and when you approach the turn stand up immediately so that your legs are nearly straight. This unweights you and is now when you turn.
If you ski as you would on hard snow and catch the lower edge to turn you will find that the lower ski will go under the snow and cross under your upper ski and you will have snow for breakfast, which is not what you want. Here’s a really big tip: those contours that look like bumps in the snow can be very useful. Here is where it takes knowledge to differentiate between “good” bumps and the ones that are going to give you a nasty fall. Having a guide who can teach you the difference between a good bump and one that is hiding a tree stump or a rock, is the best thing. It may cost a few extra dollars, but it is well worth it. Then you can identify the difference between the good and the bad and have information you will need for skiing powder.
Yes. When you have fallen flat on your face, which you will, don’t get disappointed – “It” happens. Give yourself time to catch your breath before continuing. Secondly, when you have had enough for the day, get down off the mountain and head for the après bar and order yourself a large one of whatever takes your fancy. Or preferably two or three!
Silver Star in British Columbia, Canada has a Victorian styled village centre that is compact and car-free. All of the buildings are brightly painted in a variety of different colours and there are wooden sidewalks with gas lighting – It’s a great atmosphere!
If you do, then Silver Star is as good as you will get. When you see the words “family resort” many people automatically think “small”. However, Silver Star has the third largest ski area in Canada with runs to suit all abilities. There is a good nursery slope area near the village called The Zone and it has a magic carpet and some nearby green runs to progress to. The Snowsports School has a wide range of classes for all abilities with Star Kids Daycare providing activities for kids from 18 months to five years, and which operates seven days a week. The Snowsports School has a dedicated team of instructors, claimed to be the most highly trained in Canada, and offers lessons at all levels in alpine skiing, freeriding, snowboarding, telemark, and Nordic. How Is Life On The Piste? The mountain has four main linked sectors.
The Vance Creek area is served by the Comet chair which starts below the village and has mainly fairly easy intermediate runs. From Vance Creek it is possible to ski to the Silver Woods high speed quad which covers an area of intermediate runs. From the top of the Comet chairlift you can also access the Attridge area which has some easy runs and also some short, but steep black runs. The Comet chairlift also links to the rear of the mountain which is the Putnam Creek area which has some blue runs and a lot of steep single and double black runs. On Fridays and Saturdays there is night skiing available. Putnam Creek also has groomed black runs and at least two are groomed every night. Heli-skiing is available as well.
During the week there is usually no problem of queues for the lifts, but at the weekends it gets busy and you may have to wait for the Putnam Creek and Comet chairlifts. There is also a terrain park of 16 acres called Rockstar Park on Vance Creek which is suitable for all abilities. Silver Star also boasts the “best Nordic skiing in North America” with no less than 105km of trails. The resort has an average of 7m of snow each year, which is not as much as some resorts, but it is sufficient.
The Lord Aberdeen Hotel is in the village centre and has one, two, and three bedroom apartment style suites. All rooms have cable TV, DVD, Wi-Fi, Balcony, and most units have a fireplace. In addition, bike storage is available, and there is use of a shared sauna, hot tub, and shared laundry facility. Some apartments are pet friendly for which an extra fee is charged. Snowbird Lodge offers a range of suites from a studio one bedroom to a three bedroom platinum suite which sleeps 8 – 9. Most of the suites described as Executive, Executive Plus, and Platinum offer a balcony and private outdoor hot tub and private laundry facilities. All have TV, DVD, and fireplace, while the larger suites also all have a fully fitted kitchen.
Silver Star is not as busy on the apres scene as some other resorts. Indeed, some reports say that the village is fairly quiet at night. It is certainly nowhere as busy as, say, Whistler. However, Long Johns Pub, located in the Lord Aberdeen Hotel is open from 11.00am to midnight and has live entertainment in mid-week. The Red Antler claims to be THE venue for live music from local and international bands. It is open from 11.00am to “late”. It offers locally sourced foods, wines from the Hester Creek Winery, and no less than 11 beers and a cider.
Den Bar And Bistro has live music on Tuesday, and Thursday through to Sunday evenings, and has a Rib night on Tuesdays and Global Spice Night on Thursdays serving such delicacies as Moroccan lamb, Kerala fish curry, and Halibut coconut curry. 1609 Restaurant and Lounge is based in Vance Creek Hotel and opened in 2014. It provides a wide range of craft beers, and a selected wine list including local Okanagan wines such as Blasted Church and Arrowleaf Cellar. It also has themed party nights with live music and local DJ’s. You can also take a sleigh ride dinner tour to the Wild Horseman’s Cabin which claims to serve the best homemade hot cocoa and hot cider you will ever taste, followed by a BBQ buffet dinner “fit for a king”.
Certainly. On the mountain there is snowshoeing, ice skating, and tubing.You can also go fat biking on bikes with fat tyres to cope with the snow. There is a shopping shuttle, snowmobiling, and hockey games. In addition there is a bowling alley, a climbing wall for the kids, yoga classes, and the Silver Star Museum, so there is plenty to keep you occupied when you’re not on the mountain.
Skiing in Canada during the spring has a number of advantages over the rest of the season, not the least of which is that if you visit during March – May, the slopes will be much quieter. Indeed, in many resorts you will only be skiing with the locals.
Of course, the daylight hours are longer. In the depths of winter many of the lifts close at 3.30pm or 4.00pm, but in April and May you can stay on the slopes longer. It is also warmer, so sitting in the sun with a drink or five for après ski becomes a pleasure. What’s more, in Canada you don’t need to pay for a guide or use avalanche safety equipment because all resorts have a ski area marked by ropes or signposts, and inside that area it is patrolled and avalanche controlled. So there are many reasons to ski in Canada in the spring.
This depends largely on your priorities. If you are looking for ski in/ski out then consider Big White. Virtually the whole village is ski in/ski out with even the main street being a designated ski run. It has 2,765 acres, categorised as 18% green, 54% blue, and 28% black, so there is enough area to cater for beginners. At the bottom of the village is an area called Happy Valley where you can go ice skating, tubing, ice climbing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing, and the gondola stays open until 10 pm.
The village has plenty of restaurants and bars catering for a very wide range of tastes and pockets. Snowshoe Sam’s has been voted #1 ski bar by Ski Canada Magazine and has 20 different beers on tap, daily drinks specials, a DJ every night, live bands at the weekend, pool tables, and video games. It serves food up until 10.00 pm and late night food includes what are described as “popular Aussie meat pies”.
There is a full service on mountain grocery store – The Market at Big White – which will deliver your order to your condo. Big White Beer and Wine has 30 craft ciders and beers, a selection of local spirits, and over 100 different wines from the nearby Okanagan Valley wineries.
Without doubt, Panorama is a very good choice. It is a village on two levels linked by a gondola which is free. The upper village is ski in/ski out and if you stay in one of the six Upper Village Condos you get free use of an outdoor hot pool, hot tubs, a sauna, waterslides, and a skating rink.
Childcare is readily available with Wee Wascals catering for 18 months to five, a combination of childcare and ski school available for kids from three upwards, and a list of babysitters in addition.
There are 2,847 acres of which 20% are green, 55% blue and 25% black. There are ten lifts, and heli-skiing is also available.
On mountain dining is catered for in one of three different locations, and there are several restaurants and bars in the villages including the Jackpine Bar in the lower village and a brand new steakhouse and restaurant called Cliffhanger Restaurant.
Probably the biggest resort in Canada, both in terms of its’ 8,171 acres of slopes (18% green, 55% blue, 27% black) is Whistler in British Columbia. It has lots of bars, cafes, restaurants, shops, and an après scene at the lift base.
Whistler is very beginner friendly and has opened new learning areas this season. In addition there are top to bottom green runs for beginners to try once they have finished on the nursery slopes.
At the base of the Creekside Gondola is Dusty’s Bar & BBQ which was named after a stuffed horse brought into the village one day in 1979 and which stayed in the bar for ten years. The bar area is huge and one half has a gallery around it. Some really serious après goes on in here.
Located at the foot of Blackcomb Mountain is Merlin’s Bar & Grill which is the home of the local band The Hairfarmers (don’t ask!). Plenty of music and party-time goes on here daily from 11.00 am.
The Garibaldi Lift Co. Bar & Grill claims to be world-renowned as THE place to après and sits above the Whistler Gondola building where you can watch the skiers on Whistler Mountain. Claimed to be the Mecca for those who understand that every day should “end with beers and tall tales”, the GLC is open from 11.00 am until late.
There is great shopping in Whistler and plenty of non-skiing activities including an Olympic size skating rink, outdoor pool, ice climbing, tubing, snowmobiling, zip lining, and eagle watching tours.
One of the best value resorts is Banff in Alberta because it is at one end of an incredible drive through national parks and has a wide range of accommodation to take care of the demand in summer. In the winter and spring this accommodation becomes reasonably priced.
If you like bars and restaurants, then Banff will serve you well as it has over 100 of them in the village together with seemingly endless souvenir shops. There are three ski areas each served by a free shuttle, the nearest of which is Mt Norquay which is very small at just 190 acres. However, Sunshine Village which is 20 minutes from the town has 3,358 acres and Canada’s first heated chairlift which was installed last season. The largest area is Lake Louise which is 45 minutes from the town and offers 4,200 acres serviced by ten lifts.
Banff itself has some 9,000 residents and over 4 million visitors every year. There are over 130 bars, restaurants, cafes, and bakeries, and there is a great nightlife scene. There are also eight art galleries and three museums in the town, and there are plenty of non-skiing activities like dogsledding, snowshoeing, ice skating, and more.
Booking a spring ski holiday can be a testing experience, especially if you have never done it before. There are so many things to remember, and once your plane has taken off it will be too late to do anything about it if you have forgotten something. So here is how to do it and ensure that you look like a champ rather than a chump.
The first thing is to decide upon your resort. In some respects the world is your oyster as far as countries go, but for many people Canada is the country of choice. In March the weather starts to get warmer and in April there are long days with plenty of sun and the pistes are much less crowded.
Some resorts have a good mix of slopes while others are for the more experienced skier. If you have beginners or even complete novices in your group you need a resort with plenty of green slopes and nursery areas. Check out the statistics for the resort you are considering. All of them will have figures which show the percentage of green, blue, and black slopes and if you have beginners you really need around 20% of the slopes to be green, preferably with a closed-off area and magic carpet so that they can practice and gain confidence before going out on the piste.
If you have toddlers you will need to ensure that there is a nursery or crèche that you can leave them in while you are on the slopes, and you may also want a babysitter in the evenings. What about ski schools? Check that their instructors are fully qualified and that they speak English (most in Canada do). Have a look at their reviews on a website such as trip advisor. What sort of fees do they charge? That is going to have to be factored in to your holiday cost.
The costs of resorts can vary, and sometimes by quite a lot. A very good guide is the cost of lift passes since they have a tendency to reflect the overall costs associated with the resort. Some resorts offer free lift passes to under-12’s. When you have decided on your budget, add an extra 10% to cover unexpected items: it also gives you a bit of breathing space if you see a “must-have” item or fancy a gourmet dinner out.
In most resorts there is a range of different accommodation available, the most expensive being hotels. Most hotels are bed and breakfast with dinner in the hotel restaurant an extra. Do you want hot tubs, pools and spas? Is there a hotel laundry?
Some people prefer as everything is done for you, but you may prefer a self-catering apartment. Most of these in Canada have TV, Wi-Fi, kitchen, washer/dryer, and some have hot tubs and pools available. If you are self-catering in order to keep the costs down but you decide to eat out in the village every evening the expense can soon start to mount up. Some hotels offer unlimited free wine with dinner which is another consideration if you like the odd glass of vino.
Where is the accommodation? Is it ski in/ski out? Many hotels and apartments are within a minute or two’s walk of the nearest lift, but if not does the resort have lockers available so that you don’t have to carry your skis around with you? Is there a free shuttle service? Many resorts have free shuttles to the slopes and some have free shuttles to and from the airport.
What amenities are available in the village? Do you want a choice of restaurants and bars? Do you love to shop?
Some resorts are really into the apres scene while with others it is not such a big factor and they are quieter. If your idea of a great night is to head home and watch TV by the fire, then the apres scene will not be so important. However, if you want to party hard and late into the night you will want a range of bars and night clubs.
What else is there to do apart from skiing? Is there a terrain park? What about dog-sledding, tubing, bowling, ice skating, sleigh rides? Some resorts have a sports centre with pool and an ice climbing wall. Facilities will vary from one resort to another.
Do you have your own skis? If you do, so much the better. However, many people prefer to hire skis at the resort, but ski hire prices have been increasing over recent years. However, against that has to be set the cost of transporting skis and the inconvenience of carting them around with you.
You can also hire boots, but this can be a chancy business. Hire boots are not designed for your foot and if you have an ill-fitting pair you can spend an uncomfortable time out on the slopes. If you plan on skiing regularly you are far better off buying a pair or even having them made by a professional bootmaker. Certainly it is an expense but one that is well worth considering.
The same thing applies to helmets. Yes, you can rent, but again it is better if you have your own.
In addition to boots and helmets you will need thermals, ski socks, ski trousers, ski jacket, gloves and goggles.
There certainly is: you need ski insurance. You may be able to get through your credit card, but if you buy travel insurance make certain that skiing is covered, since many travel insurance policies specifically exclude skiing.
So you can see that booking a spring ski holiday involves a lot of careful planning, of which the team at Blue Powder Travel is happy to take care of for you. Once you have ticked everything off the list you can look forward to a wonderful week out on the powder.
One ski resort that ought to be on any serious skier’s bucket list to visit is Aspen in Colorado. In a similar manner to Whistler in Canada, Aspen has just about everything you can think of – not just for skiing, but shopping, the arts, hiking, apres, dining out, and a whole lot more.
Is four mountains enough for you? There is Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass, and Buttermilk, and they are all within a short drive of each other. You can, of course, hire a car, but there is a free shuttle service between all four mountains.
Overall, there are over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain with about 330 marked trails, and there are 42 lifts. Aspen Mountain is 11,212’ high and has a vertical of 4,352’. Snowmass is 12,510’ with a vertical of 4,406’. Buttermilk is smaller at 9,900’ and 2,030’, while Aspen Highlands is 12,392’, and 4,352’.
Buttermilk is the place to go for novice skiers as it has gentle slopes for all the family, and beginner slopes which are not crowded. It also has a learning centre for young skiers called The Hideout.
Aspen Mountain has some easy terrain at the top, but it also has two very long runs – Copper Bowl and Spar Gulch – which are for experienced skiers. For this reason beginners are discouraged from trying Aspen, although there is always the possibility of returning down the mountain on the Silver Queen gondola.
Snowmass is a huge mountain and has a continuous vertical drop of 1,343m – the biggest in the US. However, it has 3,362 acres of skiable terrain, much of it intermediate, but still has plenty of snow for beginners and for experts. It is 20km outside Aspen, but is well worth the trip.
According to Conde Nast Traveler Magazine, Aspen has the best apres ski scene in North America. There is The Oasis mobile pop-up champagne bar which is towed around the resort on a snowcat and covers different areas every week, but it is only open in the spring season.
On Aspen Mountain as you ski down Little Nell, you’ll see the hotel of the same name with a large party going on in its’ patio which is called the Ajax Tavern. It serves lunch, apres, and dinner and has a reputation for truffle fries – a delicacy not to be missed – and the famous Ajax double cheeseburger. It also has a very wide ranging choice of drinks. Ajax Tavern is right next to the Silver Queen gondola.
Over on Aspen Highlands is Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro where the apres scene actually starts at about 1.00 pm. Serving a huge range of wines, beers and champagne, you can see the amazing twin peaks of Maroon Bells just 12 miles away.
A short distance from the base of Aspen Mountain is the Limelight Lounge at the Limelight Hotel. Apres starts at 3.00 pm and goes on until 7.00 pm with local bands from Thursdays until Mondays. There are pizzas for $10, draft beers for $4 and Bud lights for $3. There is also a range of speciality cocktails.
Over on Snowmass is Elk Camp which has a spacious bar with modern decor for chilling out, and as you might guess there is a wide selection of drinks on offer.
There are over 200 micro-breweries in Colorado, and on East Hopkins Avenue in the town is the Aspen Brewing Company. Here you can try their Ajax Pilsner or Independence Pass Ale, and in the winter they offer Midnight Mine Imperial Stout and Pyramid Peak Porter in addition. They also have live music and “Tappin’ Tuesday” when you can taste their spiced Blonde, and Habanero Pilsner. Aspen Brewing Company is a rare treat for all who love beer.
Snowmass has the Treehouse Kids Adventure Centre which is where the youngsters can get a mixture of lessons on kid friendly slopes and also enjoy games and fun indoors in the interactive play rooms. There is also childcare available for babies and toddlers.
In addition, of course, there is The Hideout on Buttermilk for young beginners.
It is not just on the slopes that kids need to be entertained, and there are plenty of other things to do. For instance, on Friday nights above the Elk Camp gondola on Snowmass they hold what are called Ullr Nights. There is dining in the Elk Camp Restaurant, live music, bonfires, night-time tubing, and snow-biking.
In the centre of Aspen there is an ice skating rink where you can rent skates. It’s on East Durant Avenue.
The Aspen Art Museum is on East Hyman Avenue and provides a series of workshops and programmes for budding artists and their families.
Aspen Centre for Environmental Studies has a series of family-friendly nature tours on both Aspen and Snowmass Mountains, and in addition at Hallam Lake which is just north of the downtown area.
Twelve miles south of Aspen is the Pine Creek Cookhouse which offers lunch and dinner and which you can access via a sleigh ride. If you go for lunch there are cross country skiing trails at nearby Ashcroft which is also noted for its’ historic ghost town.
Wheeler Opera House opened in 1889, has been burned down twice, but still continues to host operas, comedy shows, concerts, and movies.
The Hotel Jerome is the oldest hotel in Aspen having been opened in 1889 and is also one of the most luxurious. It has 93 rooms, which have recently been refurbished, and has a restaurant, a saloon-type bar, and a spa.
Possibly the most expensive hotel in Aspen is The Little Nell Hotel which is also extremely luxurious and has two restaurants, three bars, and a heated outdoor pool and hot tub. There is free use of snow bikes, and complimentary shuttle services around town, to all four mountains, and to and from the airport, but then you might expect that when you consider that the price of a room is “from” $395 per night.
At the other end of the scale is the Snowmass Mountain Chalet which is a ski in/ski out lodge. Breakfast and a soup lunch are included in the price of a room (from $155) and it has a heated outdoor pool and hot tub.
St Moritz Lodge is in the town centre, and has a steam room, and an outdoor heated pool and hot tub. Priced from $134 it gets excellent reviews.
In mid-range is The Molly Gibson Lodge in West Main Street. As with most hotels is has the traditional outdoor pool and hot tub. It also has a very wide breakfast menu, together with FREE apres drinks and snacks, and an airport shuttle, all of which is included in the room price which is from $159.
Sun Peaks Ski Resort is in British Columbia in Canada, and is approximately four hours’ drive from Vancouver. However, it is only a 45 minute drive from the nearest airport which is at Kamloops.
Since Sun Peaks is so far inland it has snow which is light and dry: it’s called “champagne powder”. However, although it is a fair way from the coast, it is still near enough to get all the storms coming in off the Pacific Ocean so it receives a lot of snowfall. It also has more than its’ fair share of sun – more than any other resort in Canada: the clue is in the name. So there are two good reasons to visit Sun Peaks right away: plenty of snow – plenty of sun. What more could you ask for?
After Whistler, Sun Peaks is the largest ski resort in Canada. There are 4270 acres of skiable terrain, 135 named runs, over 50 km of Nordic trails, and there is a 10 acre terrain park. On some of the Nordic trails you can take your dog with you if you wish. There are three mountains, all of which are accessible from the village, and the vertical drop is 882 metres. As all the runs lead to the village it makes skiing with the family that much easier, and if you have forgotten something it’s a simple matter to pop back to your hotel room, before you get on the lift.
The village itself is ski in/ski out and was named Best Ski In/Ski Out Village In Canada in 2009 by Ski Canada magazine.
One of the top rated bars in Sun Peaks is Bottoms Bar & Grill which has a lively apres ski time, and offers a daily drinks special. It was awarded five stars by TripAdvisor.
Bento’s Day Lodge provides breakfast, lunch, and beer – cafeteria style – and is home to what it describes as its’ “world famous handmade gooey cinnamon buns”. It sells lift tickets and has storage and lockers for guests. You can take your own lunch if you wish, or you can let them spoil you with theirs. Free Wi-Fi included.
Morrissey’s is an Irish pub which has live sporting events showing every night.
Oya is a Japanese sushi restaurant which offers your favourite sushi roll, noodles, or anything else Japanese that you fancy. They have sake available as well.
Vertical Café has hot dogs, vegetarian chilli, wraps, fresh made paninis, quesadillas, smoothies, shakes, and speciality coffees. Breakfast is served all day, and soup is made freshly every morning.
The Steakhouse at Sun Peaks Lodge provides house cuts of 100% Canadian beef, barbecue ribs, seafood, and has a great wine list. Home-made pastries and fresh barista coffee to finish.
Let’s be honest: any sort of ski holiday is not going to come under the heading of “cheap”!
However, compared with somewhere such as Whistler, Sun Peaks rates are considerably less. After accommodation, one of the biggest expenses of a ski holiday is the cost of lift tickets. You have to get up the mountain somehow, and unless you plan on walking you are going to have to pay for it. Compared to Whistler and some of the larger resorts in the northwest of the US, lift tickets at Sun Peaks are considerably more affordable.
Not only that, if you book your holiday early and book your lift tickets at the same time you can also get discounts on them. And don’t forget that kids under 12 ski free.
If you are looking for a family friendly resort, then Sun Peaks will suit you to a “t”. Sundance Kids Centre is available to take care of kids from 18 months to 5 years and offers a range of exciting activities. There is also a brand new NHL size skating rink which has just been opened for the 2016/2017 winter season. It is located next door to the Sports Centre which is just a few minutes’ walk from the village. Furthermore, kids ski free when you buy a five day or more adult lift ticket.
Each visit includes a written report and recommendations about patios for any issues that may arise.
There is a sports and aquatics centre and a sledding hill, and also spa services available all within a few minutes’ walk of each other.
On Thursday evenings there is a Fondue Dinner & Evening Descent. First there is a dinner with live music at the Sunburst Mid Mountain Restaurant (everything in Sun Peaks seems to have the word “sun” in it) followed by a cruise down the five mile lantern lit ski run with your guide. The snow limo is available for those who need it for last minute errands in town. The Sun Peaks resort is the perfect destination for winter and the spring seasons for both snow and adventure holidays.
Yes. Compared to other resorts like Whistler or Banff, Sun Peaks is considerably less crowded. This is true even at peak times such as Christmas and the New Year. There is plenty of space on the slopes, and you don’t have to queue for the lifts – another very good reason to visit Sun Peaks.
If you are planning to take a winter holiday in Whistler, British Columbia, you have a wide choice of places in which to stay. What you choose will depend upon your budget and whether you want everything done for you or whether you prefer self-catering, which will save you money.
Basically your choice is between hotels, condos, townhomes, and chalets. If you take the view, as many people do, that you are on holiday and you don’t want to come back after apres ski and start cooking dinner, but you want someone else to do that, then you need a hotel. This will also save you preparing breakfast, making the bed, and all of the other things that you normally do at home. Of course, you will pay for the privilege because the hotels in Whistler are not cheap. But then, you only get one winter holiday a year, so what the heck?
There are some very good hotels in Whistler indeed, some of them four star and with good reviews. All hotels have 24 hour reception.
One of the best is the Delta Village Whistler Suite. This is situated just one minute’s walk from both the Whistler and Blackcomb gondolas, so it’s a case of out of the hotel and straight up the mountain.
There is a choice of studio, one, two, or three-bedroom suites, which have fireplaces, balconies, and kitchens, but you can take your meals in the restaurant. Breakfast is complimentary. The hotel has free Wi-Fi.
The Delta Village has a sauna, a heated saltwater pool, a fitness centre/gym, and two outside hot tubs. There is an onsite laundry, storage for your bikes, and you can take your dog, as the hotel is pet friendly. There is also a day spa, and the hotel offers a complimentary resort shuttle service.
At the foot of Blackcomb Mountain is the Fairmont Chateau Whistler which boasts its’ own golf course and an on-site wedding chapel service for just married couples. It has a choice of restaurants, bars, and lounges, and also provides full room service. The hotel states that for the “ultimate luxury” you can reserve a room on the Fairmont Gold Floor.
In addition to its’ golf course, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler has tennis courts, a sauna, steam room, hot tubs, pool, spa, health club, gym, fitness room, massage parlour, laundry service, baby sitting service, complimentary coffee in the lobby, free resort shuttle, high speed internet, is wheelchair accessible, and is ski in/ski out. In addition, there is valet parking, the hotel is pet friendly, and it claims to be green/eco-friendly.
In Whistler Creekside is the Nita Lake Lodge Hotel on the shores of Nita Lake, and with mountain or valley views. It boasts a rating by Tripadvisor as one of the Top Ten Luxury Hotels in Canada. There are studio, one, two, and larger speciality suites available, each of which has slate tile flooring in the bathroom. There are lounges and bars, and a restaurant. As you would expect there is free Wi-Fi, and there is a spa, hot tub, and gym. Massage services are available. There is a complimentary shuttle service, and ski valet and ski storage lockers at the base of Whistler Mountain.
There certainly is. You could consider some of the many condos and lodges in Whistler which are located throughout the town from the Village to Creekside. Amenities vary, and include spacious rooms, recreation choices, and offer self-catering options or full daily housekeeping.
Evolution – it’s the name of the lodge – is a contemporary lodge in Whistler Creekside which is described as a lively yet laid back alternative to the Village. Amenities here include a choice of restaurants, a bank, grocery store, shops, and what is claimed to be one of the best apres ski bars in Whistler called Dusty’s.
Evolution is just yards from the Creekside gondola, and it has an outdoor heated pool, two hot tubs, a sauna, a games room, a fitness room, a eucalyptus steam room, and a media room which shows two films every day. There is free Wi-Fi. There are one and two bedroom suites, and one three bedroom suite. All have a living area with real fireplace, a dining area, fully fitted kitchens, and a washing machine and dryer. Each suite also has a balcony from which to enjoy the valley and mountain views.
Also in Creekside is First Tracks Lodge which is described as “a unique collection of designer suites which blends unparalleled luxury with an inspired location”. There are one, two, three, and four bedroom suites, each of which has a gas fireplace, a “gourmet” kitchen, washing machine and dryer, and private patios. First Tracks Lodge is very close to both Whistler Kids Ski and Snowboard School, and Whistler Blackcomb Childcare which caters for toddlers from 18 months to four years.
Amenities include a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, steam room, exercise gym, fitness room, a library, free Wi-Fi, undercover parking, a BBQ/picnic area, wheelchair access, and it is right next to the Creekside Express Gondola and is ski in/ski out.
Well, chalets and town homes are much the same thing apart from the fact that townhomes are in the centre of the town/village while chalets can be away from the centre. It really rather depends what you want. If you want to be in the centre of the Village where it’s all going on, and be able to pop in and out of the bars and restaurants then you need a town home. On the other hand, if you want to be self-catering and have some peace and quiet you might need a chalet a little away from the “busy-ness” of the centre of things.
For example, Falcon’s Nest Estate is not what we would describe as an estate, but simply a four level, four bedroom home in Blueberry Hill and is at the end of a lane. The master bedroom has a king bed, and the second and third bedrooms have a queen bed, while the fourth has two sets of twin bunk beds. There’s a media room with large flat screen TV, and a gourmet kitchen, together with a 10 person outdoor hot tub. It also has an elevator.
The home is surrounded by trees and has a parking spot at the Delta Village in Whistler Village. Built in the classic log and beam style it has floor to ceiling windows in the main living room and vaulted ceilings.
So, as you can see, you have a wide choice of places to stay in Whistler for a winter skiing holiday depending on your budget, and ranging from complete done-for-you luxury to a chalet or town house which is a home from home.
Rest assured that whatever your choice, Whistler is one of the finest skiing resorts not just in Canada, but in the whole of the world.
By the way, if you own an office in Sydney, Australia and you need to divide up the space so your employees can have their own area to work. There are many people selling second hand office partitions.
Big White is a purpose built ski resort in British Columbia and has more accommodation than any other resort in the state except Whistler. The whole village is ski in/ski out and there are some 2,765 acres of skiable terrain. The summit of Big White Mountain is at 7,608’ with a vertical drop of 2,549’ and the area receives around 300 inches of snowfall annually. The resort is less than an hour’s drive from Kelowna airport.
Despite its’ size, Big White is relatively quiet on the slopes except at weekends. There are 118 “designated” trails and a further 27 unnamed trails. 18% of the trails are green, while 56% are intermediate or blue, and the remaining 26% of trails are black. There is a variety of different lifts including an eight passenger high speed gondola, and one children’s and one adult’s magic carpet, which between them are capable of taking 28,000 people per hour uphill. There is also now a tubing carpet lift which opened this season.
Near the top of the mountain there are trees everywhere and they usually stay white all winter. Locally, they are known as “snow ghosts”. They can be fun to ski through on clear days, but are almost invisible in a white-out. In fact, one problem can be that overall visibility may be poor at the top on some days because of snow, fog, or clouds.
The resort is rather spread out but has a family-friendly centre which is free of traffic. Condos and apartments are built attractively, mostly of stone and wood. The village centre has a choice of 18 restaurants, delis and cafés, and there is also a liquor store and a small grocery store.
Chateau Big White is a full service 3-star hotel which is near the ski school and only a minute’s walk to the lift. It has its’ own restaurant and lounge, and features an outdoor hot tub. There is heated underground car parking and a European day spa. The One Bedroom hotel room sleeps up to four and features a kitchenette, gas fireplace and TV.
What is described as a Superior Kitchenette/Loft is similar but has two single beds in the loft and a double sleeper sofa in the lounge. There is also One Bedroom Plus which sleeps up to 10 and has a full sized kitchen and two bathrooms.
Chateau Big White has some great deals on for the 2017 spring season, such as pay for 6 nights and get 1 free, pay for 8 nights and get 2 free, and pay for 11 nights and get 3 free.
Trappers Crossing is 4-star premium condos that are a minute from the lift and are just opposite the village centre and Hummingbird green run. There is heated car parking, ski lockers, and a café and a tapas bar on site. One Bedroom sleeps up to four and has a fully equipped kitchen, TV, gas fireplace, washer/dryer, and a private balcony with hot tub. Two Bedroom sleeps 6 and Three Bedroom sleeps 8 and both are similarly equipped but have 2 bathrooms. You can also get deals here for spring 2017.
Stonebridge Lodge is a collection of three separate buildings housing 75 executive suites and is located in the village centre next to the Bullet Express chairlift. Accommodation is similar to Trappers Crossing and features One Bedroom which sleeps 4, Two Bedroom sleeping 4-5, and Two Bedroom with Den sleeping 6. All include a fully equipped kitchen, LCD TV, gas fireplace, and balcony with private hot tub, while the two larger suites both have 2 bathrooms. There is underground heated car parking, and an on-site restaurant.
Just a short distance from the village centre is Southpoint 24. Here is what one reviewer said about it: “All of the rooms are decorated and appointed perfectly to help you relax. TV’s, Stereo, Video Games, DVD’s, CD’s, Appliances, Steam Shower, Washer and Dryer, you name it, it’s there!”
“The BBQ sizzled up beautiful steaks, the hot tub relaxed and warmed us after a full day on the mountain, and the music and movie selections went perfect with our apres ski beverage(s).”
At Snowshoe Sam’s there is a DJ and live entertainment on the ground floor. The same applies to Blarney Stone Irish Tavern which is in The Inn At Big White, The Globe, and Sessions Taphouse.
At Snowshoe Sam’s there are rave reviews of the “melt in the mouth steaks” in the upstairs restaurant, and the Kettle Valley Steakhouse at Happy Valley also has good reviews. The 6 Degrees Bistro is tapas-style and has a “brilliant seven course taster menu” according to one reviewer, but it is far from cheap. In the main square in the village is The Woods which has a patio with a firepit.
All of the best restaurants include a selection of the finest local Okanagan wines since this is a great wine-producing area. Indeed, there are over 130 vineyards in the valley. You can book some interesting wine tours visiting the local vineyards for wine tasting.
There is a very large tubing park – the Mega Snow Coaster – and you can go ice skating on an Olympic size outdoor ice rink. You can go dog sledding, sleigh riding, or take a snowmobile tour. You can also go snowshoeing through the 25 km or so of Nordic trails. In addition, there is a 60’ high ice climbing wall for those who are feeling brave enough. There is also a Sno-Limo which is a cross between a dog sled and a chair on skis so that anyone who doesn’t ski can still join in the fun on the mountain.
In addition, there are a variety of free mountain tours, and there is also a free shuttle into Kelowna so that you can go shopping for groceries and other mementos of a great holiday if you have not hired a car. In fact, it is almost not worth the expense of hiring a car in Big White because most of the time you will be on the mountain and everything else that you will need is close to hand.
In short, Big White is a great idea for your spring 2017 holiday.
Maybe you have it at the back of your mind that you’d like to take a ski holiday in the 2016/2017 season but you haven’t actually got around to doing anything about it. The plain fact is that it is never too early to book a ski holiday: indeed, some people book their ski holiday for next year as soon as they get home from the present one.
There are a number of reasons why people book a ski holiday 12 months in advance. Not the least of these is the fact that by booking early you get the biggest choice of apartments, chalets, or hotels – whichever is your preference.
This is especially important if you are in a group of eight people or more and want to book an apartment. It’s a fact that the large apartments are extremely popular and there are never enough of them to satisfy everyone, so if you want a large apartment you would be well advised to book it early. Of course, you may have stayed in an apartment in the past and found it very cramped, but in many resorts things have changed considerably. Modern apartments have plenty of space, they are comfortable, and they come equipped with everything you need. Some of them have swimming pools, spas, and saunas, so it is obvious that they are going to be in short supply.
Despite that, a lot of apartments offer discounts for early booking. You may be able to save as much as 20% on an apartment by booking it early. Some of the larger apartments that hold six or more people offer group discounts as well. Later on there will be no discounts and you may not find the exact apartment that you want and have to settle for second best.
Of course another very important point is that if you want to book a ski holiday for Christmas and the New Year you need to remember that so do a lot of other families. These dates and half term dates can get very booked up, as can Easter, so once again if you want the best choice you need to book early.
In addition, there are some all-inclusive holidays available where you can obtain discounts for booking early and which include lift passes, ski hire with boots, ski lessons, meals, drinks, and snacks.
You most certainly can, and you can get some hefty discounts on these as well. One recent promotion offered half price lift passes on a wide choice of chalet and hotel ski holidays in Europe, and this included some peak dates at Christmas and the New Year. Other resorts in Italy and Andorra were offering two for one lift passes, which comes to much the same thing. Of course, another benefit is that by purchasing lift passes in advance you can get right out onto the slopes rather than spending your first morning in a long queue.
Much the same thing applies here. For instance, the Holiday Inn at Tremblant in Canada was offering some good discounts together with two for one ski or snowboard hire for parties of four or more sharing. Other destinations in France, Italy, and Austria were also offering savings of up to 50% on ski and snowboard hire with boots.
Yes. A number of resorts have Baby and Toddler Weeks in a range of different chalets and apartments. Some have free infant places and half price nursery places. As an example, Chalet Hotel Crystal 2000 in Courchevel, France, was offering savings of up to 30% on selected Baby and Toddler Weeks.
Over at Val d’Isere, also in France, there were five chalets offering a free nanny on family holidays. That means you can go skiing knowing that someone is taking care of the kids.
Of course some of these discounts are only available on selected dates so are unlikely to be offered on half term weeks, Christmas, or the New Year, so you have to be able to take your holiday at off peak times in order to take advantage of them.
Having said that, Christmas is the perfect time for taking a ski holiday, with great snow, decorated accommodation, festive nights in front of a log fire, and plenty of festive food and wine. You can spend all day out on the slopes and come home to a warm and cosy welcome. Christmas Day is on a Sunday this year, so a lot of ski holidays have had their departure dates changed to allow for it. Many are starting on Friday December 23rd for seven nights.
Some chalet holidays are starting on Sunday December 18th for eight nights, Tuesday December 20th for seven nights, and Saturday December 24th for seven nights, but you will need to book very soon if you want a choice.
Sure. Cheaper flights. As Christmas approaches the price of flights is going to go only one way, so booking early will save you some money before you actually get to your resort. Of course, another benefit of booking early is that the deposits are much lower, so you have a few weeks to save up some money in order to ensure that you don’t run short of cash when you are actually in your resort. Unless you book an all-inclusive holiday there are always going to be a few extras that you might not have considered, or you see something that you desperately want to buy, so it’s always good to have the cash available without having to worry.
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One of the biggest benefits of booking your skiing holiday early is that it gives you that certain peace of mind. It’s all done and dusted, and you don’t have the nagging worry that the apartment or chalet you want will not be available later on. You can sit back and relax, and perhaps brag to your mates that your holiday is booked, even if theirs is not.
The Resort Inn Chitose is located right in the heart Nozawa-onsen hot spring village at the foot of Kenashi-yama Mountain. It is Just a 2 minute walk from The Resort Inn to the Hikage Ski Run. Restaurants and excellent Izakaya bars are set amongst the narrow, winding streets of Nozawa and all within walking distance.
The accomodation offers a wonderful homely atmosphere and great value. Room styles are both Western and Japanese design, with all rooms have free Wi-Fi, heating, TV and en-suite rooms come with a shower and a bath tub.
On top of Kenashi-yama Mountain is Nozawa-onsen ski resort, which is rich in powder snow and loved by skiers and boarders. The 13 public Spa Baths are located close to this property and a recognised symbol of Nozawa with its beautiful bath house and atmosphere and 90℃ hot water continuously bubbling up, makes for a great way to relax those muscles at the end of a day on the powdery slopes.
See more Nozawa Onsen Accommodation Deals and Packages.
When you are planning a ski holiday the accent must be well and truly on the planning. This means careful consideration of everything that needs to be taken into account in order to ensure that you don’t arrive at your resort and realise that you have forgotten a vital piece of equipment, clothing, or accessory. Even if you are a seasoned skier it is all too easy to make a mistake. Let’s face it: we’ve all done it at one time or another.
The most important thing is to make a written list of everything required, and do it well in advance – not the week before your flight. This gives you time to double check everything: when you do, you will often find that you have missed something out.
Possibly the best way to answer the question is to consider the times that are not a good choice. School holidays are going to be very busy and just about everything is going to cost more. That includes flights, accommodation, ski hire, pretty much everything, because airlines, travel agents, and resort business owners know that they are going to be fully booked and can charge more. Christmas and the New Year is another time to avoid if possible for the same reasons.
After New Year is over, the first two or three weeks of January are generally quieter in most resorts, and the slopes will be less crowded and ski schools less busy.
The best ones are the ones that are geared towards catering for children and/or have day care for toddlers. There are some that provide all sorts of different activities for children when they are not out on the powder, which keeps them happy, and lets mum and dad get out on to the blue and black slopes. Not all resorts are geared up for families, especially the smaller ones.
Check how far your chalet or the accommodation is from the piste and the centre of the resort. The nearer the better. Some accommodation is ski in/ski out which gives you an early start without any hassle.
Not only can you book ski lessons in advance, it is an excellent idea. You can also book ski hire, snowboard hire, and lift passes in advance, and we would recommend that you do. It means that you won’t have to spend half your first day in long queues and carrying lots of cash when you could be out on the slopes.
If you want to hire a car and travel around the area you can also book that in advance. In addition, in some resorts you can pre-book spa treatments, either for yourself or for a loved one as a birthday present for instance.
Not only is travel insurance an extremely good idea, with some tour operators it is a requirement. You should always take out travel insurance and make certain that it covers all of your possible needs. Some insurers will offer travel insurance to the elderly and those with medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s and heart disease.
The answer to that is “it depends”. While some people may want to get away from the rest of the world as far as possible, and leave laptops and iPads at home, others will want to bring all their gadgets and phones and stay connected when not out on the slopes.
If you are in the latter group you need to check your accommodation. Some resorts have accommodation where there is only Wi-Fi in the reception area, not in the rooms.
Again, it depends. Nearly all resorts will have a TV set in the rooms and in some cases two TV sets. However, you should check if satellite TV is available. In a lot of French resorts TV can only pick up local stations, which is fine if you happen to be fluent in French, but not a lot of use if you are not.
If you are self-catering, end of stay cleaning is not usually included in the cost of accommodation unless specifically stated. Furthermore, cleaning products are not supplied. In the majority of resorts you can opt to pay for end of stay cleaning but even then it does not usually include the kitchen.
This means that the dishwasher must be emptied, and all the dishes cleaned, the refrigerator must be emptied of food, and the bins taken out. If you leave the property in anything but a clean condition you can expect a sum to be deducted from your deposit.
This will vary from one resort to another. Some resorts are very big on apres ski and restaurant accommodation and many people go to a particular resort for that very reason.
However, some of the smaller resorts concentrate almost entirely on the skiing, and they may be little more than villages with not much in the way of bars and restaurants. This is another very good reason for checking out everything in detail before you decide to make a booking. Above all, you are having a holiday and you are supposed to be enjoying yourself, so it is well worthwhile taking the time and trouble to ensure that the resort you choose offers the facilities that you want.
This is why we said at the outset that the emphasis must be on the planning. If you adopt the attitude “I’ve got next week off work: let’s go skiing” you will very likely find that you get to the resort and realise that you have forgotten some things that you should have brought with you, and/or that the resort doesn’t have all the facilities that you and your loved ones require.
So get down to it. Get some paper out and make a list of all the things that you want from a resort and then check each one off as you look at the facilities. Make another list of everything that you need to take, and that will ensure that you do so. This way you can be certain that you will have the perfect winter holiday.
For the keen skier trying to decide where to go this winter, Canada really should come top of the list. If you have been before, you will know why, and if you have not been before it’s a great idea to make up for lost time and book in at one of the famous Canadian resorts.
The majority of the big ski resorts are on the western side of the country, just Tremblant being on the eastern side between Ottawa and Montreal. The problem for many people is not just choosing to go to Canada, but choosing which of the many resorts to visit. The major resort in British Columbia is Whistler Blackcomb approximately 70 miles north of Vancouver, while most of the other big resorts are in Alberta next door.
Whistler Blackcomb has just about everything that you could need as a family. It was developed in the 1960’s by a group of Vancouver businessmen for the express purpose of being a ski resort and, as you no doubt know, became big enough to host the 2010 Winter Olympics. As far as skiing goes, it has over 8,000 acres of terrain of which 18% is green runs, 55% blue, and 27% black, which is a good mix for everyone from complete novices to expert.
Apart from skiing, Whistler offers a huge range of other activities such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ziplining, ice skating, ice climbing, bungee jumping, eagle viewing, ice fishing, tubing, dog sledding, hockey tours, and tree top adventures, just to name some.
There are three childcare centres for toddlers from 18 to 48 months. There are kids snowboard and ski lessons, and kids bike lessons. World class shopping is available (for those with world class pockets), and there is everything from a quick burger to fine dining in dozens of restaurants catering for all tastes. Whistler Blackcomb really does have it all.
You might want to take a look at Jasper/Marmot Basin in Alberta. It is set in a National Park and has some amazing scenery. Jasper is not a big town by any means but you could do worse than stay out of town at Jasper Park Lodge which was good enough for the Queen and Prince Philip to stay at in 2005.
The slopes at Marmot Basin are varied and not over-crowded. There are 84 trails including double black-diamond chutes in Charlie’s Bowl and along Eagle East. It also has the $8 million Canadian Rockies Express quad chair. At over 1 kilometre long it means that you can ski Marmot Basin slopes from top to bottom using just one lift.
Whistler Blackcomb scores highly here. The Longhorn Saloon and Grill is the most famous apres ski location, situated in the base station of Whistler Mountain. The Garibaldi Lift Co has a sun terrace and good music. Then there is Dubh Linn Gate Irish pub, Black’s Pub and Restaurant, and Dusty’s Bar and Barbecue in Whistler Creekside where you can play pool.
Mont Tremblant in Quebec is another good resort for apres ski. It is well known for weekend parties that go on for a very long time, although a little calmer during the week. La Forge is in the base station at Place St-Bernard and has a good bar with a fine view of the slopes.
Kicking Horse/Golden in Alberta is another good choice for apres ski. Peaks Grill at the base is one of the most popular bars. It has a selection of micro brewed beers and offers a range of pizzas, and is always busy. Corks Restaurant has a wide selection of entrees and – as you might have guessed from the name – a comprehensive wine list consisting of wines from around the world.
In Golden there is a choice of bars and pubs including Packers Place Inn and Pub, the Golden Taps, and the Mad Trapper Pub, all of which have a dance floor, pool tables and pub-type food.
One of the best beginner friendly ski resorts in Canada is Big White. Almost all of the resort has wide easy slopes ideal for beginners. Big White Ski and Snowboard School has courses for even the very youngest, and you can also get private one-on-one instruction. The practice lift in the village centre is the Plaza Chair quad chairlift and there are plenty of really easy practice slopes here. There are green slopes from all of the mountain stations going back down into the valley.
Sun Peaks is another good resort for beginners. With one exception (the West Bowl t-bar) there are very easy slopes from all the mountain stations back down into the valley. There is also a learning zone with a people mover in Sun Peaks Village. In addition, there is a people mover adjoining the pommel lift at the Village Platter, and all of the easy slopes from the mountain stations are highlighted on the trail maps.
Kicking Horse has the highest elevation restaurant in Canada, the Eagle’s Eye Restaurant at 7,705’. You don’t even have to ski here, because it is just a few paces from the gondola. This is a really popular restaurant so you will need to make a reservation. Try a beef stew en croute, or an elk burger. From this peak you can see the four National Parks. One of the best ideas is to take the gondola up for apres ski at about 4.30, then stay on for dinner. The food and the service are out of this world.
Whitehorn Lodge at Lake Louise has floor to ceiling windows and offers a spectacular view of Lake Louise and the surrounding Banff National Park. Have a bison burger or the cheese fondue which are both excellent. There is also a special apres ski and dinner package available.
Elkhorn Lodge on Panorama Mountain Resort is also a place for foodies. It is run by Heather and Don Bilodeau. Alberta beef burgers and salmon burgers are cooked on a grill outside. Their Tourtiere (Quebec meat pie) and Chicken Pot Pie are a delight. Finish your meal with a vanilla gelato covered in Canadian maple syrup. Delicious!
The Chitosekan situated in the heart of Nozawa Onsen Village, is a cosy, traditional wooden Ryokan. Tatami style (woven-straw) flooring and Japanese futon beds, sliding paper screens, wall hangings and old-style woodwork, guests really get to embrace customary Japan. Chitosekan has natural indoor hot spring baths and is also located in Nozawa’s Hot-Spring area, where you will find a number of public hot-spring baths.
The Hikage ski trail is only a 5-minute walk away and ski equipment can be hired on site.
See more Nozawa Onsen Accommodation Deals and Packages.
The Nozawa Grand Hotel with its European chalet style building has been has been recently refurbished and provides guests with an elegance and charm of modern Japanese design and hints of the past. Situated on the edge of a mountain village, with indoor natural (onsen) and rotenburo (out-door hot spring). This really is the perfect place to relax and unwind in the famous natural hot springs and absorb the views to Nozawa’s beautiful scenery. Only a 15 minute walk to Nozawa Onsen Snow Resort and 5 km from Kamisakai Station.
The Nozawa Grand Hotel has 3 room types:-
Twin Room – this room has 2 single western style beds, balcony plus a bathroom featuring a private bath tub (max 2 guests)
Twin Room Japanese Style – tatami style (woven-straw) flooring and Japanese futon beds with private bathroom and bath tub.(max 2 guests)
Superior Twin Rooms – have 2 single western-style beds plus an extra tatami sitting area as well as private bathroom and a private open-air bath (max 2 guests + 2 extra beds possible)
All rooms have LCD TV, telephone, a small fridge, electric kettle, safe, robes, hair dryer and private bathrooms.
See more Nozawa Onsen Accommodation Deals and Packages.
The Sakaya Ryokan is a 5 star modern traditional Japanese hotel (ryokan) and is perfect for experiencing Japanese culture at is finest. Located in the heart of Nozawa Onsen Village only 5 minutes walk from the travelator that takes you to the heart of the ski area. This stunning hotel has both in-door hot spring baths (0nsen) and outdoor hot spring bath (rottenburo). They are some of the most luxurious you will find anywhere in Japan and the indoor baths can be reserved for private use. The Sakaya has an exceptional restaurant and a must to treat yourself to a memorable eating experience here. The delights of this hotel and Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort provides a perfect location for an amazing ski holiday.
Japanese Rooms (Max 4 guests) – rooms are set up for 2 futon beds on tatami and most rooms all have private ensuite. Western Rooms (Max 2 guests) – two single beds in one room, with ensuite and a separate sitting area with table & chairs.
See more Nozawa Onsen Accommodation Deals and Packages.
Tokiwaya Ryokan is a luxurious property ideally located in the heart of Nozawa Onsen. Tokiwaya has become one of the top places to stay in Nozawa Onsen boasting outstanding service and a superb ambiance. Tokiwaya also has two traditional hot springs which are among the best in Japan – a perfect therapeutic way to relax after a day on the slopes.
All rooms are beautifully appointed in traditional Japanese style and exceptionally spacious. Tokiwaya Ryokan is the perfect accommodation for those looking to experience historical Japanese design. Deluxe Room: Japanese-style rooms with en suite. (50sq.m2),
Superior Room: Japanese-style rooms with en suite. (45sq.m2), Standard Room: Japanese Tatami Room with en suite. (32-36sq.m2)
See more Nozawa Onsen Accommodation Deals and Packages.
There are an awful lot of destinations in the world where you can go skiing, but if you have never been to Canada you haven’t lived. A considerable amount of the country is covered by snow and you have an extremely wide choice of resorts of different types depending on your ability as a skier and your personal preferences. With the snow season starting from the end of November and going all the way through until the end of march, there is plenty on offer!
Canada is a long way to go if you are a beginner, but the place to be is Sun Peaks in British Columbia. It has a pretty little village with the nursery slopes right at hand together with the lifts. There are three peaks. The main one is Mount Tod, and the other two are Sundance and Mount Morrissey. Between them, the three mountains cover 4,200 acres and have 135 runs: the only resort in Canada with more is Whistler.
The ski school offers half or full day lessons at very reasonable prices which includes equipment hire and a lift pass. There is also a newly created learning area close to the Village Day Lodge.
There are some easy green runs to get you started including one on Mount Tod which is 5 miles long and has a vertical of over 800m. However, Sun Peaks is not just for beginners. While 10% of the slopes are green, there are 58% blue and the remaining 32% black.
The Sun Peaks Lodge is right in the village centre with a restaurant and bar and it is ski in/ski out. There is also a gym, a steam room, sauna, and hot tub. Free Wi-Fi is included and there is a shop where you can rent equipment.
In general, Canadian ski resorts are not noted for being ski in/ski out, but there is one which has been built for the purpose. It is also in British Columbia and is called Big White. Almost all of the hotels and apartments here are ski in/ski out and the main lifts are down below the village itself. You can even ski in the main street as it is a designated run!
Big White is best suited to intermediate skiers, but there is plenty of snow – 2,750 acres – 18% of which is green, 54% blue, and 28% black. There are 15 lifts. At the bottom of the village, there is an area called Happy Valley where you can go ice climbing, snowmobiling, ice skating, and tubing.
Stonebridge Lodge is right in the village centre and is ski in/ski out. It has very smart apartments, many with a hot tub outside. The village itself is somewhat limited as to apres bars and shopping, but there is a selection of good restaurants.
Well, of course, Whistler is probably the resort of choice for many skiers with the total acreage on the two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, adding up to the largest in Canada – over 8,000 acres. It is beginner friendly with 18% green slopes, many of which are top to bottom. In addition, Whistler Mountain is adding some new learning areas for the 2016/2017 season.
Whistler has some great terrain parks, and you can also enjoy snowboarding, snowmobiling, tubing, and zip lining, and – wait for it – eagle watching!
The village is all purpose-built and has a LOT of apres bars, restaurants, and shopping. There is plenty of accommodation ranging from hotels to apartments. However, be warned: Whistler is not the place to go if you are looking for a cheap powder trip – it is expensive.
Yes, there is Banff in Alberta. It is at the end of an incredible range of mountain national parks and it gets very busy in the summer. As a result there are a lot of lodgings and apartments to cater for the summer demand, but with less demand in the winter they are fairly cheap.
There are three ski areas, all a free bus ride away. Lake Louise is about 45 minutes away and has 4,200 acres suitable for intermediates and experts. Closer at hand is Sunshine Village with 3,350 acres which is noted for plenty of snow and a steep terrain. Norquay is only a few minutes from the village but is really tiny: just 190 acres, but with a good nursery area.
The town itself is full of souvenir shops and has more than 100 apres bars and good restaurants. Banff Caribou Lodge is on the main street and has a steak restaurant and a spa. Despite being a four star hotel it is very reasonably priced.
Whistler has plenty for the kids to do while mum and dad are on the slopes, but there is also Panorama in British Columbia again. The village sits on two levels linked together by a gondola. The Upper Village has six residences known as the Upper Village Condos and if you are staying at one of these you get free access to a skating rink, outdoor hot pools, hot tubs, sauna, water slides, and swimming pools.
Childcare is abundant with a childcare centre that caters for 18 months to five year olds, and there is a childcare/ski school for those aged three years and up. There are also plenty of babysitters for the evenings.
There are 2,850 acres of pistes, of which 20% are green, 55% blue, and 25% black. There are ten lifts. There is a 1,220m vertical – one of the biggest in the country – and there is also heli-skiing available based in the village.
The resort of Revelstoke has been very recently developed. Until 2008 it was just a small hill with a lift, mainly used by the locals. However, it has had a gondola and two fast chairlifts added, has 3,000 acres accessible, gets a lot of powder (around 12m a year), and has the highest vertical in the country at 1,713m. The pistes are 7% green, 45% blue, and 48% black. The terrain is steep and mostly ungroomed. The ski school provides half or full day sessions where you are shown around the terrain, which is something well worth doing.
There is an 11 acre terrain park which is being expanded for the new season, a snowcat-skiing area, and heli-skiing can be booked in the village. There is a new fun trail for the kids, and further attractions are being created for 2016/2017.
The resort village has the modern Sutton Place Hotel which has a restaurant, an outdoor pool, gym, and hot tubs. Revelstoke Town is only five minutes away by bus and has a reasonable selection of bars and restaurants.
Hakuba’s newest Luxury Apartments with ski-in ski-out address – The Mountain Side is perfectly located slope side offering spectacular views with The Happo One Snow Resort Kokusai Course right outside. Each beautifully appointed apartment offers 3 luxury bedrooms, all with en-suite and guests can enjoy the spacious Living areas with stylish furnishings and fitted kitchen with modern amenities, washing machines and dryers. The Mountain Side also offers an on-site restaurant, but is closely located to a number of local restaurants making it the ideal place to be.
See more Hakuba Accommodation Deals and Packages.
One obvious answer to the question “What makes a really good ski holiday?” is the presence of plenty of the white powder in quantity and in quality. It also needs to be there for the whole of the ski season, enabling skiing at all times.
However, sheer snow on its’ own is by no means enough. The resort of choice has to have a wide variety of different terrain enabling skiers of all abilities, from beginner to expert, to enjoy themselves. One needs wide open runs and also twisty runs through the trees, and scary stuff for the brave.
A good acreage of skiable terrain is also a requirement for most skiers, together with a good vertical. An interesting point here is that many resorts seem to play with the figures when it comes to verticals. A website called Mountain Vertical (www.mountainvertical.com) calculates the verticals for many resorts in the US and finds this to be the case. For instance, it describes a mountain where there are three points – A, B, and C – and the vertical is described as from the highest point – A – to the lowest – C – yet it is impossible to ski from B to C. The website is worth checking out if you are planning a trip to the US.
A good lift system is critical. It needs to be efficient and fast in order to get to the top of the slopes across the whole ski area quickly without any bottlenecks, and without having to use tedious drag lifts. A good staff is also very important – groomers, patrollers, instructors, and lift operators, together with ground, bar, and restaurant staff.
Another major consideration is the competence of the resort management. If there is a metre fall of snow overnight, is the management capable of having all the lifts running and the car parks cleared ready for the morning? Can the management make the best of poor snow? Are there sufficient snow cannon?
The main lifts should also be close to the accommodation, bars, and restaurants. There should also be a good supply of reasonably-priced mountain restaurants that can serve food quickly, and preferably do not become overcrowded.
Some people also consider that ski in, ski out is important, but others do not consider it so, pointing out that they don’t need to go home at mid-day: once you are on the slopes, that’s it.
We thought you’d never ask!
For the majority of skiers apres ski is a vital part of the jigsaw – indeed for some skiers it is the whole point of the holiday. A good selection of apres ski entertainment makes every day so much more fun. Come off piste at around 3.00 or 3.30 and drink shots until 6.00 while listening to the entertainment and dancing on the tables. Many resorts don’t offer a lot in the way of nightlife because skiers want to be on the slopes early in the morning, so they do what the chalet girls do which is apres ski, go and have some dinner, then it’s off to bed early for an early start the next day.
Certainly.
St Anton in Austria is extremely popular and attracts some of the best skiers in the world to try their hands at the off-piste routes such as the Valluga. The apres ski bars here tend to get very crowded, but you can have some great moments at the Krazy Kangaruh where they serve shots on a shotski, or the Mooserwirt which has loud pop music getting the crowd into table dancing mood.
Verbier in Switzerland is expensive but the bars around the village have happy hours. The Pub Mont Fort is worth a visit, and so too is the Farinet Bar which has a sliding roof that they open when the going gets too hot.
In recent years Val Thorens in France has become a little more upmarket, now boasting a 5-star hotel and some top of the range chalets. Because of its height it’s a great place for early or late skiing. The Folie Douce is above the town and below is a selection of bars including the Saloon Bar which is loud and crowded. The Frog And Roast Beef is the highest pub in Europe, while Malaysia is the largest nightclub in the area and rocks on late.
Livigno in Italy is another great resort and also has quality shopping. There are about 150 bars here, so you won’t get into them all in a fortnight. There is a bar here where you can get free drinks. The Baita Del Ghet is right in the town centre and offers every customer their first drink on the house. That’s every time you visit! It has great food, and as you might guess is very popular. It’s also dog friendly.
Yes, of course there are. Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia has plenty for young kids to do while the parents are on the slopes. There are teen camps, snowmobiling, Magic Carpet’ snow rides, snowboarding, and lots more. There is also first class shopping and the widest variety of restaurants and bars that you could imagine.
Bankso in Bulgaria is ideal for beginners. It has a well-known ski school and a wide choice of beginners slopes. The town centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Over in Vermont is Smuggler’s Notch which offers day care centres for toddlers, ski schools for every age, ski programmes for kids, ski programmes for teens, and even a ski programme for children who are mentally handicapped. There are also swimming pools, ice skating rinks, a wide choice of entertainment in the evening, and first class shopping.
That’s a really difficult question because most resorts have a variety of hotels and restaurants offering an almost endless choice of different foods.
There are five Michelin-starred restaurants in and around St. Moritz. Bumanns Chesa Pirani has two stars and is known for its’ saffron menu with dishes such as lobster saffron pasta.
Aspen Mountain in the US has Cloud Nine which has a daily changing two course menu. Chef Andreas Fischbacher prepares dishes such as elk stroganoff.
San Cassiano is in Italy and has several restaurants with Michelin stars including the Rosa Alpina Hotel which has two, and offers a six course tasting menu. A mile or so away in Armentarola is the one star La Siriola which serves suckling pig in three different styles. It also has a chocolate room where you can taste some 40 different chocolates, and a tasting lounge next door for tasting wines and spirits.
One could go on at length about resorts for foodies. The best bet is to pick your resort for its’ skiing facilities and then check out the restaurants on Google before making a final decision.
The town of Whistler is located in British Columbia in Canada, approximately 80 miles north of Vancouver. It nestles in a valley between two mountain ranges, the Garibaldi Ranges being the side that contains the ski slopes.
The area was first surveyed by the British navy in the 1860’s and became informally called Whistler after the warning call given by the hoary marmot, a native ground squirrel. However, there were few inhabitants until the 1960’s when four Vancouver businessmen decided to develop the area as a ski resort. Whistler Mountain was opened to the public in 1966.
Whistler Village is entirely pedestrian, and has a residential population of about 10,000. However, it also has a larger transient population of younger people who come to work, largely from Europe and Australia.
If you didn’t already know, in 2010 Whistler hosted most of the events of the Vancouver Winter Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games, so you can imagine that the skiing is top notch. Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains are described as a skiers dream destination, with good reason.
There are around 8,100 acres of snow-covered slopes, more than 200 marked trails, three glaciers, 16 alpine bowls, and world beating terrain parks. The ski and snowboard season is from November to May.
There are several gondolas, and lift tickets permit skiing and riding on both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains via the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. Prices for winter tickets for adults for 6 of 7 days are $451 and for children 7 – 12 years $226. Tickets can be delivered to your accommodation at no additional charge, meaning that you can go straight to the lifts in the morning.
Ski gear can be rented from any of several rental shops near the hotels and the lifts. There is also a ski and snowboard school, so you can get the kids off to an early start if they have never skied before. Teens and adults of all levels of ability are catered for by instructors in addition.
There is also heli-skiing available with tours including lunch, avalanche safety equipment, and experienced guides. From the powder point of view, Whistler is a skier’s paradise.
For the third year running Whistler Blackcomb was named the number one ski resort in North America by Ski Magazine.
There are some 130 hotels in Whistler, 55 B&B’s, and over 500 holiday rentals including secluded alpine homes and condominiums, so there is a wide choice and a price to suit every pocket. For instance, the Sundial Boutique Hotel is only two minutes’ walk from Blackcomb Excalibur Gondola, and the suites on offer have free wi-fi, a 36” wide screen TV, heated slate flooring in the bathroom, and a 20” flat screen TV in the bedroom.
There are two on-site restaurants – Black’s Restaurant serving West coast dishes, and Sushi Village offering Japanese food – and Black’s Pub which is an apres ski bar.
Whistler Village Inn is also only a couple of minutes from Blackcomb Excalibur Gondola and has a heated year-round outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a fitness centre. The Keg Steakhouse and Bar serves seafood, chicken, and grilled steak. All guest rooms have free wi-fi and a flat-screen TV. Some rooms have a refrigerator and a microwave. A hot tub and a dry sauna are also on site.
Nita Lake Lodge is a quarter mile from Whistler Mountain and Creekside Gondola. Each unit has a 2 person soaking bathtub and a rain shower, wi-fi, a flat-screen satellite TV, and a gas fireplace. There is an on-site spa, an outdoor heated pool, a hot tub, and a rooftop garden. Yoga classes and personal training are also available. The Aura Restaurant and Cure Lounge offers a variety of foods sourced from local farmers and fisheries, and free bike, canoe, paddleboard, fishing rod, and kayak rental are also on offer.
Four Seasons Resort is located in Whistler’s Upper Village and has a fitness centre and a spa, together with a heated outdoor pool and three hot tubs. Guest rooms feature free wi-fi, flat-screen TV, and a gas fire. Seafood and steak dinners are served at Sidecut Modern Steak & Bar, and guests are offered a daily complimentary wine reception. The chairlift to Blackcomb Mountain is only 400 yards away, and within a 7 minute drive is Nicklaus North Golf Course. During the ski season there is a free shuttle to Whistler Mountain and Whistler Village.
Those are only four of the 130 or so hotels in and around Whistler, but all seem to have very good reviews and offer a full range of facilities. Click here to find more information on Whistler ski packages.
Whistler offers a wide choice of restaurants providing varied menus. One of the oldest and most talked-about restaurants is Araxi which has an excellent apres oyster bar. Samantha Rahn is a former Sommelier of the Year and is the wine director here. She’s currently creating her own wine.
There is a choice of sushi restaurants in Whistler, one being Sushi Village which imports fish from around the world.
Trattoria di Umberto offers mushroom stuffed pheasant, crab risotto, and tuna which is cooked in a soya sesame vinaigrette as part of its Tuscan menu.
Vegetarians will welcome Raven’s Nest at Whistler Blackcomb, the first vegetarian restaurant here, which also offers some vegan dishes.
Steep’s Grill is on Whistler Mountain and has some amazing views. Fish comes from the West Coast and includes tuna, mussels, and salmon. There is a large wine list, and apres snacks are served in mid-afternoon.
In winter there is ice fishing, bungee jumping (160’ drop for the brave), ziplining, dog sledding, ice skating, bobsleigh tours, and a whole lot more outside activities.
Readers of SKI Magazine voted Whistler in the top ten kid-friendly ski resorts in North America in 2015. There is an indoor gym, a gymnastics centre, indoor skating and tennis, indoor rock climbing, and yoga studios. There is also a place called “Escape!” where groups choose one of four themes and then get “locked” inside and have 45 minutes to solve clues and achieve targets in order to escape. Fun for all the family.
Starting from virtually nothing just 50 years ago, Whistler has now become one of the top family-friendly ski destinations in the world. It is no surprise, then, that Whistler now boasts of having some two million visitors every year.
The city of Aspen, Colorado, was originally a mining camp during the Colorado silver boom of the 1880’s, and was named after the abundance of aspen trees in the area. At 8,000 feet it gets its’ fair share of snow in the winter. Unfortunately, the silver market collapsed in 1893 and the city gradually lost its population over the next 50 years. However, in the 1950’s a ski resort was developed at Aspen Mountain while a local businessman, Walter Paepcke bought properties in the city and redeveloped them.
Today, Aspen has a population of around 7,000 and is flourishing. Singer John Denver lived there and wrote two songs about the city – Starwood in Aspen and Aspenglow – and towards the end of the 20th century other musicians and movie stars moved in along with millionaire businessmen. Jack Nicholson lives in Aspen. Indeed, Aspen now has the most expensive real estate in the country, to the extent that many ordinary middleclass people cannot afford it.
In a word, it’s fantastic. There are four ski resorts all within about 20 minutes’ drive of each other. The area is known as Aspen Snowmass and contains Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass, and Buttermilk Mountain. Although all four resorts are included on the same lift ticket, they are only otherwise connected by a free shuttle service from the city centre.
In total, the ski area covers over 5,300 acres, has 329 marked trails, and 43 lifts. There are also 5 terrain parks and plenty of halfpipes where you can canvass. With that number of trails there is something for every ski enthusiast, from beginner to expert, and there are plenty of white knuckle runs that will test the most advanced and expert skiers.
As is the case with other ski resorts in Colorado, the quality of the powder is excellent. There is an average of 300 inches of snowfall each season, so skiing is available on most days. Although Aspen is a popular resort there are still plenty of hidden powder trails to be found: best to hire a local guide. You can also go snow shoeing and cross country skiing.
Aspen has a lot on offer, even to strange folk who don’t like skiing!
With all those aspen trees around you can go hiking through the forests.
There are bike trails aplenty, or you could explore the local landscape on horseback. If you don’t feel like getting too much exercise you can go on a Jeep tour. There is also hunting and shooting available, if you like hunting or shooting check out Goog gun best airsoft. You would want to also buy the best reloading press for enahanced reloading speed.
For the golfer, there are several courses including the Aspen Golf Club which was ranked as Best Municipal Golf Course in Colorado by Golfweek Magazine for three years running. There is the Snowmass Club and the Roaring Fork Club which is a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Oh, and there’s another bonus: your golf ball will travel further when you are playing at this height.
Certainly! There is some great fly-fishing for trout on the Roaring Fork River and Frying Pan River at just about any time of year. You can actually fish for trout on Mill Street in Aspen, but the majority of people go ten minutes from downtown to the Roaring Fork River. Both rivers have been designated Gold Medal waters by the Colorado Wildlife Commission as great places to catch trout. There are about 9,000 miles of trout streams in the state, but only 168 miles are designated Gold Medal. They are mostly Rainbow, Speckled, Brown, and Cutthroat trout and they WILL be biting when you hit the water!
If you fancy rock climbing, take a trip up Independence Pass just 15 minutes from the town centre. There is every type of rock climbing here from bouldering for the beginner to rocks for the experts. During the winter you can try ice climbing, and there is also an indoor climbing tower at the Aspen Recreation Centre.
What about canoeing and whitewater rafting? Aspen offers both. You can canoe or stand-up paddle board at the North Star Nature Reserve. If you want some really fast action then try whitewater rafting on the Colorado River or Roaring Fork River, or you can take a day trip to the Arkansas River.
Then there’s tennis at the Aspen Golf and Tennis Club and the Aspen Recreation Centre. The Gant Hotel also has five tennis courts. If you prefer ice skating there is the Aspen Ice Garden, the Lewis Ice Arena, and the Silver Circle rink which is only open in the winter.
We thought you’d never ask! There are over 100 restaurants in the city and plenty of bars and clubs. You can enjoy French, Italian, Japanese, Mexican, and New World cuisine. The Ajax Tavern provides crab, shrimp, and fresh oysters.
Aspen has its own brewery, and Eric’s Bar in East Hyman Street offers 14 different beers and more than 50 single malt whiskies. On South Mill Street, Jimmy’s has live blues and swing every Friday night and serves over 80 different tequilas. There is also the Caribou Club which is a private members exclusive club but which will let you sign up for membership for a week.
There is pretty much everything you could wish for in Aspen, from hotels, motels, lodges, bed and breakfasts, condominiums, to plenty of private rentals. Many of the hotels are three star, but the Sky Hotel and the Gant Hotel are four star, while the St. Regis Aspen Resort is a top end hotel and has five stars.
There is a village at the base of Snowmass Mountain which is mostly hotels and condominiums. You can also stay in the village at the base of Aspen Mountain, but not much goes on there other than skiing and snowboarding.
Although many people go to Aspen solely for the skiing, there is a surprisingly large number of other things to do and see in a city of only 7,000 people. It seems to have a little of just about everything. It is not the cheapest place in the world, so perhaps not the best choice if you are on a tight budget, but you will most certainly have a holiday to remember.
Travel between 16 January 2017 and 12 February 2017 or from 27 February 2017 until end of season.
Package from $3,597pp
Book by 15 November 2016
Package for 2 adults includes:
Lizard Creek Lodge and Condominiums are in the perfect ski-in/ski-out position at Fernie Alpine Resort. The outdoor pool and hot tubs overlook the mountains and there is even a gentle run that cruises past the hotel.
The Studio has one Queen Bed, pullout sofa and fully equipped gourmet kitchen with five appliances including a dishwasher. The living area has a cozy fireplace and there is a private balcony to enjoy the views of the mountain.
Package Includes:
The Crestwood is a renowned condominium lodging establishment located on the slopes in Snowmass Village, CO, providing guests with preeminent access to the world class offerings of Aspen/Snowmass. Our slope side location, fully furnished condominium accommodations and endless list of services and amenities, will give you every reason to feel like you found exactly what you were looking for… a home away from home in the Colorado Rocky Mountains.
The Mountain Haus is one for the most popular properties in Vail, perfectly located right in the heart of Vail Village only 100 metres from the lifts. The Mountain Haus is sure to keep everyone happy from families to groups. The complex has all ranges of rooms from standard hotel rooms to 3 bedroom fully equipped apartments.
Vail’s Mountain Haus offers free continental breakfast, and the site has an indoor and outdoor hot tubs plus a heated pool, steam showers, saunas and a newly renovated fitness centre.
ROOM TYPES :
HOTEL AMENITIES
SNOW TOUR DE NORTH AMERICA – by Melissa Clissold, Blue Powder Travel Consultant.
Each Northern Winter a few lucky travel agents are chosen to fly to our client’s fav destinations to experience the best of what the Northern Hemisphere Ski Resorts have to offer, starting with the airlines that fly us there to the transfers, car hire, hotels, restaurants, ski/snowboard instructors and guides who show us the best runs the mountains have to offer. We basically go on holidays for the benefit of our clients…tough gig I know!
I am currently on one of these wicked snow tours and the experience has rolled out like this..
First stop Steamboat!!
We flew from our home destinations of Sydney and Melbourne with United Airlines into LAX. Let me give you the tip – pay the extra to upgrade to Economy Plus…it gives you extra leg room and allows for a better sleep. This flight lands around 6am, so it’s worth having had a good sleep to keep your momentum going upon arrival.
We then took a flight from LAX with United Express that flew us into Hayden (approx 2 hrs) where we rented a car and drove ourselves into Steamboat (approx 30 mins & a really easy drive). Airport transfers are available if hiring a car isn’t your thing. The view flying in was spectacular.
We got lucky – it started to snow upon our arrival so Steamboat was a white Winter Wonderland. Yes it still snows in March! We got about a foot overnight so the next day was the most incredible day of riding trees, groomed and blue and black runs. This mountain has something for everyone though so beginners are well catered for also. I didn’t encounter any lift lines and would highly recommend paying for a guide/instructor to take you around the mountain. It makes your day so much more worthwhile. There are a few restaurants on mountain where you can stop in to refuel and who doesn’t like to stop for a hot chocky (especially with a dash of something special) 😉
We were fortunate enough to be accommodated at One Steamboat Place – right in the heart of Steamboat Village in one of the luxurious 4 bedroom residences. One Steamboat Place is comprised of 2, 3, 4 & 5 bedroom apartments that are richly decorated with every creature comfort including fireplaces and deep bathtubs to relax in after a day on the slopes. I was blown away by the amaze factor of this property. Incredible mountain views, luxurious, spacious & perfectly located – One Steamboat Place is perfect for families and groups of friends or families. My fav spot at the end of day (outside of Apres ski), is the hot tub and One Steamboat Place didn’t disappoint.
Steamboat is a very cool town filled with loads of restaurants and bars, catering to all different tastes. If your looking for something extra special – Cafe Diva is one restaurant not to miss and bookings must be made in advance. We can organise these kinds of reservations for you. The Shopping isn’t bad either and we found the most fabulous store called FM Light and Sons that had cowboy hats and boots in every shade and colour. Everyone needs a good pair of cowboy boots in their life!
If you don’t want to hire a car, transfers can be provided and most of the hotels in Steamboat have their own shuttles that can transport you to dinner and back, or anywhere else (if it’s not after 11 pm – otherwise there is a free town bus running till 2pm for the party animals). Other hotels/residences that we checked out that are also perfectly located include, Steamboat Grand, Sheraton, Edgemont Residences to name a few.
NEXT STOP BRECKENRIDGE
…or sometimes called Breckenfridge because it gets so cold – even in March. We drove from Steamboat to Breckenridge which normally takes about 2 hrs, however as we drove in a snow storm it took us about 3.5 hrs. In normal conditions this would be an easy and very beautiful drive, so it’s a great idea to consider 2 destinations or even 3 in your trip.
We arrived into another Winter Wonderland when we reached Breck and what a gorgeous sight. The town was lit up with fairy lights and the trees were laden with snow…we couldn’t wait to hit the mountain the next morning.
We woke up to another foot on the ground and it kept snowing all day (did I mention it’s March!!!) Again we had a guide to take us around the mountain and what a difference this made to our day as through all the snow and without knowing the mountain – we had someone to guide us around and take us to all the best spots – in my case – tree runs, blue & black runs. Guides will take you wherever you want to go – it seriously enhances your ski/board day experience.
I stayed at Beaver Run which was a huge resort hotel/apartment complex with ski in ski out access. Ski & Snowboard Rentals at your doorstep, restaurants, kids ski school – something for everyone. Did I mention that I love hot tubs – Beaver Run has 6 plus hot tubs and an indoor pool which is popular for the kids – you always meet someone interesting in the hot tub!
NEXT STOP VAIL
We road tripped from Breckenridge to Vail – a gorgeous drive (approx 1 hr). Very European inspired, Vail is a gorgeous village made up of winding streets (the footpaths are heated so it’s very easy to walk around without slippage) filled with top shelf shops, restaurants, service and bars and lots of Argentinian & Mexican people adding to the exotic vibe. I would classify this resort as exclusive with guests flying in from all over the world wanting to experience world class skiing, including wide open bowls, groomed terrain, tree runs. Again our guide enhanced our day on the mountain, taking us to explore whatever terrain we desired. The snow was amazing after having had numerous dumps, but we caught the most gorgeous bluebird days!!!
Vail has an abundance of spectacular hotels including the Ritz Carlton Residences, the Arrabelle, Sebastian, Solaris Residences, the Marriot, however, it is possible, to visit Vail without breaking the budget by staying at The Lodge in Vail.
We arrived for Burton US Open, so got to witness some of the snowboarders in action getting some crazy acrobatic air and we were lucky enough to stay in the multi million dollar residences of the Solaris which was right in the heart of the main village overlooking all the action.
We had a great casual meal at the Marriott with live music playing in the background to maintain a great vibe. We also drove ourselves to the Westin at Beaver Creek to experience the Mexican Restaurant there called Maya. An amazing restaurant who like to show you a good time – hello tequila tastings!!! That’s right – they have a wall locker of tequila where you choose the bottle you want and it’s kept under lock and key for the duration of your stay. Fun night to say the least!!
We were also lucky enough to catch an exclusive party, with International DJs that happens once a month, on top of the mountain at night time accessed by the Gondola.
F.U.N!!
ASPEN/SNOWMASS
We drove, in our rental car, from Vail to Aspen on a bluebird sweet, sunny day, last week. We did it in under 2 hours. It was a very pretty, easy drive and highlights how easy it is to plan two destinations into the one trip.
I stayed at the Westin Snowmass which is perched right on the run at Snowmass so I had skiers and snowboarders whipping past my bedroom window. Snowmass is perfect for everyone but families in particular as ski school is held in Snowmass. Great hotel with valet ski service so you can drop your skis/board off as you hop off the slopes and they are ready for you the next morning in the same place…magic! (Ski Valet Service is available in most top hotels in Colorado). Soaking in the Westin hot tub at the end of the day – looking out over the slopes with drink in hand – makes for a very relaxed evening!!
There are four mountains you can choose to ride on and my choice for the day was Aspen Mountain, known for it’s black diamond terrain. Bluebird day, packed powder, gorgeous long, soft runs and talk about the views from the chairlifts – magnificent. We ended the day with a late lunch of oysters, truffle fries and Veuve Cliquot at the Veuve Cliquot pop up bar at The Little Nell – quite the scene! Don’t worry if you forget your sunnies – buy a bottle of Veuve and they give you a pair.
Next thing you know it’s time to head off the mountain and into Apres Ski. One of the most happening places is at the Sky Hotel, just opposite Aspen Mountain. Completely rocking with tunes, hot tub and drinks, this place is one spot not to be missed for Apres. All ages welcome. For something a little more demure the Limelight Hotel offers Apres Ski with a little less party involved – perfect for families as they offer great food deals for the kids.
Before you know it, it’s dinner time and there are hundreds of places to choose to dine at. We were fortunate enough to experience the delectable delights of Kenichi – a small Japanese Sushi restaurant in Aspen town. This was a culinary experience with some of the finest Sushi I have ever eaten and the service was second to none. World Class! Reservations are required in advance.
Aspen has something for everyone – it’s ritzy yes, but it does have a very laid back vibe to it as well so everyone can fit in here. The terrain is varied so skiers/boarders of all levels will enjoy themselves. There is so much to do and see – Aspen is one of my favs! I’ll be back!
Next stop JACKSON HOLE
We flew out of Aspen’s small airport (which is lined with private jets of course) to Jackson Hole via Denver with United Express. Jackson Hole has to be one of the prettiest airports to fly into with it’s monumentous Teton Mountains surrounding the airport. I’ve never seen anything like it – just breathtaking. A shuttle collected us from the airport for the 30 minute or so commute to the Teton Village. There are two areas to stay in Jackson Hole – The Town of Jackson and the Teton Village. The town is a lovely old historic cowboy town that dates back to the early 1800’s (about 10 mins from the ski resort) and Teton Village is at the base of the Jackson Hole Ski Resort. I personally would prefer to stay at the base of the mountain (as we did) as all hotels ranging from 3-5 star, are just a minute’s walk to the lift and it makes for a hassle free stay. We arrived around sunset and the snowy Teton mountains were awash with a pink glow from the setting sun.
We stayed at the Hotel Terra and the Teton Mountain Lodge. Both at the base of the mountain, with incredible views, lush decor, outdoor hot tubs, tasty restaurants and great service, both just minutes to the lifts. We dined at Il Villagio Osteria Italian restaurant at the Hotel Terra and what a mouth watering experience it was and, of course, the extensive wine list enhanced the experience. You must try this restaurant when in Jackson Hole. All surrounding hotels are within minutes walk, so multiple dining and Apres Ski options are just a hop, skip and a jump away. The infinity hot pool at the Terra Hotel, with it’s incredible view over the town and mountains is one not to be missed (did I mention I love a good hot tub). Speaking of which – a special mention needs to go to the Snake River Lodge & Spa for their incredible indoor/outdoor hot tubs, stone sauna and outdoor grotto waterfalls. Pretty amazing.
Jackson Hole hadn’t had any new snow waiting for us upon our arrival, but the spring skiing/boarding was just wonderful. We caught bluebird days and by about 11 am, the snow was lovely and soft (not slushy) so riding all day is not difficult – particularly when you know that Apres Ski afternoons are waiting for you at the end of the day. Mangy Moose, at the base of the mountain, is a fun place that comes to mind with more moose memorabilia that you can poke a ski pole at. To refuel throughout the day – The Four Seasons, at the base of the hill, do a darn good hot chocolate, among other delectable delights. As with all resorts, Jackson Hole provide excellent ski/snowboard hire, so no need to lug all your equipment with you. It’s right at the base of the mountain, so you’re fitted out and boom you’re on the lifts. Jackson Hole Resort caters to all levels of skiers and boarders. You are really going to love the historic, cowboy infused town of Jackson Hole and it’s incredible mountains and like most people, once you’ve been, you’ll want to keep coming back!
Dreaming of your next great US ski adventure? Then Contact Blue Powder for more information.
Tamarack Lodge is located in the Upper Village across from Panorama Springs Lodge for easy & quick access to the Hot Spring Pools, close to lifts, restaurants and all amenities. Tamarack Lodge has a rental shop and a coffee shop on site for your convenience. The Lodge is rustic in style with large rooms, perfect for families, great price, wonderful value, awesome views and fantastic location. This really is a great mid-tier property with all the trimmings.
Studio: 1 queen bed, 1 queen pull-out couch in the living room, Maximum occupancy of 4 people
1 Bedroom: 1 split king bed, 1 queen pull-out couch in the living room, Maximum occupancy of 4 people
2 Bedroom: 1 split king bed in the 1st bedroom, 1 queen bed or 2 single beds in the 2nd bedroom, 1 queen pull-out couch in the living room, Maximum occupancy of 6 people. Plus 2 full bathrooms
Free Wi-Fi
A family favourite with inside access the renowned Panorama Springs Slopeside Pools, and a direct connection to the Mountain! These apartments offer direct ski-in / ski-out access to the beginner lifts and the Mile 1 Express. Walk down a few steps to Lusti’s for morning coffee and just a bit further to the heart of the village.
Bedding Configurations:
This condo building is at the centre of the Upper Village and only a short stroll away from the Mile 1 Quad and the Panorama Springs Hot Pools. The building houses a number of amenities; including the Great Hall, Toques & Tracks, Guest Services and the Snow School Desk.
Studio: 1 queen bed, 1 queen pull-out couch in the living room, Maximum occupancy of 4 people.
1 Bedroom: 1 split king bed, 1 queen pull-out couch in the living room, Maximum occupancy of 4 people.
2 Bedroom: 1 split king bed in the 1st bedroom, 1 queen bed or 2 single beds in the 2nd bedroom, 1 queen pull-out couch in the living room, Maximum occupancy of 6 people, There are 2 full bathrooms.
Free Wi-Fi
Peaks Lodge features contemporary units in the heart of Panorama Village, just a few steps from the Panorama Springs Pools & Slopes.This tasteful property blends with gorgeous mountain and valley views and boasts a spacious, luxurious, rustic design, inside and out.
High speed wireless internet is complimentary.
Palliser Lodge offers guests deluxe on-mountain accommodation. Offering spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains or ski hill from many suites, the Palliser Lodge is ideally located just a short walk or ski-out to the village base, gondola, restaurants and bars. Choose from comfortable studios, guestrooms, and spacious one, two, and three-bedroom suites, many with private hot tubs. All guests have complimentary access to Internet, an outdoor hot tub, and fitness room.
King Guest Room: • Mini fridge & microwave • Satellite TV • One bathroom • King bed
One Bedroom Suite: • Fully-equipped kitchen • One bathroom • Satellite TV • Washer and dryer • Private deck • Electric fireplace • Queen bed • Queen-size sofa be
Two Bedroom Suite + Hot Tub: • Fully-equipped kitchen • One bathroom • Satellite TV • Washer and dryer • Private deck with Hot tub • Electric fireplace • 1 queen bed, and 1 king OR 2 singles (on request) • Queen-size sofa bed.
Two Bedroom Suite: • Fully-equipped kitchen • Two bathrooms • Satellite TV • Washer and dryer • Private deck • Electric fireplace • 1 queen bed, and 1 king • Queen-size sofa bed
Glacier Mountaineer Lodge has an ideal location in the heart of the resort. Built adjacent to the gondola, the lodge offers true ski-in/ski-out accommodation and is steps from all village shops, restaurants and bars. The condo hotel suites are spacious and feature full kitchens, fireplaces, inviting soaker tubs, and alpine-style furnishings. It is hard to choose between the views of the Columbia Valley and Rocky Mountains or watching your friends and family ski down the village runs from your private balcony. The lodge offers an extensive list of amenities including steam room, sauna, outdoor hot tub, large fitness area, ski lockers with boot dryers, Internet service and warm lobby atmosphere, with friendly front desk service. Select the perfect size unit for your friends and family from our one, two and three-bedroom suites, or a comfortable guestroom for two. Glacier Mountaineer Lodge sits in the heart of the village at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort surrounded by the peaks of the Canadian Rocky Mountains and the Selkirk Mountains.
Guest Room: • Mini fridge, microwave • Satellite TV • One bathroom • King or Queen bed • Unit-controlled heat • Free local phone calls • Mountain views
One Bedroom Suite: • Fully-equipped kitchen • One bathroom • Satellite TV • Washer and dryer • Private deck • Unit-controlled heat • Gas fireplace • Free local phone calls • Mountain views • Queen bed • Queen-size sofa bed.
Two Bedroom Suite: • Fully-equipped kitchen • One bathroom • Satellite TV • Washer and dryer • Private deck • Double-size sofa bed • Unit-controlled heat • Gas fireplace • Free local phone calls • Mountain views • Queen bed • Queen size sofa bed
A Budget Twin/Double room from $600.00 for 2 nights mid-week including 2 breakfast & 2 dinner. Perisher Manor is holds the best position right at the foot of Perisher Front Valley with the V8 chairlift at your front door! It is renowned for its friendly service, great hospitality, fun entertainment & fabulous location. The accommodation ranges from budget to deluxe with a Restaurant & bar that receive wonderful reviews. This accommodation ensures a fantastic holiday at the snow!
See more Perisher Accommodation Deals and Packages.
A Twin/Double room from $644.00 for the weekend including 2 breakfast & 1 dinner. Matterhorn Ski Lodge is centrally located in the heart of Perisher Valley. It is a great lodge for families and snow enthusiasts with a fun social lodge atmosphere, a massive games room, bar & lounge area with log fires. Perched on the snow, nestled in the snowgums opposite the Perisher ski resort only minutes from the Perisher Front Valley & Quad Express lifts. Matterhorn Ski Lodge is a wonderful way to experience staying on the snow in a warm, friendly & social environment. Breakfast & dinner are included so all you have to do is ski/board, unwind & relax.
Rooms can be single, twin/double, triple, quad, 5 & 6 share rooms.
See more Perisher Accommodation Deals and Packages.
A Twin/Double room from $684.00 for the weekend including 2 breakfast & 1 dinner. Corroboree Ski Lodge is a very popular, charming & quality high country lodge in one of the best locations opposite the Quad Express Chairlift in Perisher, Ski straight down from the lodge over to the lifts! Corroboree Ski Lodge has a fun & lively atmosphere with a fabulous restaurant & cocktail bar that can be open quite late on the weekends! The bar area & entire lodge & most rooms offer spectacular views of Perisher Valley. Often the guests that come to Corroboree return year after year for the friendly service, quality rooms & lodge, great food and excellent location.
See more Perisher Accommodation Deals and Packages.
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Standard Room (sleeps 2 ) Hotel room with ensuite, modern furnishings, Tea and Cofee making some with fantastic mountain view
Guest Services
Bookings & Enquiries: Call: (02) 9907 1027 | Email: sales@bluepowder.com.au
The Village Hotel is located absolutely slope side offering ski-in/ski-out access centrally located at the base of Breckenridge Ski Resort just steps from the Main Street of the historic village of Breckenridge with its eclectic abundance of shops, bars & dining options. The Village Hotel offers great amenities including; fitness centre, indoor & outdoor pools, outdoor hot tubs, childcare and restaurant & bar. The Village Hotel at Breckenridge is simply one of the most convenient & best value accommodations for your skiing holiday in Colorado.
All apartments have daily housekeeping, telephones, wireless internet, bath products, hair dryers, humidifiers, iron & ironing board, heating, coffee makers including starbucks coffee, mini refrigerator, flat screen TV’s and concierge services
Yes, free WiFi in all rooms and areas of the hotel. We also have a rehabilitation facility and hospital. Read their blog on behavioral health to learn more about drugs and depression and how to cure them.
Beaver Run Resort is absolutely slope-side with 515 guest rooms including hotel rooms, studios, 1 & 2 bedroom apartments, executive & specialty suites. A totally ski-in, ski-out resort in a fantastic central location with amazing views offering world class amenities, services & hospitality.
All apartments offer telephones, wireless internet, bath products, hair dryers, iron & ironing board, fan & humidifier, heating, free firewood, coffee makers, cribs & high chairs on request, iHome dock radios, Flat screen TV’s, DVD player and concierge services
Yes, free WiFi in all rooms and areas of the hotel
The Village Lodge is in the heart of all the action, in the village centre at Mammoth; walking distance or driving by a car for your convinience to go shopping, dining, bars, clubs & cafes with easy access to the mountain via the Village Gondola or free shuttle only steps away.
Without even leaving the hotel you can enjoy; a heated swimming pool, 5 hot tubs, 3 fitness centers and media & arcade rooms. Relax and enjoy the facilities and services you would expect from a top-teir hotel with modern and quality appointed rooms.
All apartments have full size kitchens with modern appliances and cookware, luxurious linen & down comforters, gas fire places, Flat screen TV’s, DVD player, daily housekeeping and concierge services.
Yes, high speed internet & Wi-Fi for all guests
Juniper Springs is mammoth’s premier ski-in, ski-out condominium hotel. Located in Eagle Lodge, at the base of the Eagle Express chair lift for immediate access to the vast, first-class terrain that mammoth is world famous for.
An impressive mountain lodge, a mountain home that you have always dreamed of, with comprehensive hospitality services focused on your comfort; concierge, 24 hour reception, bell service & personal driver. Being quietly removed from town, but not too far from dining and nightlife, Juniper Lakes is perfect for a romantic getaway, a family escape or a perfect place to holiday with friends. Juniper springs has one goal in mind: to bring comfort and simplicity to your mountain experience.
All apartments have full size kitchen, luxurious linen, gas fire places, Flatscreen TV’s, DVD player, daily housekeeping and concierge services
Yes, high speed internet & Wi-Fi for all guests
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Niseko, on Japan’s North Island of Hokkaido, is known as the “Powder Capital of the World”. Skier and snowboarder excitement is not just about snow quality, but quantity too.
The mountain resort is blanketed in more than twelve metres on average each year of the deepest, driest, lightest powdered white nirvana on the planet. There are five separate resorts offering accommodation, eating, drinking and entertainment options from budget backpacker to the lap of luxury.
Call Blue Powder to get more details, 1300 735 048
Early Booking Offer:
Receive (2) 60 minute spa treatments with each reservation if booked by September 30th,2019
6th Night Free- Get every 6th night FREE, scalable for any length of stay.
Black out dates: 26 December, 19 – 04 January,2020: 14-18 February,2020:8-14 March,2020
The Fairmont Heritage Place, Franz Klammer Lodge, ideally located in Mountain Village offers much more than a Telluride resort experience – it provides luxury living in the heart of one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. Featuring two and three bedroom homes, you can enjoy exceptional comfort and luxury that only a Fairmont can provide just steps from the gondola & ski mountain.
All residences feature:
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5 Day Threbo Lift Pass
Based on Travel in June and September 2014, 5 nights mid-week
$899 pp based on 2 share
$649 pp Based on 4 Share
Bookings & Enquiries: Call: (02) 9907 1027 | Email: sales@bluepowder.com.au
The Village at Squaw Valley Lodging is in the heart of the Lake Tahoe action. Dining, shopping, activities, and the Squaw Valley Aerial Tram are just steps away. When you want to spend more time playing and less time driving this is the place for you.
Slope-side accommodations are elegant and warm, with wood furniture and cozy stone hearths – the perfect place to relax after a big day on the slopes.
The best value option, cozy standard rooms offer warm custom furnishings and comfortably sleep up to 2 guests. These rooms don’t have balconies, fireplaces or refrigerators.
Budget conscious option with 47 sqm of space which comfortably sleep up to 4 guests. Living room includes queen size sofa sleeper, dining table/chairs, TV, DVD player and a warm gas fireplace plus a fully equipped gourmet kitchen.
Perfect for a small family or two couples, one bedroom suites are approx 56 sq.m. and comfortably sleep up to 4 guests. King-size bed with large storage closet with a spacious living room and queen size sofa sleeper, warm gas fireplace plus a fully equipped gourmet kitchen.
This unit covers approximately 65 sq.m of space with den and comfortably sleeps up to 6. Master bedroom features a king-size bed with ample closet. Shared living space includes TWO queen size sleeper sofas. Dining table/chairs, TV, DVD player and a warm gas fireplace plus a fully equipped gourmet kitchen.
Up to 84 sq.m. of space, 2-bedroom suites comfortably sleep up to 6 guests. Master bedroom features a king-size bed and second bedroom with either queen-sized bed or two twin beds, all with ample closet space. Spacious living room includes a queen size sofa sleeper, dining table/chairs, TV, DVD player and a warm gas fireplace plus a fully equipped gourmet kitchen.
A great lodging option for bigger groups, this unit offers 126 sq.m of space and sleeps up to 8. Master bedroom features a king-size bed, second and third bedrooms feature queen size beds, all with ample closet space. Spacious living room includes a queen size sofa sleeper, dining table/chairs, TV, DVD player and a warm gas fireplace plus a fully equipped gourmet kitchen. There is a washer/dryer unit in room and a private balcony outside.
Squaw Valley Lodge offers you the finest ski-in/ski-out condominium-style resort hotel accommodations in North Lake Tahoe, combining all the comforts of home with the finest of hotel service and amenities. From Lake Tahoe weekend getaways to extended family vacations, our sophisticated, spacious and well-appointed condominium suites are ideal for all occasions.
Awarded No.1 Resort Hotel in the U.S. In Travel & leisure Magazine’s 2018 World’s Best Awards!!!
Opened just a year ago on the shores of Lake Tahoe, Edgewood Tahoe is more than an acclaimed golf course, more than a serene spa.
It is a setting for inspiration, a catalyst for adventure, a world-class destination to discover and enjoy.
The LEED-Silver certified Lodge at Edgewood opened in June 2017, with 154 luxury guest rooms and suites, each boasting its own gas fireplace and private deck or terrace. Impeccable attention to detail and a seasoned eye for aesthetics make for spaces you won’t want to leave…until you realise all that surrounds you.
Tahoe Room: 500 Sq. Ft. (46 sq m) – Mountain or Lake View – King or Double Queen – In-Room Gas Fireplace – Terrace / Balcony seating – Separate shower and soaking tub – Keurig Coffee Maker – In-Room Refrigerator – Connecting 1 King > 2 Queens.
Tahoe Premier: 750 Sq. Ft. (70 sq m) – Mountain or Lake View – King or Double Queen – In-Room Gas Fireplace – Terrace / Balcony seating – Separate shower & soaking bath – Dual sided fireplace over bath – Additional Seating area – Keurig Coffee Maker – In-Room Refrigerator – Connects to Tahoe Rooms (1K/2Q).
Edgewood Suite: 1000 Sq. Ft. (93 sq m) – Lake View – One Bedroom Suite – Additional bath – In-Room Gas Fireplace – Terrace / Balcony seating – Additional Seating area – Keurig Coffee Maker – In-Room Refrigerator – Connecting option to Tahoe Rooms.
Presidential Suite: 1,500 Sq. Ft. (139 sq m) – Lake View – One Bedroom Suite – Additional bath – In-Room Gas Fireplace – Terrace / Balcony seating – Additional Seating area – Keurig Coffee Maker – In-Room Refrigerator – Can connect to Tahoe Rooms
Premier lakefront resort nestled on 19 acres. Heavenly is 1.5km away. All accommodation with full kitchens,fireplace and TV/VCR. Amenities include two pools and kids wading pool, sauna and room service. Complimentary shuttles to casinos and ski areas.
The magnificent hotel resort is located on Heavenly Ski Resort’s Nevada slope true ski in / ski out. Resort features Deluxe Hotel Rooms, Junior Suites, One and Two Bedroom Condominium Suites. Resort offers panoramic views and luxurious accommodations. Complimentary Health Club, Indoor Sports Complex, Indoor/Outdoor Swimming Pools and Jacuzzis, Restaurant, Deli, Market, Full Service Spa and more are all on-site. Shuttle service whisks guests 6 miles to Lake Tahoe and casino nightlife.
SPECIALS: Book 5 Nights, Get 7 Nights, Book 7 Nights, get 10 Nights, Book 10 Nights, Get 14 Nights – Blackout dates apply
The Ritz-Carlton is set mid mountain and offers the only 5 star ski-in, ski-out accommodation in Lake Tahoe.
The Ritz-Carlton provides luxury resort guest rooms and executive suites with in-room gas fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies with beautiful views of the region
Conveniently located in the Village at Northstar, guests staying at the Timber Creek Lodge Lofts enjoy exclusive ski-in, ski-out privileges and are just steps away from all the exquisite shops, restaurants and activities the Village has to offer.
Timber Creek Lodge Lofts are hotel-style rooms and all have a private bath, either 1 or 2 queen-sized beds and a deck. Units are serviced by an elevator and have daily maid service.
Situated in the heart of the Beaver Creek Ski Resort, The Charter offers ski access within walking distance of Beaver Creek Village. Recognized by Condé Nast as one of the “Top 50 Ski Hotels in the US and Canada” for 2010, this European-inspired property is considered one of Colorado’s best lodging options.
Wireless high speed internet access
St. James Place, located in the heart of Beaver Creek Village, is just steps from the ski lifts and from the shopping plaza’s world-class boutiques, galleries, restaurants and year-round ice skating rink. Guests will also enjoy European-style, village-to-village skiing between Arrowhead, Bachelor Gulch and Beaver Creek villages.
Wireless high speed internet access
Early Bird Deal: Book by October 15th,2019
November 22nd – December 10th,2019 – Receive 30% OFF
December 11th – 22nd, 2019 – Receive 15% OFF or 20% OFF when staying more than 3 Nights
January 5th – February 13th,2020 – Stay 5 Nights or more and receive 20% OFF
February 14th – March 31st,2020 – Stay 5 Nights or more and receive 25% OFF
April 1st – Closing,2020 – Stay 5 Nights or more and receive 30% OFF
Discounts are subject to change at any time and minimum night requirements may apply
Whats new for Winter 2019/2020 – A 4 Million Dollar plus Lobby remodel and additional elevator project!!!!
The Antlers at Vail hotel offers a unique Vail lodging experience in an incomparable setting on beautiful Gore Creek, in Lionshead facing Vail Ski Resort. Just 150 yards from Vail’s Lionshead Gondola and footsteps from the free in-town shuttle, this Vail hotel is conveniently located to Vail Colorado’s shopping, restaurants and nightlife. Ranging from studio suites to four bedroom vacation homes, all spacious condo rentals include a full kitchen, private balcony, daily housekeeping, complimentary WiFi, heated underground parking and much more. Enjoy a crackling fire in your living room fireplace, admire the view from your private balcony or relax in the picturesque pool or hot tubs located on the banks of the Gore Creek.
FREE Wireless high speed internet access
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Located steps from Vail Mountain, Montaneros offers superior 1- to 4-bedroom condominiums with exceptional guest services and amenities. Set in Lionshead Village, this quaint mountain lodge offers convenient access to Village shops, restaurants, nightlife and many recreational activities. Replete with luxurious in-room and on-site amenities, Montaneros boasts an outdoor heated pool, outdoor hot tub and sauna, and a ski storage room.
Complimentary internet access
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A RockResort combines all the elegance and charm of an intimate alpine chalet with superb amenities including RockResorts Spa®, award-winning dining, on-mountain ski storage, two outdoor heated pools, and six hot tubs and more. Ideally located at the base of Vail Mountain, in the heart of vibrant Vail Village,
SPECIAL OFFER – 33% OFF Valid 18th Nov – 24th Dec & 2nd Jan – 16th April. 20% OFF Valid 25th Dec – 1st Jan
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Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking White River National Forest, you’ll find some of the best skiing, The Holiday Inn , Apex Vail resort hotel’s in Vail, Colorado is in the middle of it all! A free free shuttle in the winter months to nearby Lionshead and Vail Village. Plus We’re only 10 miles from Beaver Creek too
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The 20 acre Vail Racquet Club Mountain Resort is located in quiet, East Vail. Choose from 1, 2 or 3 bedroom, full sized condos or a 3 bedroom townhome. All are individually decorated and quality controlled by the Vail Valley Chamber with a high Gold rating.
Blu’s Restaurant & Bar is on-site and serves dinner nightly (seasonally). Resort parking is free. Guests take Vail’s free shuttle service to the slopes; with 2 stops on property. The bus runs every 15-20 minutes in season.
Full service health club and extensive amenities are complimentary for all resort guests. Includes: weights & cardio, fitness classes, sauna & steam, year-round heated pool, 2 hot tubs, communal park & BBQ patio and children’s playground.
All units have full sized kitchen and living areas with a fireplace and pull out sofa sleeper. Bedding configurations vary in the second and third bedrooms with either a queen or two twin beds. The master bedroom will always have one queen bed.
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Christmas /NYE/Holidays: 7 Night minimum stay
Situated in Mountain Village, Lumière with Inspirato is a modern luxury boutique ski-in-ski-out hotel which commands a front row view of the San Juan Mountains. Made up of 18, one to five-bedroom residences and penthouses, each individual space has been styled to exude an organic, modern chicness, pairing clean lines, a lighter colour palette and natural fabrics of understated luxury. The hotel pays homage to the 140- year-old town with spaces adorned with bygone mining and skiing elements integral to the fabric of Telluride.
All accommodations feature Egyptian cotton linens, LATHER bathroom products, complimentary Wi-Fi and unrivalled mountain views. Residences and penthouses also include Subzero refrigerators, Wolf gas ranges, fireplaces, and in-unit washer/dryer convenience. In addition, guests can enjoy custom itinerary creation, pre-arrival grocery delivery, and the daily attention of an on-site concierge.
The hotel was recently ranked #4 of the Top Hotels in Colorado by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler.
Amenties include:
Early Winter Nov 27th – Dec 25th,2019 – Stay 3 Nights or more and get 30% off
Jan 1st – April 5th,2020 – Receive 5th Night free
Stay 4 Nights get 5th Night FREE
Stay 10 Nights and get 2 Nights FREE
Mountain Lodge Telluride invites you to experience the rustic elegance, Western allure and simple luxury of our Telluride accommodations. Richly furnished with soft leather furniture and a log cabin motif that evokes the spirit of Colorado, our charming lodge rooms, spacious suites, luxurious residences, and rustic log cabins offer a perfect retreat. Designed with a blend of Western charm and modern chic, our Telluride lodging features gourmet kitchens, jetted tubs, cozy fireplaces, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Embrace the thoughtful style and warmth of this Telluride mountain oasis and enjoy the spectacular alpine views and fresh mountain breezes that beckon you to explore the great outdoors at our intimate Telluride resort. Relax on your private balcony overlooking rugged 14,000-foot peaks or gaze at the stars against the velvety night sky.
Intimate Telluride Lodging with Rustic Mountain Charm
Lorian is located in Telluride mountain village core with ski-in/out access. The beautiful condominiums at Lorian come equipped with hardwood floors, private decks, beautiful views and top of the line furnishing, finishes, appliances and amenities. Lorian is perfect for a family vacation or a special getaway. First completed last ski season, lorian has rapidly become the premier vacation lodging choice in mountain village.
Hotel Madeline Telluride is one of the premier properties in Telluride with a perfect location and great service, it suits families and couples who want to be right in the heart of everything. The Madeline is Telluride only Only Four-Diamond, Full Service Hotel
With the heated pool and hot tub and ice skating rink even when you are not skiing there is something to do.
The hotel is located in the spectacular historic town of Telluride on the Gondola Plaza, gateway to Telluride Ski Area and summer mountain activities.
Our hotel affords the highest level of comfort and personal service. The luxurious rooms, suites and condominiums feature balconies, fireplaces, custom-crafted furniture, Italian marble bathrooms and oversized tubs.
The Blue Mesa Lodge has hotel rooms and condos and is centrally located, on-mountain accommodations. Located in the Mountain Village Core at the top of Lift 1 amd the base of Lift 4 and is only a few steps to the free gondola which takes you to Telluride
This is moderate and well priced ski in ski out property whas all the ameanitites you needs for your trip to Telluride.
Snow Flower Condominiums offer one of the best ski-in/ski-out locations to the largest resort in the United States. The property is located on the slopes of Park City Mountain’s base area just a few steps from three chairlifts: First Time, Eagle and Three Kings which will connect you to the new Quicksilver Gondola joining Park City Mountain and Canyons. Snow Flower offers a wide variety of various condominium sizes, layouts and styles and has something for everyone.
Superb location at the Town Lift for ski-in/ ski-out access to Park City. These one to three bedroom condos, located in the heart of historic Main Street, offer shopping, dining and nightlife right out your door. Hop on the free town shuttle for easy access to Deer Valley Resort, Park City Mountain Resort base, Utah Olympic Park Tanger Outlets and many other popular destinations. The complex offers one common area hot tub and a ski shop in the building. One of the best locations in town!
The Yarrow Hotel is ideally located in the heart of Park City, you will find your accommodations comfortable and welcoming. Choose a deluxe king or double queen guestroom, studio with kitchenette, or multi-room suite. freshly renovated in 2006 with new carpeting, wall coverings, furniture and softgoods
With a prime location just minutes from the world-class ski resorts of Park City the hotel offers the kind of warm hospitality, inviting atmosphere and top notch services sure to please business and leisure travellers alike.
This property is a combination of beautiful design, exceptional ski-in / ski-out location, attentive service and livable luxury. It has a variety of accommodation styles to suit the most diverse families and groups
SPECIAL: Stay 10 nights Pay 8
Luxurious amenities, and a magnificent slopeside location are trademarks of The St. Regis Deer Crest Resort
The Thredbo Alpine Hotel is smack bang in the heart of the village, just metres from the base of the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift. The Hotel is a boutique property with an alluring sense of alpine culture – it has great character, charm and warmth. The rooms are comfortable and cosy, the dining outstanding and the staff friendly and welcoming.
Within the Hotel are Restaurants and Bars galore! From the hotel you can either step outside to slopes or into the bustling Village Square that is full of shopping delights and conveniences. Staying at the Thredbo Alpine Hotel you are only a snowball’s throw from everything, a perfect place for your snow escape.
SPECIALS: kids ski and stay free in selected weeks in June and September
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These fully self-contained apartments sleep up from 2 to 8 guests. Boasting spectacular views from the balconies, latest release in-house movies, satellite TV, complete kitchen with dishwasher, fan forced oven and microwave. Crockery, cutlery and cookware, sleeps 2 in separate bedroom. Comfortable, quality furnishings, TV, CD stereo and DVD video player. Spa bath. Drying room for wet gear. All linen and towels provided and your own laundry with dryer.
SPECIAL: Kids ski and stay free in selected weeks in June and September
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1 bedroom apartment from $664.00 for a weekend stay, sleeps up to 4 guests. Choose from one bedroom, two bedroom apartments and 3 bedroom plus loft apartments. In a central position located five minutes walk to Kosciuszko Express Chair, each apartment has complete kitchen with dishwasher, fan forced oven, microwave, sofa-bed in living room and your own laundry with dryer. Car park on site. Some apartments with spa bath
and some with wood burning fireplace.
SPECIALS: Kids ski and stay free in selected weeks in June and September
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2.5 Bedroom apartment from $980.00 for the weekend, this luxury apartments is fully self-contained & sleeps up to 6 guests. Elevation is an architecturally iconic Thredbo landmark accommodation. Elevation apartment complex perched high in the valley and rises 7 stories, the views, the quality & convenience are unsurpassed in Thredbo.
Redefining the standard of accommodation in Thredbo, the Elevation apartments have become the new premier luxury place to stay in both summer and winter. Located in the heart of the village off Bobuck Lane for easy access to all that Thredbo has to offer.
Elevation Apartments have an internal lift, ski storage and on-site parking. All apartments feature a private balcony with views of Thredbo Ski Resort, a gas fireplace, BBQ, full kitchen, Flatscreen satellite TV, DVD player. Laundry facilities are available.
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1 Bedroom apartment from: 2 nights $560.00, 5 nights $1050.00, 7 nights $1225.00 for up to 4 guests. Spacious studio, one bedroom and two bedroom apartments feature invitingly open living spaces to maximize natural light and views. These contemporary high end ski apartments incorporate the full breadth of simple yet luxurious design by incorporating the sleek simple angles of modern Australian mountain architecture into what is arguably the most convenient
central location in Thredbo village.
SPECIALS: kids ski and stay free in selected weeks in June and September
Room Descriptions
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Pricing from: 2 nights $830.00, 5 nights $1849.00, 7 nights $2440.00. Snowstream Apartments & Chalets in the Woodridge area of Thredbo the highest quality luxury accommodation with unbeatable views of the picture perfect Thredbo ski fields & snowy mountains. With the prime location in “new Woodridge” opposite Friday Flat, Snowstream offers it all, 2, 3, 4 bedrooms, decks with BBQ’s and luxurious furnishings in what can almost be described as a “ski in ski out’ location.
SPECIALS: kids ski and stay free in selected weeks in June and September
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Studio apartment from $620.00 for the weekend, fully self-contained & sleeps up to 3 guests. Squatters Run is an award winning development located in the village square in the centre of Thredbo Ski Resort. Squatters Run Apartments offer uninterrupted panoramic views along with location & luxury. Everything is right at your doorstep; shops, restaurants, bars and ski lifts!
All apartments include: full kitchens with quality appliances, full bathrooms, (2 bedroom apartments have a 2nd bathroom) balconies with mountain views, underfloor heating, TV, DVD & soundsystem, laundry facilities, heated and secure ski & snowboard storage and drying room and carparking. You don’t have to look any further for the perfect alpine holiday accommodation.
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Double or Twin Room from $596.00 for the weekend including breakfast & dinner for 2 Adults. The River Inn is in arguably the best location in Thredbo particularly for families. It is the only ski-in, ski-out hotel accommodation in Thredbo with direct access to Friday Flat and Thredboland kids ski school. Located on snow next to the Gunbarrel Chair Lift, meaning you can ski to the chairlift to access the whole mountain, or cruise down to the Friday Flat beginner’s area. The hotel features a heated indoor spa, a guest lounge with fireplace & bar area, internet access & overnight parking.
Accommodation price includes breakfast and some dinners. The new Bavarian Bar & Restaurant offers a wide range of meals and Barvarian beers on tap, at lunch time they have a BBQ on the North facing deck!
Rooms are equipped with a variety of bedding configurations, ensuite bathrooms, TV, DVD, AUSTAR, tea & coffee making facilities, including interconnecting family rooms and a deluxe family suite. Also available are spa rooms and large group rooms.
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Pricing from: 2 nights $474.00, 5 nights $1030.00, 7 nights $1309.00.
These cosy cabins are ideal for couples or families & overlook the Thredbo River and Golf Course with views across the Crackenback Ridge. Located a short walk from the Village Square & Kosciuszko Express Chairlift with a shuttle bus stop located nearby in winter. Each cabin is fully self-contained and includes linen, a fully equipped kitchen (with microwave and dishwasher) and TV. Most cabins have balconies.
SPECIALS: kids ski and stay free in selected weeks in June and September
Room Descriptions
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LONG STAY SPECIALS:
• Stay 7 Nights / Pay 6 | Minimum 7-night stay
• Stay 10 Nights / Pay 8 | Minimum 10-night stay
• Stay 14 Nights / Pay 10 | Minimum 14-night stay
Valid for check-ins from: November 29, 2019 until April 11, 2020
Blackout Dates: December 20,2019 – 04 January,2020: February 14 – 22,2020
Snow Creek Lodge offers a ski-in/ski-down location right at the base of the mountain, with a heated outdoor swimming pool, two whirlpools, fitness room, meeting room and alpine room. These condominiums offer one and two bedroom suites featuring early Canadian architecture with stone, logs and wood, with decks or balconies, full kitchen facilities, gas fireplace and cable TV. Other common areas include a nurturing center for massages, ski lockers, heated underground security parking and elevators.
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LONG STAY SPECIALS:
• Stay 7 Nights / Pay 6 | Minimum 7-night stay
• Stay 10 Nights / Pay 8 | Minimum 10-night stay
• Stay 14 Nights / Pay 10 | Minimum 14-night stay
Valid for check-ins from: November 29, 2019 until April 11, 2020
Blackout Dates: December 20,2019 – 04 January,2020: February 14 – 22,2020
Timberline Lodges offers five lodges in one convenient location just a short walk to the lifts. The lodge offers fully equipped one and two bedroom and suites with lofts, gas fireplaces, and balconies. Onsite are heated outdoor pool and whirlpools, exercise room, games room and common laundry.
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The Sutton Place Hotel Revelstoke Mountain Resort is a true ski-in, ski-out luxury condominium style hotel, consisting of 3 buildings connected by an underground heated parking facility, and serviced by a beautifully appointed central lobby. This smoke-free property features 205 condominium hotel units, premium amenities and three on-site dining experiences; Rockford Wok | Bar | Grill, The Mackenzie Common Tavern and La Baguette, located in the village next to the Revelation Gondola, minutes from downtown Revelstoke. Room types include the Signature Studio Suite, and One, Two and Three Bedroom Suites that sleep up to 8 guests.
Internet Access
Wireless High Speed Internet Access in Guest Rooms is complimentary
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The Hillcrest Hotel, a Coast Resort, is located at the gateway to Glacier & Mount Revelstoke National Parks in between the Selkirk and Monashee Mountains near Revelstoke BC. Our mountain-side location is just 3 km from Revelstoke’s city centre. Facilities include an exercise room, steam room, sauna, 2 hot tubs and a dining room with various cuisines.
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LONG STAY OFFER: Book by November 30,2019 and take an additional 5% OFF
Available: All room categories for stays of 7 Nights or more.
Valid: November 01,2019 – April 30,2020
Not applicable for group bookings, Service Charges are not discounted, Discount not available December 20,2019 – January 04,2020, can be Combined with the Early Bird Offer.
The Fairmont Banff Springs offers stunning vistas. Its unique blend of opulence and seclusion has been a symbol of Rocky Mountain magnificence for more than a century. Styled after a Scottish baronial castle, The Fairmont Banff Springs offers championship golf courses, unparalleled skiing, classic cuisine and Willow Stream, a world class European-style spa. Experience timeless beauty and luxurious comfort in a pristine wilderness
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LONG STAY OFFER: Book by November 30,2019 and take an additional 5% OFF
Available: All room categories for stays of 7 Nights or more.
Valid: November 01,2019 – April 30,2020
Not applicable for group bookings, Service Charges are not discounted, Discount not available December 20,2019 – January 04,2020, can be Combined with the Early Bird Offer.
Located on the shores of Lake Louise and just 3km from the Lake Louise Ski Area. Guests will be mesmerised by dramatic views of the Canadian Rockies and Victoria Glacier, while taking advantage of modern facilities. Features health club with heated pool, whirlpool, sauna, shops and boutiques.