Six insights to plan your summer recharge in Whistler.

Plan your perfect recharge in Whistler this summer.

There is something new to experience in Whistler every season including the summer. No wonder it’s a local favorite for long weekend getaways. If you’ve been before and debating whether to go again, you may just need some ideas for making the trip seem fresh. That was the challenge of this recharge too. 

Start by changing your hotel and/or the type of room to change your experience. Hotels often offer different guest experiences whether it’s paella night on the patio, group exercise classes or excursions to local attractions. It’s also a good way to kickstart some new healthy habits.

Six ways to recharge in Whistler this summer

1/ Hike Peak to Peak Gondola

The Peak to Peak Gondola was a highlight of this recharge. Whether you like hiking or not, it’s worth doing. Take the Blackcomb gondola up from the base and keep riding the lifts up until you hit the peak. The views from the top are spectacular. Once you’ve taken in the sites, spend an hour or two hiking down to the Peak to Peak Gondola. You’ll meet other hikers from all over the world and may even see some very large and furry ground hogs on the path. Have a light lunch at the cafe to enjoy the views and ride down for a hot bubble bath before dinner.

2/ Bike to Green Lake

Harbour Air lands on Green Lake but other than that there isn’t much direct access to the lake. It’s an exclusive neighborhood with a private golf course, Nicolas of the North and a lovely path for walking and biking part of the shoreline. It’s beautiful so to see it, start at the head of Lost Lake trail in Blackcomb and keep riding the Lost Lake trail North. The trails are well marked and well traveled by other hikers and bikers. The tree lined trails help you keep cool but if get hot, stop for a dip in Lost Lake. There are several public docks off the trail to access the lake. The Lost Lake PassivHaus is a nice place to stop for a coffee and treat at the end of your ride.

3/ Golf at the Whistler Golf Club

There are several golf courses in Whistler but the Whistler Golf Club is accessible for all and beautiful. With that said, it’s a busy course so getting a tee time can be tricky. Plan ahead or try to walk on and hope there is a cancelation. If you’re new to golf, the practice range is a short walk from the course and it’s staffed with pros to help you. Everything you need to play can be rented. If you’re ready for a more challenging course, head to the Fairmount Golf Course even if you’re not a Fairmont guest. Both courses are walking distance from the Village.

4/ Viist the Squamish Lil’Wat Community Centre

The Squamish Lil’Wat Community Centre is open to the public even though the front entrance is still under construction. It’s a beautiful space with a thoughtful presentation of the two tribes. Take the guided tour to hear a traditional song, how the tribal people harvest Cedar bark for their products and the bedtime stories told to their children to keep them safe. Watch the film to hear from the Chiefs, explore the exhibits on your own and try some authentic treats and light bites at the cafe.

5/ Dine at the Wild Blue

Wild Blue Restaurant and Bar is fairly new and it’s one of the top 100 new restaurants in Canada. It is an experience from the moment you open the door. If a tasting menu is offered, try it to get a better appreciation for the range of dishes. The creativity of the food will impress you while leaving you feeling very satisfied and nourished. Pair one of the wine tasting menus with your dinner to get the full experience. Plan ahead especially if you want a table. Bar seating is also by reservation and the staff make it a fun way to enjoy the experience.

6/ Shop the Sunday market

Shop the Sunday market in the Upper Village for fresh produce, meat, wine, prepared foods, and unique clothing and gifts. It’s the perfect opportunity get the ingredients needed to cook a simple meal in your suite or pick up a few favorites. Fort Berens Estate Winery located a few hours North of Whistler is one of Canada’s best wineries and one of the purveyors at the market. For a little adrenaline rush before you pack it in, take a turn on the trampoline.

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