Five insights for a spring recharge in Whistler, BC.

Plan your perfect spring recharge in Whistler, BC.

Spring is a good time for a quick recharge in Whistler, BC. It is a transitional season with some favorites like the Peak-to-Peak lift closed for mountain maintenance. However, there is still a lot to do and experience.

Five ways to recharge in Whistler this spring

1/ Walk and shop the Village

Enjoy the fresh mountain air while you walk and shop the Village. It has lots of restaurants, shops, museums and services as well as outdoor areas to relax and enjoy nature. A few local favorites worth adding to your list: 3 singing birds, Alta Bristro and Nagomi Sushi. 

There are several different ways to get to and from the Upper Village. One of my favorites is the Salish Stroll Forest Walk created by Fairmont in partnership with the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre. It’s a beautiful walk through the forest that is both informative and restorative. The benches and stools along the path are perfect for seated meditation.

2/ Bike or hike to Lost Lake and beyond

There are a ton of well groomed trails to either ride or hike around the lower parts of the mountains and to the nearby lakes. Restrooms, bike racks and other amenities are available at Lost Lake and likely the others too. If you want to visit them all, bike rather than hike especially if you have a limited amount of time. The lakes are pretty to look at and enjoy if you want a Nordic plunge.

3/ Shuttle or drive to hike the Narin Falls

The Narin Falls are a located a short drive from the Fairmont Whistler. Shuttle rides are offered from the hotel once per day or you can drive. There is plenty of parking if you go early in the day.

The hike to the falls is picturesque and takes about 30-40 minutes. The main path is well traveled but it’s always wise to take a bear whistle and other hiking basics just in case. Take one of the less beaten paths along the way if you want to feel the water or take a dip. Signage at the falls provides information about the color, bridges and pools. Fences prevent water access. 

4/ Relax at the Scandinave Spa

Spend an afternoon or more at the Scandinave Spa. The spa has a number of steam rooms, saunas, hot tubs, cold plunges and relaxation areas to rest and restore your mind and body. The staff recommend doing the whole experience three to four times to get the full effect but once may be enough especially on a warm day. 

Bring a book to read or add a massage. If you don’t book a massage with your reservation, watch for openings on the signage as you enter. Cancelations are offered at a 20% discount which makes the offer almost too good to pass up. The Swedish Massage is the only full body massage offered.

5/ Visit the Audain Art Museum

The Audain Art Museum is worth visiting for the architecture alone. The way the building captures light and frames the natural beauty around the museum is stunningly beautiful. Plan to spend a few hours to see both exhibits: the permanent collection and the traveling exhibit.

Visit the gift shop after for prints of your favorite art and other special gifts. If the power goes out while you’re there, ask for a free pass to return another day. Power outages happen more than you might expect. Lastly, check the museum calendar for special performances and concerts.

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