Whistler Magazine Winter 2026 by Pacific Coastal Publications LP

OH SO CANADIAN

Whistler offers many quintessential activities for experiencing the Great White North!

COMPLIMENTARY MAGAZINE

Please take one

AUDAIN ART MUSEUM 10TH ANNIVERSARY

FINE CUISINE & GREAT BURGERS

TRAVELLERS SET DOWN ROOTS

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre/Logan Swayze Photography

Xwalacktun, He-yay meymuy (Big Flood), 2014-15

Photo by Oisin McHugh

FACES OF WHISTLER: Finding Home, 17 BY NEVILLE JUDD

COVER STORY: Quintessentially Canadian, 22 BY ALYSSA NOEL

ARTS & CULTURE: Great Strides, 31 BY DAVID SONG

WHISTLER HOMES: Coming Home, 38 BY LISE BOULLARD

FINE DINING: Fine Canadian Cuisine, 56 BY WILL JOHNSON

CASUAL DINING: Burger Kingdom, 67 BY BRANDON BARRETT

& Culture, 36

Whistler, 46 Services Directory, 55

Roots, 64 Calendar of Events, 72 Village Map, 74

BRANDON BARRETT is the former features editor for Pique Newsmagazine He is the 2018 recipient of the John Collison Investigative Journalism Award. He is a theatre producer, performer and playwright. LISE BOULLARD is a journalist with bylines in Reader’s Digest, The Vancouver Sun and The North Shore News. When not glued to her laptop, Lise can be found cooking, travelling and volunteering with service dogs. WILL JOHNSON is a journalist, whitewater rafting guide and actor from Vancouver Island— where he lives with his wife Kristina and his children Celista, Kris and Aza on the slope of Mount Tzouhalem.

NEVILLE JUDD began his journalism career in the UK before moving to Canada where he worked for The Province, covering sports and adventure. His travel stories have appeared in UK and North American dailies for many years.

SONG is a news and sports journalist for Pique Newsmagazine who moved to Whistler in 2022 after nearly two decades in Calgary, Alberta. He has covered everything from March Madness basketball to PGA Tour Champions. Originally from Alberta, ALYSSA NOEL is Pique Newsmagazine’s former arts editor. She has an M.A. in arts and culture reporting, and her work has appeared in various publications throughout Canada. Dubbed the ‘backcountry poet’, BRONWYN PREECE is the author of Sea to Sky Alphabet (Simply Read Books, 2024) and knee deep in high water … (Caitlin Press, 2023) among many other publications.

COVER PHOTO BY BLAKE JORGENSON

DAVID

What is your favourite thing to do during a Canadian winter?

GENERAL MANAGER, ADVERTISING/OPERATIONS

Catherine Power Chartrand

EDITOR

Alison Taylor

ART DIRECTOR

Shelley Ackerman

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

“Stopping on the side of a ski run and watching the sun come up over the Coast Mountains and thinking about my unbelievable good fortune to call Whistler, and Canada, home.”

“When I'm not hibernating with my streaming services, I like to marinate in the hot tub and sauna before cold plunging into the pool.”

Brandon Barrett

Lise Boullard

Will Johnson

Neville Judd

Alyssa Noel

Bronwyn Preece

David Song

PHOTOGRAPHERS & ILLUSTRATORS

Jeremy Allen

Scott Brammer

David Buzzard

Mike Crane

Getty Images

Justa Jeskova

Blake Jorgenson

Kristen McGaughey

Gregory Lum

Rob Perry

Claire Ryan

Tourism Whistler

GROUP PUBLISHER

Sarah Strother

ACCOUNTING

Heidi Rode

CIRCULATION/DISTRIBUTION

Denise Conway

“Skating on a perfectly frozen Whistler lake. It doesn't happen often but when it does, you can skate for miles while viewing the lake bottom through the crystal clear ice. There is nothing more magical and Canadian!”

“Being the bad Canadian I am, I try to avoid winter at all costs. It's a great excuse to curl up with a good book by the fire, alongside a prodigious spread of my favourite snacks.”

“Eat a plate of poutine for lunch in between West Coast powder runs!”

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EXPERIENCING THE HEART AND SOUL OF CANADA

One of the perks of living in a resort town is that we get to see our everyday world through the eyes of the people who visit.

It offers us a reminder of just how lucky we are to live here.

We get to see our guests experience the alpenglow that bathes the afternoon mountain peaks in orange and purple and gold; we get to relive the magic of walking around in the complete stillness and solitude of a snowladen forest; and, revel in the thrill of someone experiencing snow for the first time, giddy with joy in something as simple as building a snowman, making a snow angel, or sticking out your tongue and catching snowflakes. For many of us, this is part of our collective experience as Canadians.

In Whistler, however, we like to up the game, as we do in all things—snowmobiling through the forest to farflung backcountry cabins, playing shinny on frozen ice under the snowcapped banner of the mountains, or travelling by helicopter to an ancient crystal-blue ice cave hidden under a thick glacier.

ALISON TAYLOR Editor

A Whistler winter, for the million plus visitors who come every snowy season, offers the ultimate slice of Canadiana.

In this issue of Whistler Magazine we pay homage to all of that, and more. Because being Canadian, after all, is so much more than back bacon and beer, or snow and ice in the Great White North.

At its heart, being Canadian is all about the people who call this place home—polite, humble, laidback. It’s one of the reasons why people want to set down roots here (read our story on page 17 about some of the people born elsewhere who choose to call Whistler home). It’s also why people want to visit, knowing that they’re coming to a place that’s safe and welcoming, a place with clean air and fresh

water, a place where they can be themselves. Whistler has this dialled.

Sometimes it’s a feeling that’s hard to put your finger on. You’ll find it when you talk to your servers at any of the local restaurants (read more in our dining sections to learn more about how we’re keeping things Canadian in the kitchen). You’ll encounter it on the chairlift or the gondola when you catch a ride with locals who are only too happy to talk about Whistler, and perhaps offer an inside tip or two to help you during your visit. You’ll discover it as you experience the natural world around us and the bounty it has to offer, a place that provides us, and our guests, a welcome respite for reflection and peace and gratitude.

In our ever-changing world, and its shifting geopolitical landscape, we know just how fortunate we are to call Whistler, and Canada home. We’re so happy to share it with you.

BY ALISON TAYLOR

FRESH TRACKS THINGS TO DO & SEE

[ IN & AROUND WHISTLER ]

NORTH AND SOUTH

The unique geology of the Sea to Sky corridor is one way to get your bearings while in town. To the south, the aptly named Black Tusk reaches towards the sky. This is an extinct volcano, formed roughly 170,000 years ago during a period of glaciation. The tusk is built up from layers of hardened lava and volcanic ash. Head to the top of the Peak Chair on Whistler Mountain for one of the best views. To the north is another unique mountain feature—Armchair Glacier. It looks like a cozy white massive chair, combined with the neighbouring massive Weart Glacier. Above it sits Wedge Mountain, with another distinctive shape, the highest peak in Garibaldi Provincial Park at 2,895 metres (9,498 feet).

RING OF FIRE

Local skiers and snowboarders showcase their talent every Sunday throughout the winter at the weekly Fire & Ice show in Whistler Village. Jumping through a burning ring of fire to music and pyrotechnics, this is one way to build excitement for the coming ski week. Follow the crowds to Skiers Plaza at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains every Sunday at 7:30 p.m for the 30 minute show. Fire & Ice runs from Jan. 4 to March 1, with a special New Year’s Eve show.

EAGLE COUNT

From November to January eagle viewing is at its peak in Squamish at the Squamish River watershed. This is one of the most significant areas of wintering bald eagles in North America. In 1994, Squamish had the world record count of 3,769 eagles. Head to Brackendale Eagles Park where the rich riparian area provides an amazing habitat for roosting, perching and feeding.

AFTER DARK FOREST MAGIC

As night falls in Whistler and darkness descends, the forest at Cougar Mountain begins to light up. It’s called Vallea Lumina, a magical multimedia nighttime walk with talking trees and flying fish and an enchanting story that takes you on a journey through the forest. This is a family-friendly experience with an eternal appeal for all ages. Cougar Mountain is just 15 minutes north of the Village and The Adventure Group makes the Vallea Lumina experience easy and seamless with a shuttle to and fro. Check out more adventures at tagwhistler.com to combine Vallea Lumina with another activity.

APRÈS SCENE

Après in Whistler is almost as legendary as the skiing itself. This ageold ski tradition of gathering and raising a glass in celebration at the end of a great day in the mountains is an integral part of the ski experience. For the best experience, go straight to the bar after ski-out (don’t detour home to change out of those ski boots!). Find some live music and good beer. Share a plate of nachos. And enjoy!

BUNGEE JUMPING

Experience the rush from jumping 160 feet over the glacial waters of the Cheakamus River, with Whistler Bungee. For info, go to whistlerbungee.com

HELISKIING

This is the ultimate ski experience with no lift lines and backcountry powder stretching for miles. Check out whistlerheliskiing.com

ZIPLINING

Soar across the mountains and through the trees with Ziptrek, unleashing your inner superman! See ziptrek.com

FRESH TRACKS

STARSTRUCK

Keep your eyes peeled for celebs while in town. Whistler is a place where stars like to unwind. David and Victoria Beckham. Jason Momoa. Chelsea Handler (who is practically a local now). Former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Last winter Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, pictured above, visited Whistler as part of the Invictus Games, the international sporting competition created by Prince Harry for wounded, injured and sick military personnel and veterans. You never know who you’ll see!

NORDIC ADVENTURES

Snowboarding and downhill skiing may be the sport of choice in Whistler. And yet, this is also home to one of the best Nordic facilities in North America, Whistler Olympic Park (WOP). A legacy from the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, WOP is nestled in the spectacular Callaghan Valley, south of Whistler. There are trails for all abilities, equipment rentals on site, and a day lodge to fuel your athletic pursuits. Go to whistlerolympicpark.com for tickets and conditions. There is also the spectacular 25 kms network of trails at Lost Lake Park, just five minutes from the Village. You can rent equipment on site. Check out crosscountryconnection.ca

AFTERNOON DE-LIGHT

Look up! Way up! Whistler’s late afternoon and nighttime sky is a special treat. It begins at the end of the ski day with the afternoon alpenglow, when the sky turns pink, orange and purple as the sun dips behind the mountains. When the stars come out, head to darker areas outside the Village such as Lost Lake or Rainbow Park for a crisp and clear view of the incredible number of stars you would never normally see in urban centres.

HIT THE LINKS

Golf season is just around the corner, even though it might not feel that way when the wind is cutting through your down jacket and the snow banks are above your head. In Whistler you can stay ahead of the game at The Cabin, the indoor practice facility at Nicklaus North with its state of the art simulator play. Visit Royal Troon in Scotland or Pebble Beach in California— there are more than 80 different courses on the simulator. With a maximum of six players per session, and sessions lasting up to four hours, this is a great way to spend a winter’s day while honing your skills for the coming summer season. Private lessons are also available throughout the winter. Check out nicklausnorth.com

60 YEARS AND COUNTING

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of Whistler Mountain, Whistler Blackcomb has created the Wonder Routes, seven self-guided themed routes around the mountains. Take the Top of the World route, connecting the highest points on both mountains, or the Gold Medal route, touring the terrain of the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, or the Alpine Sample, select alpine bowls, groomers and glades for intermediate skiers. The Wonder Routes are a great way to whet your appetite for all Whistler Blackcomb has to offer. Check out whistlerblackcomb.com

“RUNS ARE OPEN” FOR EARLY BIRDS

There are so many ways to enjoy Whistler Blackcomb and so much to explore, from the terrain parks to the tube park, the fine dining at 1,800 metres (6,000 feet) and the post-ski après scene. But there is something so sublime about First Tracks an unforgettable experience of getting an early gondola upload before the crowds and having your choice of untouched runs as the sun rises above the mountains. Even better when there’s fresh powder! The gondolas load between 7:30 and 8 am, up to an hour before Whistler Blackcomb opens. Head into the Roundhouse for light refreshments and get ready for the call “Runs are open.” First Tracks tickets include a $17 food voucher that can be used any time throughout the day. Insider TIP: Don’t ski or ride to the bottom where you’ll run into crowds; lap Big Red Express or Emerald Express until the alpine opens. Tickets must be bought in advance and may sell out. Go to whistlerblackcomb.com

SHOULDER SEASON SURPRISES

When Whistler Mountain opened for skiing 60 years ago (January 1966), Whistler was a small ski outpost, with one gondola, one chairlift and two T-bars to its name. As the town grew into an international ski resort, so too did its offerings, particularly in the summer time. But the shoulder seasons—those twice-annual stretches of time between summer and winter and winter and summer—were always slow. Until now. Whistler fills these shoulder seasons with so many reasons to visit, like the dinner specials at award-winning restaurants or the events—the Writers Festival, the Beer Festival, Cornucopia, Nourish, and more. As it turns out, there’s always a reason to come to Whistler.

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FRESH TRACKS

HOT, COLD, AND RELAX

Whistler’s Scandinave Spa is one of the best ways to unwind after a day on the slopes, or on any day, for that matter. If you follow it as prescribed, the experience will leave you feeling relaxed and tingly, rejuvenated and ready to tackle fresh mountain adventures. The thermal journey begins by unplugging from the phone and embracing silence. Then, follow the path to the steam room, sauna or hot tub and begin the cycle of hot, cold, and relaxation. Set in the quiet forest, the Scandinave is a full mind and body experience. Bring a book. Carve out time. Indulge in a massage while there. And don’t forget to brave the icy waterfall…if you dare. Check out scandinave.com

STILL ONE FOR THE RECORD BOOKS

Whistler’s Peak 2 Peak Gondola isn’t just another gondola. This feat of engineering links Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, giving skiers and riders quicker access to the alpine areas in both. It’s also a world-record holder: the highest lift of its kind, reaching 436 metres (1,427 feet) above the valley floor. When it was built in 2008, it also boasted the longest unsupported span at 3.028 kilometres (1.88 miles) but lost that claim in 2017. It’s also a pretty spectacular ride on a crisp and clear winter’s day! W

S

Snowshoe Adventure

FINDING HOME

TRAVELLERS PUT DOWN ROOTS IN WHISTLER

STORY BY NEVILLE JUDD

What does it mean to call Canada home? From Angela Bueno’s journey from the Philippines to empowering new immigrants, to Australians Nathan White and Nathaniel Furst building lives and a business amid the mountains, and Japanese-born restaurateur Naoko Homma finding balance here, these stories reveal resilience, community, and the many ways people find a sense of belonging in Whistler. >>

ANGELA BUENO

NATHAN WHITE AND NATHANIEL FURST | CVC CUSTOM BUILDERS

For two guys who’d never met before coming to Canada, Nathan White and Nathaniel Furst share a lot in common. Both in their 30s, married or engaged to Canadians, dads of daughters born in the past year, and proud Aussies turned dual citizens, the business partners first came to Whistler in 2011 for the same reasons most Aussies do.

“I came that November with a mate who’s still here, just to see what travel’s all about, a couple of 20-year-olds who were pretty carefree and up to have a good time,” says White. “I could barely ski to be honest.”

“I’d applied for my work permit to come to Canada and the UK at the same time,” recalls Furst. “The Canadian one came first, so I booked a flight then and there. That was January 2011, my first ski season.”

They met years later in Alberta’s oil fields and realized they had many mutual Whistler friends. By 2015 they were back in town working construction.

“We partnered up on a project and then kept doing a few little ones together,” says Furst. “The industry was in a fair boom, and we ended up incorporating in March 2016.”

The mountains and seasons soon left their mark.

“One thing I noticed early on is that the summer is really celebrated here,” says Furst. “It’s short but the days are long, and everyone packs in everything they can into summer.”

“The mountains are unlike anything in Australia,” says White. “It’s just mind-blowing the size and the enormity of the alpine. It literally feels like you’re in a different world.”

Dual citizenship brought its own surprises. “Returning from Australia, you get through

“ALL OF OUR CANADIAN FRIENDS ARE THE NICEST, KINDEST FRIENDS IN THE GROUP , AND THEY’RE THE MOST APOLOGETIC.”

Vancouver and turn on to the Sea to Sky highway, there at Lions Bay, I’m like, ‘I just came from my home, but then, this is home.’ It’s an odd feeling but a good feeling,” says Furst.

“For me it’s Porteau Cove,” says White. “Going home means everything but every time I return, I'll always pull up at Porteau Cove. You’ve got the mountains and the ocean—it’s a pretty cool feeling.”

Canadian culture hasn’t gone unnoticed.

“Very friendly people,” says White. “All of our Canadian friends are the nicest, kindest friends in the group, and they’re the most apologetic.”

“Working in construction before working for myself, I noticed bosses were very nonconfrontational and there were guys not doing a very good job,” says Furst. “In Australia they would have had the hammer dropped on them. The Aussie way is a bit more blunt.”

Their advice to newcomers: enjoy the town, embrace like-minded people, and work hard.

“It took a lot of hard work to get ourselves up off the ground and establish ourselves,” says White.

“If you're willing to get stuck in and have a go, you can make it here,” says Furst.

NATHAN WHITE AND NATHANIEL FURST ROB PERRY

NAOKO HOMMA | SUSHI VILLAGE

It was only meant to be a working holiday, the chance to see a different country and learn some English. More than 30 years later, Naoko Homma has had plenty of time to reflect on changes to Whistler and to herself.

“My life is completely different because of Canada,” says Homma. “In Japan, it’s just work. Everybody was a workaholic. Here, I can work hard, but I can play hard, too. I live a well-balanced life because I work hard, but I can ski, golf, hike…This is the best place in the world to live.”

But not necessarily the easiest, she admits. “Whistler is very hard to start a life because everything is very expensive. The economy has changed big time. Everything was much cheaper when I came here 32 years ago.”

Born and raised in Okinawa, Japan, Homma worked as a travel agent for nine years before coming to Vancouver in 1993 at the age of 29. “I remember dealing with the language barrier and thinking about how much bigger Canada was than Japan, and the beautiful nature. I didn’t know about Whistler, but my friend invited me to come up.”

That’s when Naoko met Miki, aka Mikito

Homma, part-owner of Sushi Village. “Somehow, I met my husband,” she recalls. “I started to help him and ever since, I’m running the business. My husband had two other partners when he opened the restaurant. We took over in 2001. That’s when I felt like I belonged to this town.”

Miki passed away nine years ago at the age of 70. Naoko continues to run the business which turned 40 this year. In 2020 she won the Whistler Chamber’s Business Person of the Year.

“I’m usually at the front of the restaurant and I’ve taken over bookkeeping,” says Homma. “I’m still enjoying the restaurant and seeing the people. I still cook Japanese food at home but mostly I eat the staff meal made every day by the chef.”

Homma returns to Japan every year to see family and friends, and to indulge in Okinawan cuisine, particularly soba noodles. “Okinawa is like Hawaii, and the food is completely different. We can’t get the vegetables here to make Okinawan food.”

Her advice to newcomers: “It’s harder now. Whistler has many temptations and it’s easy to spend money on something stupid. Work hard and save money.”

ANGELA BUENO | WHISTLER MULTICULTURAL SOCIETY

Darkness is what Angela Bueno remembers most about her first Whistler winter 20 years ago. That and the snow.

“I thought it'd be dreamy, like a movie, but it was just cold,” she says. “When I think back, that's what I see…just dark.”

At 15, Bueno had immigrated to Canada with her two siblings and parents. Their permanent residency finally approved after a four-year wait in the Phillipines, the family almost didn’t come.

“My parents wanted us to come here for a better life but then my dad got his career dream job in the Philippines,” says Bueno. “I remember crying because my parents were saying that we weren’t going to go anymore. I was excited for change. I guess they listened to me!”

Adjusting to the elements may have been tough but school was easier.

“We came from a very big school in the Philippines where school is very strict. Here there were just 75 students in our grade, so I felt like it was easier to make friends.

Academically, it was much easier, too.”

The Bueno family soon became part of Whistler’s vibrant Filipino community. >>

NAOKO HOMMA

Today, Bueno is the mother of a seven-yearold girl and executive director of the Whistler Multicultural Society. Making immigrants feel welcome and helping them to navigate cultural differences is a big part of the society’s mandate. Check out wms.wmsociety.ca.

Bueno vividly recalls the cultural experiences that made an impression during her first year in Canada.

“I was surprised how people were so excited about Thanksgiving. I had no idea what Thanksgiving was. I was like, ‘why are they talking about this as if it's Christmas? Surely, it’s not as special as Christmas!’

“I also remember some of my classmates talking about how they don't go to church…

UNWIND

that a person could live without a religion. Like that’s a possibility? I didn't know. I thought you were born and then you have a religion. That's how it worked in the Philippines. You’re born and now you’re Catholic.”

The hardest part of adjusting to life in Canada was observing the uncertainties endured by her parents.

“My parents were very established in the Philippines, respected.” she says.

“When we first got our rental house in Emerald, the landlord came when my parents weren’t home and just walked in without asking for permission. I told my parents what had happened, and I remembered them being embarrassed by it.

“I look up to them. So, to see them be unsure was a little bit uncomfortable.”

Her advice for new immigrants?

“Find that community of immigrants willing to take you under their wing and help you find your way. It makes such a big difference.” This is can be easier to do in a place like Whistler.

She adds: “What I love most about Whistler is how it brings people together from all over the world yet still feels like a small, caring community.

“Immigrating here taught me resilience and what belonging truly means—not just finding a place to live, but a place where you’re seen, valued, and able to grow alongside others who chose to make this home too.” W

QUINTESSENTIALLY CANADIAN

FROM FOOD TO FUN AND THE GREAT OUTDOORS, VISITORS WILL FIND AUTHENTIC CANUCK CULTURE IN WHISTLER

STORY BY ALYSSA NOEL

Former raft guides james anderson and brett Easton were hosting a whitewater rafting bachelor party for Brett’s brother when they first planted the seed that would grow into Forged Axe Throwing.

“We needed to come up with a game we could play beside the campfire and we just started throwing axes,” Anderson says. “It was a huge hit. We just thought, ‘Oh man, visitors would love this side of campfire culture.’ I feel like it’s a wild cultural element for visitors [who] might not have seen it before.”

Fast forward to 2017 and the pair officially opened the doors to Forged in Whistler’s Function Junction neighbourhood. Since then, the space has tripled in size from two targets to 12. While many locals can be spotted wielding an axe, international visitors have been a big part of the clientele too.

“People are often really surprised they can have a beer,”

Anderson adds, with a laugh. “They say, ‘oh man, you can only get away with this in Canada.’ Obviously we had to overcome a lot of obstacles to allow people to safely have a beer in our venue, so we don’t take that lightly, but it surprises people that they can participate in an activity like this completely outside the norm.”

Visitors come to Whistler for the outdoors. But for many, it’s more than that. After all, towering mountains and vast forests can be found around the world. It’s that scenery coupled with the idea of a quintessentially Canadian experience—whether that’s throwing an axe at a target while enjoying some locally brewed beers, skating on a frozen lake or trying your very first Caesar cocktail at aprés.

WHILE IN WHISTLER, CHECK OUT THESE CLASSIC CANADIAN ACTIVITIES: DOGSLEDDING, AXE THROWING, AND SNOWMOBILING—OR ENJOY SOME CANADIAN DELICACIES LIKE POUTINE AND CAESAR COCKTAILS. >>

EMBRACE THE CANADIAN ELEMENTS

One thing is certain: if you want to feel like an authentic Canuck you’re going to want to hop on a snowmobile Canadian Wilderness Adventures (CWA) offers snowmobile tours for all abilities into the untouched backcountry on Sproatt Mountain.

“People will experience a thrilling adventure in Whistler’s spectacular backcountry on forest trails with epic mountain views on a snowmobile tour,” says Kristal Taylor, director of sales and marketing at CWA. “We offer something for everyone.”

But the most “quintessentially Canadian” tour they offer? “That would be the Yukon Breakfast snowmobile tour,” she adds.

That popular tour winds its way via snowmobile up to the company’s log cabin on Sproatt Mountain. Riders will have a chance to enjoy a giant breakfast cooked on an oldfashioned wood stove before heading

TOP: ICE SKATING ON A FROZEN LAKE IS A SPECIAL TREAT WHEN THE WEATHER TURNS COLD BEFORE MUCH SNOW FALLS.

BOTTOM: SNOWSHOEING IS A GREAT WHISTLER FAMILY ACTIVITY.

into the alpine for more adventure.

“The typical feedback we receive is that the tour was the most memorable part of [a guest’s] time in Whistler—or they want a snowmobile now,” Taylor says. “Our five-star Google and Trip Advisor reviews echo this sentiment.”

Other “Canadian” tours: snowshoeing, dog sledding, and—a newer adventure on the list—a snowshoe and sauna experience. Guests will have a chance to meander through the forest to a wood-fired barrel sauna.

“It is an amazing experience that combines a short snowshoe in an oldgrowth forest to get grounded and connect with nature with a rejuvenating session in one of our barrel saunas,” Taylor says.

Another Canadian experience visitors won’t want to miss is ice skating. Every year, the Resort Municipality of Whistler opens an outdoor ice skating rink in Whistler Olympic Plaza with views of the mountains under the Olympic rings.

TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE AWARDS TRIPADVISOR, 2025

ABOVE: A GAME OF PICK-UP HOCKEY IS A FAVOURITE CANADIAN WINTER PASTIME.

RIGHT: THE BEARFOOT BISTRO MAGIC OF MAPLE—A SUGAR SHACK DINING EXPERIENCE SHOULDN’T BE MISSED.

BELOW: BEAVERTAILS–FRIED DOUGH WITH

It’s set to open this year on Nov. 25 and run until late March, weather depending. (It’s also limited capacity and first-come, first-served.) Skaters are encouraged to bring their own skates, but there are rentals available as well.

If you’re really lucky, your visit to Whistler will coincide with ideal conditions for ice skating on one of the local lakes. (We’re talking below -10 C for several days and at least 10 cm of ice thickness.) There are five lakes in the Whistler valley.

Often a good Samaritan will shovel snow off the ice, but once in a while you get a rare phenomenon of frozen ice with no snow. It’s not hard to find a game of pick-up hockey once you’re there!

“When in doubt, head to the outdoor rink at Whistler Olympic Plaza or the indoor rink at Meadow Park instead,” the RMOW advises on its website.

EAT LIKE A CANUCK

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head back to the Village to try some Canadian delicacies. First up: BeaverTails. These fried dough snacks are topped with an array of sweet treats—everything from cinnamon and sugar to cookies and cheesecake spread.

They might have originated in the Ottawa Valley, but they’re certainly at home in Whistler Village.

If you’re more in the mood for a savoury snack, the obvious Canadiana pick is poutine. It’s a little overwhelming to wade into the debate about who makes the best poutine in town, but you can find some version of fries, gravy and cheese curd anywhere from Splitz Grill to Southside Diner. Afterwards, log onto Reddit to

weigh in on the perennial debate about who does it best—if you dare. Looking for an elevated, authentic Canadian culinary experience? You’ll have to wait until April, but by all accounts, you’ll be glad you did. Bearfoot Bistro is bringing back the third installment of The Magic of Maple—A Sugar Shack Dining Experience, in spring 2026.

First launched in 2024, the immersive experience draws inspiration from Quebec’s mapleproducing regions.

“Historically, sugar shacks served as gathering places where families and friends would come together to harvest and transform the maple sap into syrup,” says Marc Des Rosiers, marketing and communications manager for Bearfoot. “Over time, the tradition evolved into a festive culinary experience featuring hearty dishes, traditional folk music, and generous use of maple syrup. With Canada producing more than 70 per cent of the world’s maple syrup supply, and true to the restaurant’s commitment to showcasing the finest Canadian ingredients and offering a take on Canadian cuisine, we opted to bring an authentic ‘sugar shack experience’ to Whistler for the first time by transforming the Bearfoot Bistro into a sugar shack.”

That means staff donning traditional plaid shirts, classic sugar-shack music, traditional decor and, of course, food inspired by maple syrup.

“Culinary director Dominic Fortin draws inspiration from his own fond memories of sugaring season, a tradition close to his heart,” Des Rosiers says. “His goal is to honour tradition while showcasing the versatility of maple syrup, an ingredient that Canada is worldfamous for and turning it into an experience.

“WE OPTED TO BRING AN AUTHENTIC ‘SUGAR SHACK EXPERIENCE’ TO WHISTLER FOR THE FIRST TIME BY TRANSFORMING THE BEARFOOT BISTRO INTO A SUGAR SHACK.” >>

“[The Bearfoot] team work[s] together to reimagine traditional sugar shack items by blending them with signature West Coast products.”

Offerings last year ranged from foie gras parfait with maple whisky glaze, quince, hazelnut, and brioche to harvest cassoulet, with spring vegetables, pickled cipollini, maple dressing, and maple miso black cod featuring maple water dashi, goma-ae, daikon, and bok choy—to name just a few menu items.

“Our new maple-inspired menu will feature some of the most iconic sugar shack menu items and some exciting new dishes made from the full range of maple products such as maple syrup, maple sugar, maple butter, maple vinegars, and maple water and, yes, maple taffies will be on the menu,” says Des Rosiers.

The bar team is also preparing some exclusive maple-influenced cocktails to pair with the menu.

While in Whistler you can drink like a Canuck too. Whistler is no stranger to the thriving craft beer movement that has taken the beer industry by storm. Taste test the local suds at Whistler Brewing and Coast Mountain Brewing in Function Junction. The beer is made on site and served cold. It’s also supplied to select restaurants and bars in town. The Brewhouse (or High Mountain Brewing) in the Village also brews in-house.

Food (as featured in our dining sections), fun in the majestic mountains, and braving the cold might be the cornerstones of a quintessential Canadian experience. But that’s not all Canada has to offer. Hopefully, meeting some moose-loving, eh-saying locals is also part of a well-rounded stay in the Great White North. After all, no authentic Canuck experience is complete without experiencing some of that fabled Canadian kindness.

ONE GREAT WAY TO EXPERIENCE A COMMUNITY IS TO TRY THEIR LOCAL BEERS, AND WHISTLER IS NO EXCEPTION. WHISTLER BREWING CO. HAS BEEN BREWING THEIR FRESH BEERS SINCE 1989. TOURS ARE AVAILABLE FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS.

Nestled amidst breathtaking mountain peaks, our award-winning resort offers an elevated alpine experience. Enjoy seamless ski-in, ski-out access to world-class skiing at Whistler Blackcomb.

Off the slopes, immerse yourself in the social heart of the mountain, rejuvenating at the mountainside spa, indulging in any of the five hotel restaurants, or exploring the vibrant pedestrian-only village.

MICHELIN #1 RESORT IN CANADA #11 RESORT IN THE WORLD

GREAT STRIDES

REFLECTING ON THE ICONIC AUDAIN ART MUSEUM AS IT REACHES ITS 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

STORY BY DAVID SONG

Aperson visiting Whistler for the first time might find their eyes drawn to a certain sleek and elegant rectilinear structure on Blackcomb Way. Tucked among trees in the heart of the Village, this building would not seem out of place in a James Bond film: quiet and understated, yet simultaneously bold and angular with a steeply-sloped roof and generous windows. Stilts elevate it a full storey above the Fitzsimmons Creek floodplain.

It is the Audain Art Museum, which may itself be considered artistic based on the merit of its Patkau architecture. Of course, the real bounty lies within: a treasure trove of paintings, drawings and more, highlighting the unique art of coastal British Columbia. >>

AUDAIN ART MUSEUM CHIEF CURATOR DR. CURTIS COLLINS WITH THE GOOD SWEEPER BY GEOFFREY FARMER, CREATED IN 2017–2025 FROM A 1939 THEATRE BACKDROP, FOAM, PLASTIC AND PIGMENT.

AUDAIN ART MUSEUM COLLECTION, PURCHASED WITH FUNDS FROM THE AUDAIN FOUNDATION.

Guests may proceed across a bridge from Blackcomb Way to a spectacular entry porch, where they can walk in—or choose to descend to the forest floor and continue on their way. In March 2026, the museum will celebrate its 10th anniversary. It opened its doors by way of a philanthropic gift from Michael Audain and Yoshiko Karasawa: the former remains on the institution’s Board of Trustees.

“[The 10th anniversary] offers us an opportunity to reflect on how our permanent collection of B.C. art has grown over a decade,” says the museum’s director and chief curator Dr. Curtis Collins.

“That extends from Michael and Yoshiko’s original donation of 225 pieces to now, just over 300 works. Similarly, we can reflect on how we’ve been able to position ourselves over that 10-year period as a leading visual arts institution in Canada.

“We’ve taken Michael and Yoshi’s very specific collecting taste…and expanded on that component of carving, painting and photography. We’ve made great strides in

ensuring there’s an equitable representation of male versus female artists. Similarly, we’ve added a number of younger artists to that original collection—by way of acquisition as well as donation. This bodes well for our visitors having a very broad appreciation of all those things that make up British Columbia’s cultural scene over the 250 years of works represented.”

‘FULL CONFIDENCE’

Evidence of the Audain’s prestige can be found in its recent major exhibit: Gathered Leaves. This showcase (which ran from June to October 2025) assembled rare art from canonical titans like Pablo Picasso, Edgar Degas and Wassily Kandinsky—some of whom have never been displayed in Whistler before.

These pieces are owned by the National Gallery of Canada (NGC), which only lends to eminent locations with appropriate security systems and climate controls.

“From the building’s beautiful aesthetics to its permanent collection, the Audain Art Museum quickly established itself as significant—and

thanks to a well-respected and experienced curation team, it was able to forge relationships with many of Canada’s most revered art museums,” says Maureen Douglas, executive director of Arts Whistler. “The Gathered Leaves exhibit is a great example of the trust that the Audain set out to earn, enabling it to host rare and important exhibits with the full confidence of national art institutions.”

When asked about other exhibits of import in the Audain’s history this past decade, Collins mentions a Jean Paul Riopelle collection, The Call of Northern Landscapes and Indigenous Cultures. Having graced Whistler in 2021, it was an expansive show that had Audain staff working with the Montreal Museum of Fine Art— Canada’s oldest art museum.

Collins and his team proved their prowess to assemble an in-house exhibit in 2019 when they set up Fresh Seeing—French Modernism and

DAVID BUZZARD

ABOVE: AUDAIN MUSEUM ANCHOR PIECE DANCE SCREEN BY JAMES HART. 15' X 12', RED CEDAR PANEL, ABALONE, MICA, ACRYLIC, WIRE, AND YEW WOOD.

the West Coast, an Emily Carr feature. The museum is home, after all, to an impressive collection of Carr’s works, spanning her entire artistic career. Three years later, the team came up with its first national touring exhibition known as Wolves: The Art of Dempsey Bob—which travelled to Kelowna, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal after its Sea to Sky debut.

Not to be overlooked in a discussion of Audain highlights is the Dance Screen, a free-standing cedar carving by James Hart, which anchors the museum’s original collection. It depicts many Haida First Nations beings and the key role of salmon within Haida culture, all the while harkening back to Edvard Munch’s iconic painting The Scream. In 2021, a large bronze sculpture also by Hart was installed outside the museum on Blackcomb Way.

GOOD NEIGHBOURS

In the last decade, the museum has become a key locale along Whistler’s Cultural Connector. Those who walk this scenic pathway may also encounter its other attractions: the Maury Young Arts Centre, the Lost Lake PassivHaus, the Whistler Public Library, the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and the Whistler Museum.

FAR LEFT: EMILY CARR, QUIET, C. 1942, OIL ON CANVAS. THE AUDAIN HAS AN IMPRESSIVE COLLECTION OF CARR’S WORKS.

LEFT: DEMPSEY BOB, WOLF AND WOMAN, C. 1997, ALDER WOOD. THE AUDAIN ASSEMBLED A NATIONAL TOUR OF BOB’S WORKS IN 2022.

ABOVE: STUDENTS INSPIRED BY MODERN PIECES IN ONE OF THE GALLERIES.

LEFT: RACEHORSES, C. 1895-1899, AN EDGAR DEGAS PIECE LOANED FROM THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF CANADA FOR THE GATHERED LEAVES EXHIBIT.

Various community-friendly activities can be found within the Audain’s walls, from regularly-scheduled yoga sessions and Art of the Cocktail classes to artist workshops and art therapy sessions for youth in need of a creative outlet. The museum has also partnered with Arts Whistler on projects with deep Whistler connections featuring local artists, such Chili Thom Experience, the Isobel MacLaurin retrospective exhibition and multiple Whistler Children’s Festivals. These events capture the cultural and artistic heartbeat of the local community.

A painting from Lil’wat artist Levi Nelson’s inaugural solo show, hosted by Arts Whistler, was also bought by the Audain and is now featured in its permanent collection.

“Arts Whistler loves having the Audain as our next-door neighbour and welcomes opportunities to work with the museum,” Douglas says. “The arrival of the Audain increased local awareness of visual art, which has helped foster greater interest in local visual artists as well. The Audain’s proximity to the Maury Young Arts Centre [just across the street] has also helped increase gallery visitation. As good neighbours, we support each other’s endeavours and help each other out with equipment loans and other assistance as needed.

She adds: “We hope that Arts Whistler’s fostering of artists will result in more local artists being embraced by the Audain Art Museum.”

For Collins, the feeling is mutual.

“Whistler has now become a cultural hub in British Columbia— and you can also ski,” he remarks with a chuckle. “Visitors from across Canada and around the world are having a very thick cultural experience that the Audain is part of. In a smaller way, we’re very responsive to the shoulder seasons in Whistler [those times between winter’s skiing and summer’s biking]. That’s when cultural institutions can play a major role in keeping visitors coming to this resort municipality.”

Check out more details on the Audain’s 10 year anniversary celebrations on page 36. Visit audainartmuseum.com for more information. W

THE AUDAIN ART MUSEUM BUILDING WAS DESIGNED BY VANCOUVER’S PATKAU ARCHITECTS, AND IS TUCKED AMONG TREES IN THE HEART OF THE VILLAGE. IT IS PART OF WHISTLER’S CULTURAL CONNECTOR.

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ARTS & CULTURE

BY ALISON TAYLOR

WHISTLER IS MORE THAN STRONGER, HIGHER, FASTER ON THE TRAILS AND SLOPES— IT’S A THRIVING COMMUNITY THAT ALSO CELEBRATES MOUNTAIN ART AND CULTURE

STANDING THE TEST OF TIME

It’s been called the “Sundance of the North” and “Canada’s coolest film festival” and “the little festival that could.” And now the Whistler Film Festival is marking its 25 year anniversary. Standing the test of time, the festival has been entertaining audiences, promoting talent, nurturing filmmakers and generally making its mark in the movie business for two and a half decades. Founded in 2001 by locals Shauna Hardy Mishaw and Kasi Lubin, the festival has become a mainstay in Whistler’s annual event line-up, showing more than 2,000 films in the last two and half decades. “The Whistler Film Festival has brought a different viewpoint to the arts and culture scene in Whistler and established itself as one of its signature events,” says Hardy Mishaw. And that’s saying something in a town like Whistler which boasts several top-notch events in its calendar.

It generates roughly $25 million annually in provincial GDP making it a significant contributor to the economic and cultural success of Whistler and the province. Attracting big name talent over the years like Norman Jewison, Donald Sutherland, Jason Priestly and Kim Cattrall, this event is a time to soak up all the magic of Hollywood North in Canada’s mountains. “It’s definitely a player on the festival circuit,” adds Hardy Mishaw. This year’s festival takes place from December 3-7. Check out whistlerfilmfestival. com for tickets and the line up.

MUSEUM MILESTONE

The past ten years have been a boon for arts and culture in Whistler, fuelled in part with the arrival of the spectacular Audain Art Museum in the heart of the Village. To mark the 10 year anniversary of the museum, there will be a series of events over the course of the next year. It begins this fall. From November to May, for the first time ever, all spaces in the museum will feature works from the museum’s permanent collection of B.C. art. It’s called From Sea to Sky: The Art of British Columbia, celebrating the collection’s evolution over the last decade. This includes more than 300 works of carving, painting and photography from artists spanning the mid-nineteenth century to today. In March there will be free admission for five days, from the 12th to the 16th. In addition to the annual gala in the spring as well as the artist dinner series in the late summer, the museum will be kicking off a development campaign with an eye to the next 10 years. “We have the biggest foundation fund of any museum or gallery in Canada,” says Curtis Collins, director and chief curator. “In order for us to continue to be successful, we have to engage our founders. We want to start a development campaign looking forward to the next 10 years.” Stay tuned to audainartmuseum.com for more updates on the 10th anniversary events over the course of 2026.

FASHION FORWARD

The stunning Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) features a new show this winter, highlighting fashion and accessory designers from Squamish and Lil’wat Nations along with guest artists from the Northwest Coast. Called Woven Pathways: Indigenous Fashion and Cultural Continuity, the show is a celebration of Indigenous artists, focusing on the interconnections between land, identity and cultural knowledge. Woven Pathways runs from Oct. 18 to April 5. It is one more reason to visit the SLCC and learn about the neighbouring First Nations history, community and culture. Check out slcc.ca for more information.

CHIEF CURATOR CURTIS COLLINS EXAMINES PIECES IN THE AUDAIN ART MUSEUM PERMANENT COLLECTION.

WHISTLER GALLERIES

AUDAIN ART MUSEUM

4350 Blackcomb Way

604-962-0413 audainartmuseum.com

ADELE CAMPBELL FINE ART GALLERY

In the Westin Resort & Spa

604-938-0887 adelecampbell.com

ART JUNCTION GALLERY & FRAME STUDIO

1068 Millar Creek Road, Function Junction

604-938-9000 artjunction.ca

MOUNTAIN GALLERIES AT THE FAIRMONT

ART OF WINTER

Local galleries throughout Whistler tend to reflect the art of our town and the seasons we celebrate: the beauty, power and adventure of deep winter snow, for example, the might and grace of the beautiful black bear, or the shimmer of a glacial lake. To kick off the winter season, one of Whistler’s longest standing art galleries, Adele Campbell Fine Art, which was established more than 30 years ago, will feature the Art of Winter exhibition featuring some of its most popular artists. Take artist Paul Paquette, with his paintings of skiers in deep powder. Or the inkjet vintage photo work of Sarah Martin with acrylic and graphite, a unique combination of past and present. Or Angela Morgan’s bright and colourful classic art of ski and hockey kids. There is art to tempt everyone with a common theme of winter. Adele Campbell Fine Art is located in the Westin Resort & Spa, close to the base of Whistler Mountain. Check out adelecampbell.com

In the Fairmont Chateau Whistler

604-935-1862 mountaingalleries.com

THE PLAZA GALLERIES

22-4314 Main Street

604-938-6233 plazagalleries.com

THE GALLERY AT MAURY YOUNG

ARTS CENTRE

4335 Blackcomb Way 604-935-8410 artswhistler.com

SQUAMISH LIL’WAT CULTURAL CENTRE

4584 Blackcomb Way 1-866-441-SLCC (7522) slcc.ca

WHISTLER CONTEMPORARY GALLERY

In the Hilton Resort

604-938-3001 (main) In the Four Seasons Resort

604-935-3999 whistlerart.com

ainting

CANADIAN FINE ART SINCE 1993

SARAH MARTIN, CHOOSING RUNS TO SHOW OFF THE FASHION, MIXED - INKJET VINTAGE PHOTO, ACRYLIC, GRAPHITE, 45 X 36 IN. FROM ADELE CAMPBELL FINE ART GALLERY.

COMING HOME

A CALIFORNIAN FAMILY OF FIVE MAKES THE MOVE NORTH TO BUILD THEIR DREAM HOME ON THE NICKLAUS NORTH GOLF COURSE

THE OPEN-CONCEPT LIVING–KITCHEN–DINING AREA FEATURES ULTRAHIGH CEILINGS, EXPANSIVE WINDOWS AND WARM WOOD FEATURES.

STORY BY LISE BOULLARD

PHOTOS BY KRISTEN MCGAUGHEY

LEFT: A STONE FIREPLACE AND PENDANT LIGHTS MAKE A STATEMENT IN THE LIVING ROOM.

ABOVE: LARGE WINDOWS PUT THE OUTDOORS ON DISPLAY IN THE DINING AREA.

RIGHT: A WALKIN PANTRY IS CONVENIENTLY TUCKED BEHIND THE CUSTOM KITCHEN.

When california residents Ardie and Laura Venes set out to build their dream home in Whistler after years vacationing in the area, they knew exactly who to call. “This was the fourth project we did with [Whistler homebuilder David Girard]. It started with something really small and then got bigger and bigger up to this custom home,” Ardie says.

Having this previous experience working with Girard and his team at Peak Ventures, along with the expertise of local architect Brent Murdoch, made the process for building this 3,500-square-foot, two-level, five-bedroom, four-anda-half-bathroom home incredibly smooth. “The interior design was influenced by a [townhouse] that we had done with Laura and Ardie. And so a lot of the design elements we pulled into this project as well, which made it a little bit more seamless,” says Girard. Namely the earth tones and synergy between outdoors and in.

TOP: STONE WALLS ADD A TOUCH OF CHALET CHIC TO THE ENTRY ROOM.

ABOVE: CUSTOM-MADE FURNITURE AND CF INTERIORS PIECES CREATE A COZY FAMILY ROOM.

RIGHT: A LARGE CONTEMPORARY FIREPLACE IS THE FOCAL POINT IN THE MASTER BEDROOM.

When asked whether the Venes family was inspired by Californian architecture or European design when envisioning their dream house—Ardie grew up in the Netherlands before living in California for 25 years—the answer is a resounding no. After living in a sleek, white and glass home in California, the Veneses were craving something more cozy. “I didn’t want a contemporary, modern home [and] I wanted to live in harmony with the outside,” Laura says.

Lifestyle needs for their family of five—the Veneses have three daughters with whom they enjoy crafting, baking, and watching movies—also factored into the design and layout, not to mention their decision to make the permanent move to Whistler. “We thought Whistler was a great place to feel like we were part of a community, and a great place for the kids to start school and make friends,” Laura explains.

With its open-concept kitchen-living-dining area, ultra-high ceilings, unique finishings—cue the wood-lookalike bathroom backsplash tiles— and windows at every turn, the home does have some contemporary elements. But the more traditional features: oak wood flooring, stone statement walls and fireplace, and wood ceiling beams add some comfort and tradition, creating a style Girard calls Mountain Contemporary. Custom-made furniture and CF Interiors pieces add another layer of warmth. “It’s a family home, where a family lives and makes memories. It’s messy but cleans up,” Laura says.

In advising the Veneses on rooms and features to include, Girard drew on his years of experience witnessing families evolve within their spaces — specifically in recommending the addition of a dedicated family room with a pocket door. “What we see now is that it really works to have that separation. As kids grow up they want more privacy and more opportunities to hang with their friends, and we have found that that has been the case with our children too,” Girard says. The team also opted to include an elevator to be ready for any future mobility issues, a dedicated guestroom for family visiting from Europe or the U.S., and a fitness room for the family’s Peloton.

Situated on the Nicklaus North Golf Course in Cypress Place, this residence occupies one of two double lots overlooking a nature preserve. Its location offers exclusivity and privacy, convenient access to the Valley Trail, and many wildlife viewing opportunities. “We traded rattlesnakes for bears,” Laura says with a laugh.

LEADERS IN STRUCTURAL & ARCHITECTURAL STEEL WITHIN THE SEA TO SKY CORRIDOR & BEYOND FOR 35+ YEARS.

LEADERS IN STRUCTURAL & ARCHITECTURAL STEEL WITHIN THE SEA TO CORRIDOR & BEYOND 35+ >>

Nature-lovers themselves who enjoy hiking, skiing, and biking, it was important for the Veneses that their forever home be connected to the surrounding forest and green spaces, and for them to be able to enjoy the outdoor areas in all four seasons. “I really wanted to highlight that and have lots of windows,” Laura explains. That also meant including a deck, covered patio, pond, and lawn on the main level, plus a deck and a hot tub on the second floor. “Being a landscape architect, Brent did a fantastic job incorporating those features into this design,” Girard says of Murdoch.

After living in a “hot” Californian home that was more than 20 years old, and was slow, ineffective, and expensive to cool, the Veneses were happy to create a residence that was both comfortable temperature-wise and energy efficient. After spring’s snow melt, Girard discovered geothermal wells on the property—so the Veneses decided to go all in, investing in solar panels and triple-pane glass to make the home fully net-zero. “[They] didn’t have to build a net zero home, but they made the decision to be environmentally sensitive and build to a very high efficiency standard … they chose to spend more money,” Girard says. “Our last hydro bill was $9.15,” Ardie says with a laugh.

The result: a timeless home the family will be able to comfortably enjoy for years to come. “It’s definitely a home that 10, 15, 20 years from now will still be relevant,” Laura explains.

The Veneses moved into the residence five days before Christmas 2024. When asked whether they still own a property in California or whether they would ever move back, it’s a “no” for them. “After experiencing four seasons, [I realize] my spirit is Pacific Northwestern,” Laura says. “So I am home—this feels like home.”

POPS OF COLOUR ADD FUN TO THE CHILDREN’S ROOMS WHILE STILL BLENDING IN WITH THE NATURAL COLOUR SCHEME OF THE REST OF THE HOME. W

PHOTO | KRISTEN MCGAUGHEY

PHOTO | MATT ANTHONY

PHOTO KRISTEN MCGAUGHEY

PHOTO MATT ANTHONY

COZY UP TO WINTER!

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE A SNOW-FILLED winter’s day skiing, snowboarding, or even wandering through Whistler Village to make you want to snuggle up by a crackling fire with a warm drink and good friends. Here we bring you an abundance of beautiful items you can find in our boutique shops that you can use while you’re here, or bring home to continue that cozy Whistler winter vibe!

WHISTLER WOODS CANDLE

Explore a forest path outside your lodge as woodsy notes of Western Red Cedar and Pacific Silver Fir weave a trail alongside Whistler Spruce and charred woods above a damp forest floor. This 100 per cent soy wax candle is a classic blend of woody pine and bright evergreen accented with cedar and a touch of eucalyptus.

Available at Ruby Tuesday $39.95

The Hannah cardigan is an elegant button-down knit that combines vintage heritage with modern flair. Featuring exposed buttons on the ribbed placket and a relaxed fit with a T-sleeve insert, this cardigan is effortlessly stylish and comfortable. Heavily inspired by a cardigan first introduced in 1978, its design has been lovingly brought back to the Dale universe, capturing the essence of timeless fashion with a nod to its origins. The Hannah is made from premium undyed lightweight wool, utilizing the natural colors of the animal fiber. This approach not only highlights the beauty of the wool in its most authentic form but also preserves its natural qualities by eliminating the dyeing process, resulting in a garment that is as natural as it is stylish.

Available at Amos & Andes

$475

DALE OF NORWAY HANNAH CARDIGAN

GATHERING LIGHT CARD DECK BY LAURA HARRIS

“I created this deck for creatives, dreamers and anyone craving a spark of inspiration. Like having a little retreat magic in your pocket, they are small companions designed to bring light, encouragement, and creative possibility into your days.”

– Laura Harris. The package contains a deck of 25 four-bysix inch cards, each with Laura Harris’ artwork and a creative prompt to spark inspiration in life and art. Packaged in a printed canvas pouch with a ribbon drawstring.

Available at Adele Campbell Fine Art

$38

OLANG ZAIDE WOMEN’S BOOT

Olang Boots are a must-have for winter adventures for men and women. The Zaide boot stands out with its feminine design and will keep you warm and dry with its waterproof membrane, shearling lining, and sturdy outsole with retractable OC System grips.

Available at KABN

$340

WHITE MINK DRAW SLOUCH HAT

Glam up your winter wardrobe with this ultra-versatile, handcrafted mink hat with a fox tassel. Feel cushioned comfort and toasty warmth from the soft fur lining and stretch netting, plus a draw opening that’s perfect for ponytailed locks! You’ll look and feel sensational!

Available at Snowflake

$295

SHOPPING AREAS

Whistler Village is the hub of activity at the base of the mountains. A pedestrian-only paradise, it offers over 200 stores, galleries, restaurants and bars.

Village North is centred around Whistler Marketplace, which offers a supermarket, liquor store and many fine shops and amenities.

Upper Village, situated at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, is another walking-only area with many wonderful stores, restaurants and galleries.

Nesters is just two minutes north of Whistler Village and offers a variety of shops and restaurants, with a liquor store, grocery store and restaurants.

Rainbow Plaza, a five-minute drive north of the Village, has a grocery store, liquor store, coffee shop, gas station and more.

Whistler Creekside, a five-minute drive south of the Village, is a shopping area near the base of Whistler Mountain.

Function Junction is just 10 minutes south of Whistler Village and offers hardware, organic groceries, breweries, bakeries and many more shops and services.

WHISTLER

UNISEX ODIN WINTER GLOVES

Helly Hansen designed its Odin gloves with insights from ski patrol teams to combine warmth, durability, and weather protection for all your winter adventures. These gloves are fully waterproof and breathable, so your hands stay dry in wet and snowy conditions. The reinforced overlays on areas that wear more quickly, such as the leather palm, enhance grip and durability, while 200g of PrimaLoft® Black Eco insulation provides exceptional warmth. A fleece lining adds comfort, and adjustable cuffs help to ensure a precise fit. Finished with an embossed Helly Hansen logo and HH® print, these gloves are perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or everyday cold-weather use.

Available at Helly Hansen

BONE & BLADE WALLET

Handcrafted in Pemberton from premium Italian vegetable-tanned leather and hand-stitched with durable linen thread, the Copper Dome Wallet is designed to hold folded cash and five to eight cards. This minimalist piece is perfect for those who want more than a simple card slip, but less than a traditional billfold. Bone & Blade creates skillfully crafted leather products designed for a lifetime of use. Each piece is thoughtfully made in a studio on an organic farm, combining timeless design, quality craftsmanship, and functionality. Available at Arthentic by Arts Whistler $160

PERFECT MOMENT FREESTYLE SUNGLASSES

The Freestyle Sunglasses feature a striking retro style with an oversized silhouette and sporty stripe accents. Made from high-quality Eastman Acetate Renew, they include improved grip on the nose and temples for comfortable wear throughout the day. Their UV400 polarized, scratch-resistant lenses minimize glare, delivering crisp vision in bright conditions. Combining durability with elegance, these sunglasses offer a timeless, refined accessory for every season.

Available at Abigail Lifestyle Boutique $415

Looks like a shirt. Performs like a jacket. Don't let the fun plaid pattern and snap

ANCHOR LINE SHIRT JACKET

‘FALL IN LOVE’ CANADIAN DIAMOND RING

Our iconic symbol of Canada—the maple leaf —is elegantly featured in this 14 karat Canadian white, yellow and rose 14k gold ring, set with ten natural Canadian round brilliantcut diamonds with 1.00 carat total weight. All Maple Leaf Diamonds are laser inscribed with a tracking number and come with a certificate of origin.

Available at Keir Fine Jewellery

$8,850

NOIR WOODS POURED CANDLE

A new ritual begins with this candle from Thymes. Designed for larger spaces and longer moments, the Noir Woods 3-Wick Candle fills your home with the grounding scent of smoky wood, fresh evergreen, and golden amber. The striking vessel was inspired by smoke and glowing light, adding beauty and elegance to any room.

Available at Whistler Kitchen Works

$60

1066 Millar Creek Rd, Function Junction

Whistler's Favourite Pizza North of the Village

NAKED RAKU CERAMIC PIECES

These primitively fired Raku ceramic mugs by Pemberton artist Kathleen Tennock are inspired by the riverbeds that wind through the Pemberton Valley. Each piece embodies a delicate dance between fire and clay, resulting in unique smoke patterns that resemble stone.

kathleentennock.com

Available from the Kathleen Tennock studio in Pemberton.

$48

LOOKING BACK

PAINTING BY DORIA MOODIE

Looking Back is the title of this bear that artist Doria Moodie observed in the Chilko Lake area in the interior of B.C. The female bear was meandering along the river looking for salmon, but also keeping on the lookout for other bears. Moodie hopes viewers can see some personality and intelligence in her gaze. Moodie is a Whistler artist who specializes in large grizzly portraits in acrylic. Believing we can co-exist with them, she hopes to promote respect for them instead of fear. 30" x 30"

Available at Mountain Galleries at the Fairmont

$3,600 >>

SONGS FROM OUR NATIONS

Songs From Our Nations Volume Three is a compilation CD of twelve traditional hand drum songs recorded by the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre Ambassadors. Building on the success of Songs From Our Nations Volume One and Two this project fosters Skwxwú7mesh Sníchim (Squamish language) and Ucwalmícwts (Lil’wat Language) reclamation efforts connecting nation members to language and culture and promoting healing through the celebration of song drumming and language use.

Available at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

$15

CANADIAN INSULATED SHIRT BY HOOKÉ

Made of 20 per cent wool heavyweight flannel and 80 per cent recycled polyester, with reinforced arm patches and handwarmer pockets, this shirt is the perfect cozywear for indoors and out! This Canadian brand is available for men and women.

Available at Camp Lifestyle + Coffee

$195

FINE CANADIAN CUISINE

TOP DINING ESTABLISHMENTS DRAW FROM CANADA’S FRESH FOOD BOUNTY

STORY BY WILL JOHNSON

PHOTOS BY DAVID BUZZARD

Whistler’s fine dining establishments have different approaches to celebrating Canadian cuisine. But, what makes a meal Canadian, exactly? When most people answer this question, they think of the clichés—poutine, Nanaimo bars, Tim Hortons, maybe bannock—but restaurants in the Sea to Sky corridor are reimagining our cultural identity and offering high-end cuisine that any Canadian, and foreigner, can appreciate. Whistler Magazine reached out to three fine dining establishments for their individual takes on Canadian cuisine. >>

WILD BLUE HARVESTS CANADIAN CLAMS

In Coast Salish, its name means “dig deep.” When harvesters shovel down to capture geoduck clams, which are also called Pacific giant clams, these extraordinary creatures will burrow deeper into the sand to evade predators. And once they’re brought to the surface they weigh in at two to three pounds, stretching out up to two feet long. You can find them all the way from Alaska to California, and nowhere else in the world.

That’s what makes them the perfect centrepiece for a vongole pasta at Wild Blue Restaurant & Bar, gleaming from atop a carefully twisted pile of linguini noodles and surrounded on all sides by steamed Manila clams. It’s a traditionally Italian dish with a Pacific Northwest twist.

“When we opened Wild Blue three years ago, I thought ‘I’ve always loved a good vongole’ so how can I make it my own without changing too much?” says chef partner Alex Chen. “How do I take something so iconic and make it our own? We had to look at our own backyard, at our coast and our ocean. And that’s when I came up with the idea of the geoduck clam. This is one of the most famous clams we export, and one of the most expensive in the world.”

The lightly poached and thinly sliced geoduck clam is draped on top of the pasta, along with specks of chili and drizzled olive oil, basil and garlic. “Pasta-wise you just want it to look tidy and inviting but not too fancy. We want to serve it to the customer in the optimal state because geoduck clam can be overcooked very easily. We still want it to be the iconic recognizable vongole pasta, but the question is how do we elevate it with Wild Blue DNA?” he says.

“This dish is very simple but simplicity is hard to achieve because everything has to be done just right.”

This dish is only one of the menu items that features locally sourced ingredients, giving each meal a Pacific Northwestern flair. Inspired by three coastal countries—Japan, France, and Italy—the team at Wild Blue ensures all its seafood is ethically sourced and Ocean Wise certified. It’s the local ingredients that make all the difference, adding a little taste of Canada to every meal.

“Not only are we busy selling food, we’re also providing a platform for our fish monger, for our forager to bring this beautiful product from the West Coast and for us to serve customers from around the world—that’s a very satisfying thing for us, to be the ambassador showcasing our skills and our beautiful Canadian product.” >>

WILD BLUE RESTAURANT VONGOLE PASTA IS TOPPED WITH THINLY SLICED GEODUCK CLAM.

FROM FARM TO TABLE

It helps when you can speak to the farmer directly.

At Araxi, Culinary Director James Walt speaks to the farmers who supply his ingredients on a regular basis as part of the company’s Farm to Table initiative. Taking inspiration from these conversations, Walt oversees a menu that is constantly evolving based on what’s available, what’s in season, and what’s freshest at the moment. That’s why you can never really predict what will be on the menu when you sit down to dinner there.

“We write our menus and change our menus according to what’s available, and we have very strong relationships with the farmers, where we both support each other. It’s a very symbiotic relationship,” explains Walt.

“We do change our menu often and it always reflects the season… It’s easier than most people think because we know what to plan for and when you eliminate too much choice, it helps you focus. We chose to do this to best represent this area.”

This emphasis on sourcing local ingredients from the Sea to Sky area makes Araxi’s offerings naturally Canadian at the core, while also incorporating elements from other cultures to reflect the diverse nature of the B.C. coast.

“Some of the dishes that best represent us also involve some of the diverse products from some of the other cultures around us. Using spices and accents help us represent the melting pot of the B.C. coast. Dishes like miso-marinated sablefish, slow-cooked Alberta beef cheeks, and wild salmon battera sushi are examples.”

This fits into the overall vision for Araxi.

“We wanted Araxi to be of ‘time and place’. The room has wood accents, lots of windows (where) you can see the environment, and the food is similar. We have a raw bar to showcase the ocean and the coast, we have a steak program to accent Alberta beef, and then all of the produce is local,” he says. “It starts with the product and then the high level of hospitality that Canadians are known for and a sense of pride in what we are representing.”

LEFT: MISO-MARINATED SABLEFISH FROM ARAXI. RIGHT: CULINARY DIRECTOR JAMES WALT WITH FRESH PEMBERTON PRODUCE.

Our award-winning dining venues are vibrant hubs of connection for those celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable culinary experience.

DINING

From leisurely breakfasts, to romantic dinners, and unforgettable après, every moment at Fairmont Chateau Whistler is an opportunity to create lasting memories. Discover the true spirit of Whistler hospitality and book your table today.

OUT OF QUEBEC, WITH LOVE

B.C, meet Quebec.

At Wildflower restaurant, located in the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, there’s a certain dish that draws from two geographically diverse locations: the Quebec foie gras mousse.

“It consists of foie gras from Quebec and wild blueberries and hazelnuts from British Columbia. It is very French, both with its ingredients and its execution. The French have had a huge cultural impact on our country and cuisine in general, and we are happy to showcase that in our restaurant,” says Fairmont Outlet Manager Carly Droy.

“Foie gras can be a tough sell for some people, but we’ve received a lot of positive feedback about the dish. They find it rich, decadent and luxurious. We get a lot of guests from around the world, and they always ask about our local specialities.”

Even the staff enjoy sharing the details of how it was created.

“Our servers get excited about selling this dish as they can go into detail about the local ingredients and explain to our guests how it is a local favourite,” Droy says.

The dish was invented by Chef de Cuisine Jonathan Brandt.

“He came across the blueberry port chutney while working at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. It was a recipe from another chef working in the Grapes wine bar (there). When trying to think of a good accompaniment to foie gras that was Canadian in origin he remembered this chutney and thought it would pair well.”

The hazelnuts on toasted brioche ultimately serve as a perfect accompaniment.

Once it hit the menu, it fit right into Wildflower’s multicultural offerings.

“As Canada is first and foremost a multicultural country, we draw inspiration from the cuisines of all the different cultures that live in Canada and especially British Columbia. This province has a vibrant culinary scene with so much diversity. We always pride ourselves on having a diverse menu that caters to all allergies, and preferences,” Droy says.

“We source as many local ingredients as we can from local farms such as North Arm and Rootdown, both in Pemberton. We are big on preservation techniques such as pickling, fermentation and also making chutneys to last through the winter. Our potatoes come from Pemberton Valley Farms as well. Every year we take all of our student worker exchange program students on a farm tour to show them where the food comes from. We also source fresh fruit from orchards in the Okanagan Valley and seafood from local fisheries. This ensures we have fresh, local products year round to showcase on our menu.”

This makes the Wildflower menu truly a slice of Canada.

“We feel that the Wildflower is a good representation for Canadian food as it draws influence from all the different cultures that call this country their home. The best part of being “quintessentially Canadian” is we aren’t confined to being a certain “type” of restaurant and the limitations that come with it. We’re not just French, Italian, Japanese or Indian. We can be all of it. This is the beauty of Canada.” W

TOP: THE QUEBEC FOIE GRAS MOUSSE WITH WILD B.C. BLUEBERRIES AND HAZELNUTS.

ABOVE: WILDFLOWER RESTAURANT AT THE FAIRMONT CHATEAU WHISTLER CHEF DE CUISINE

JONATHAN BRANDT.

MOUNTAIN ROOTS

BUY LOCAL, BUILD COMMUNITY

The Sea to Sky region is full of talented artists and entrepreneurs making their mark in the world, drawing inspiration from the mountains. Here are a few noteworthy people putting down roots.

—Bronwyn Preece

INSPIRED BY NATURE

mana jewelry designs ’ pieces are “so light you barely notice them—but everyone else will,” declares Pembertonbased designer Nicole Beck. And she’s right. The stylish, versatile, and ecologically responsible line of earrings and necklaces are made from Cascadia-sourced hardwoods and sustainably harvested bamboo, affixed with high-quality sterling silver and 14kt gold-filled metals. The wood is kiln-dried and finished by hand, “with the help of a laser cutter, a lot of sanding, and hand painting.” Defined by simplicity and clean lines and shapes, Beck’s designs reflect a background in graphic design. She describes her entry into the world of jewelry-making: “While spending part of the year in Maui, a friend who makes high-end ukuleles let me experiment with his wood offcuts. It all began with a hand saw and Dremel, and I was hooked before I even realized it.” Drawing inspiration from “nature, geometry and sketchbook doodles”, Mana Jewelry Designs can be found at Ruby Tuesday and Art Whistler’s Arthentic boutique or purchased online. manadesigns.ca

SWEET SHOT

outdoor adventure photographer gregory lum ’s imaginative and captivating style is achieved, in part, from his insider-out approach: “Bringing my camera on an adventure and taking part in the action myself promotes authenticity and the capturing of genuine moments.” The Squamish-based, Coast Mountain-born adventurer prides himself on capturing his work “through human-powered means.” Lum aims to highlight examples of healthy relationships between people and the great outdoors. Lum is “launching an exciting project starting this winter documenting the sentimental relationship between outdoor enthusiasts and their gear.” The award-winning creative’s lens is geared towards a variety of angles, ranging from commercial product photography (shooting images for Marmot, Osprey and Buff, among others) to interior coverage offerings: enlivening spaces—from hotels to restaurants, homes to campgrounds—with his engaging, bold and dazzling imagery. For prints or more information check out his work at gregorylum.com

PUCKER UP

born out of winter necessity, the locally-based whistler’s lips began developing an antidote to the alpine onslaught and of chilly, dry weather with its line of balms to protect peoples’ puckers. With 13 different flavours, the organic, vegan, cruelty-free and non-GMO balms are each named with a unique Whistler spin-off: from Cheakamus Chocolate to Blackcomb BubbleGum, Lost Lake Lemon to Spearhead Strawberry. Maiko Kida founded the company in 2014. “What began as a small, local business… has now grown to be carried across Canada.” Ethically premised, Whistler’s Lips proudly uses biodegradable Eco Smart® Containers for packaging. Whistler’s Lips can be found in a variety of grocery and retail stores in Whistler. whistlerslips.com

TUNE UP!

csm whistler is an established and specialized local company where the ‘CSM’ stands for Custom Ski Maintenance or Custom Snowboard Maintenance. “There’s a fundamental difference between tuning a ski and tuning a snowboard, and we specialize in both,” explains owner Nathan Therriault. Based in Function Junction, the business— which began as a one-man show offering hand-sharpening and hot wax services—has grown to a multi-employee shop with “six of the world's best manual tuning machines.”

“Our goal is to make your equipment as predictable and reliable as possible. We also provide honest service recommendations that extend your equipment’s life while remaining cost-effective.” csmwhistler.com

BURGER KINGDOM

WHISTLER’S BEST BURGERS AREN’T JUST EXCELLENT—THEY’RE 100 PER CENT CANADIAN

The hamburger is the pop icon of American food.

While the burger’s murky origins can be traced to Europe—its name likely references ground beef sold in Hamburg, Germany—it was the United States and its rapidly expanding fast-food industry that made the burger the international phenomenon it is today. >>

STORY BY BRANDON BARRETT

PHOTOS BY DAVID BUZZARD

NICKLAUS NORTH TABLE 19 RESTAURANT

SERVER EMMA HORN WITH THE DECADENT

SIGNATURE T-19 BURGER MADE WITH ALBERTA BEEF, BACON AND ONION JAM, AND CANADIAN CHEDDAR.

ABOVE: THE LAKESIDE BURGER FROM THE DEN AT NITA LAKE

LODGE—A “BIG, DIRTY BURGER”— IS LOADED WITH A CHANTERELLE AND PANCETTA RAGOUT AND TALEGGIO CHEESE.

RIGHT: C0-OWNER

KAREN ROLAND WITH THE ROLAND’S BURGER

— A CLASSIC WITH ALBERTA BEEF AND THEIR HOUSEMADE MAYO.

Like any dish that has gone global, the burger counts a plethora of regional variations and specialties, and Canada is no exception. The Banquet Burger, a fire-grilled patty with bacon, grilled onions, mushrooms and cheddar, is a classic topping combination that was first cooked up in Toronto. The Works, a multimillion-dollar chain that began in Ottawa, introduced such out-there toppings as tortilla chips and peanut butter to burger fandom. Heck, peameal bacon (also known as back bacon, or Canadian bacon), the most quintessentially Canadian form of pork there is, could make up a category of Canuck burger variations all on its own.

Even in Whistler, where millions of visitors from all corners of the globe come to eat, drink and be merry, some of the best burgers are entirely and unapologetically Canadian. And why not? With topgrade beef found in abundance in B.C. and Alberta, and some of the most productive, fertile soil down the road in Pemberton, local chefs have no excuse when it comes to crafting burgers representing the Great White North.

While there’s no shortage of incredible burgers of nearly every style imaginable to be had in Whistler, we scoured the resort’s restaurants, pubs and diners for our favourite quintessentially Canadian burgers. So, bibs on and elbows up!

THE LAKESIDE BURGER | THE DEN AT NITA LAKE LODGE

Darren Brown knows the best burgers shouldn’t just come with a side of fries—but extra napkins, too.

“We wanted it to be a big, dirty burger,” says Brown, food and beverage director at the Nita Lake Lodge, of the hotel’s signature Lakeside Burger.

Featuring a juicy, grassfed Angus beef patty from B.C.’s 63 Acres Beef, topped with chipotle honey, a chanterelle and pancetta ragout, smoked aioli, and a slice of taleggio cheese, the Lakeside Burger is a veritable feast for the senses, a gooey, smoky, sweet and savoury mixture of flavours and textures served on a brioche bun dusted with everything bagel spices.

There’s a lot going on with this burger, but there is a method to its maximalist madness. From the caramelized crust of the patty fired in a 600-degree charbroiler to the subtly spicy-sweet, Pemberton-sourced Mountain Bee honey, every detail has been considered, every ingredient playing off the others.

“The honey has the sweetness along with the savoury smokiness of the onions and patty, before it all hinges on the rich and luxurious taleggio cheese,” Brown explains.

Staying local is a point of pride for Brown and the Nita Lake Lodge dining team, and not solely because of the abundance of quality ingredients available in Whistler’s backyard.

“It’s largely about supporting our local producers. They can’t do the right thing if we can’t go the extra mile and use them,” says Brown. “Your environment somewhat dictates what you should be eating when, and if we stay true to our local producers, it helps keep things naturally in tune with how they should be.”

ROLAND’S BURGER | ROLAND’S CREEKSIDE PUB

Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name— even better if there’s a stellar burger on the menu.

Roland’s Creekside Pub is about as local a haunt as there is in Whistler. Nestled into Whistler’s original ski village, Creekside, away from the spotlight of the main Village, Roland’s has long prided itself on catering first and foremost to the local crowd. That means the darts are always flying, the prices are affordable, and the laidback vibes are real.

Regularly voted as Whistler’s favourite bar, the formula to Roland’s success isn’t rocket science. What it does, it does extremely well, and that also applies to its no-frills menu of pub favourites. Of course, no self-respecting bar can lay claim to being the town’s favourite without a quality burger in the mix, and Roland’s is so confident in its signature two-hander that it’s named after the place. The Roland’s Burger is as simple as it is delicious: a seven-ounce Sterling Silver Alberta beef patty on a brioche bun, topped with lettuce, tomato, red onion and Roland’s mayo.

For co-owner Karen Roland, simplicity is the key to any great burger.

“It’s all about fresh ingredients done well,” she says. “We make our beef patties ourselves from really good ground beef, a little bit of salt and pepper, and that’s it. You want to taste the beef; that’s why you order the burger.”

What really brings Roland’s Burger home is the house-made mayo, which, like many burger sauces before it, is a recipe best kept secret.

“It’s a little bit spicy,” she reveals. “There are some extra ingredients there; it’s not just straight up mayo. It’s kind of a secret.”

OPEN LATE

THE CANUCK BURGER | ALPINE CAFE

No talk of Whistler’s best Canadian burgers would be complete without mention of the grandaddy of them all, Alpine Cafe’s Canuck Burger.

This aptly named burger is, like the countrymen who bear its name, is unassuming, unpretentious and reliable. Its all-beef patty is topped with sharp cheddar, the classic lettuce, tomato, onion and pickle combo, a remoulade that Chef Curtis Cram describes as a “faux Big Mac sauce,” and a slice of thick-cut, Canadian-ified maple-smoked bacon, all served on a potato scallion bun.

“I would say it’s our best-selling burger by far,” Cram says.

Known for its menu of homemade, rib-sticking burgers and pastas, Alpine Cafe is like a warm embrace on a subzero day. It’s familiar, it’s comforting, and it’s oh-so-very Whistler. Located in Alpine Meadows, a neighbourhood that has maintained much of the ’60s-era rustic charm and local feel from the community’s earliest days as a ski resort, Alpine Cafe still serves as long-time locals’ go-to for a filling bite or frosty beer without having to venture to the Village.

“It’s more of a laidback easygoing vibe here—a local crowd,” says Cram.

Long-awaited renovations in late 2023 expanded the interior seating capacity, while maintaining the cafe’s much-adored patio space in the summer, ensuring you no longer have to wait in line for a coveted table even in the dead of winter.

“The business has been up since the renovation,” Cram says. “It’s been great. We have the music nights here that always draw a crowd and it’s always a good atmosphere. It’s definitely been good for us.”

ALPINE CAFE MANAGER JULIE-ANNE ROY WITH THE CANUCK BURGER, FEATURING MAPLE-SMOKED BACON AND HOUSE-MADE REMOULADE.

Legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus isn’t known to settle for second best. At the renowned award-winning Whistler golf course that bears his name and design, you can be sure the signature burger served out of the clubhouse lives up to The Golden Bear’s exalted standards.

The T19 Burger, named after the course’s clubhouse restaurant, Table Nineteen, manages the rare feat of satisfying both famished golfers looking for a filling, flavourful burger after a round of 18, and fine-dining aficionados seeking a gourmet burger made from elevated ingredients. And the good news is: it’s open year-round; hungry skiers and snowboarders can also experience the T19 Burger.

The T19 features a chuck patty made from fresh Alberta beef topped with a bacon and onion jam, burger sauce, white cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onion and pickles on a sesame seed bun. Executive Chef Philipp Werner sources as much as possible locally, like the produce he gets from Pemberton’s Rootdown Organic Farm.

“It’s an all-around Canadian burger,” he says, adding that the T19 has another subtle touch of Canadiana: the onions used in the bacon jam are first soaked in maple syrup.

As for the elusive burger sauce, Werner said it’s his sous-chef’s recipe, which is mayonnaise-based and includes ground pickle, onion, and spices. He was also quick to point out that the sesame bun is the perfect vehicle.

“That’s the most important ingredient: a good bun. It’s nice and fluffy. We toast it on our flat top with butter, which gives it a really nice flavour and crispiness,” he says. “Then it’s all about putting the right components together to make a great experience.” W

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

THROUGHOUT THE WINTER

WOVEN PATHWAYS

A fashion and cultural journey at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre from October 18 to April 5. slcc.ca

KOKANEE VALLEY RACE SERIES

Racers are quick out of the gates every Thursday throughout the season in this weekly amateur race event.

whistlerblackcomb.com

SNOW PLAY ZONE AT WHISTLER OLYMPIC PLAZA

The family-friendly fun zone, located beside the outdoor skating rink, is a hive of winter play activity. Open daily into March. whistler.ca

NOVEMBER

NOV. 21

Official opening day for Whistler Blackcomb

This winter marks its 60th anniversary. whistlerblackcomb.com

NOV. 21 – DEC. 31

Art of Winter

An exhibition celebrating the season at Adele Campbell Fine Art at the Westin Resort & Spa. adelecampbell.com

NOV. 27 – 29

Winterlight

Whistler Olympic Plaza transforms into a winter wonderland with light installations, a live DJ, immersive activities and a ferris wheel. whistler.ca/events/whistlerwinterlight/

NOV. 29 – 30

Arts Whistler Holiday Market

Get ready for the holidays at this market, featuring unique handmade gifts from ceramics and jewelry to food and clothes. At the Westin Resort & Spa. artswhistler.com/holiday-market

DECEMBER

DEC. 3-7

Whistler Film Festival

“Canada’s Coolest Film Festival” celebrates 25 years with another stellar line up of film premieres and industry events. Check out whistlerfilmfestival.com

DECEMBER (CON’T)

DEC. 6-7

SEEK Bespoke Market

A curated shopping experience with more than 35 entrepreneurs and designers. Admission grants access to the market and the Audain Art Museum. $10. audainartmuseum.com

DEC. 10

Holiday Singapalooza with Barbed Choir

At Maury Young Arts Centre artswhistler.com

DEC. 12

DECEMBER (CON’T)

DEC. 19

Dress Like Santa

Don your red suit and hit the slopes at Whistler Blackcomb. The first 100 people in line dressed as Santa or Mrs. Claus get a free lift ticket. whistlerblackcomb.com

JANUARY

JAN. 24

Candlelight Concert

Featuring Queen vs. ABBA

At Maury Young Arts Centre, 8:30-9:30 pm artswhistler.com

JANUARY (CON’T)

JAN. 26

Australia Day

The Aussies of Whistler celebrate their national holiday in style. Be prepared to see a lot of green and gold around town.

FEBRUARY

FEB. 17

B.C. Family Day

FEB. 27-28

Peak to Valley Race

Celebrating 40 years, the Peak to Valley is the longest GS race of its kind. Whistler Mountain. whistlerblackcomb.com

MARCH

MAR. 12-16

AAM Free Admission

Free admission to the Audain Art Museum to celebrate the 10-year anniversary. audainartmuseum.com

MAR. 14-16

BC Luge Championships

Check out the speed of these athletes at the Whistler Sliding Centre. luge.ca

MARCH

(CON’T)

MAR. 19-23

Manabu Ikede Open Studio

Check out the work of renowned artist Manabu Ikeda at his open studio at the Audain Art Museum. Included in the cost of admission. audainartmuseum.com

MAR. 28

Showcase Showdown

Canada’s longest running snowboard competition takes centre stage at Whistler Blackcomb. whistlerblackcomb.com

APRIL

APR. 7-13

World Ski and Snowboard Festival

Celebrate the sport, art, culture and skiing and snowboarding at Whistler’s annual end of season multi-day celebration. Check out wssf.com for the full line up of events.