Alpine Luxe: Winter’s Arrival Marks The Start Of Whistler’s Magic Season

Steam rises from the outdoor pool at Four Seasons Resort & Residences Whistler as late afternoon light paints the mountains gold. This winter brings a fresh twist to the après-ski ritual – guests soak in the heated waters with glasses of Moët & Chandon, the result of a new partnership that adds a dash of French flair to this mountain setting.

The property has crafted a winter season that moves beyond standard ski resort offerings. A newly renovated space, The Library welcomes guests with leather armchairs and a carefully chosen selection of Macallan whiskies. From rare expressions to storied cocktails, the intimate space provides the perfect après-ski retreat when snow falls thick outside those tall windows.

Four Seasons has thought beyond the slopes. For the “Love is in the Air” experience, a helicopter lifts guests above ancient glaciers, touching down on a remote peak for hot chocolate with views that stretch forever. Each flight offers panoramic views of the Coast Mountains’ towering peaks and ancient ice fields before landing in pristine wilderness. Back at ground level, naturalist guides lead snowshoe tours through old-growth forest near Lost Lake, sharing stories of the area’s ecology and wildlife. —Mark Sissons

Winter traditions

The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre opens a window into local Indigenous life just minutes from the resort. Here, members of the Skwxwú7mesh and Lil’wat7úl Nations lead visitors through exhibits of hand-carved masks and woven blankets, sharing stories passed down through generations. Back at Four Seasons, the courtyard comes alive with its own traditions – kids gather around the fire pit to watch staff pour hot maple syrup onto packed snow, creating golden strands of taffy that taste like winter itself.

Wellness in the wild

The spa at the Four Seasons incorporates local elements into its winter treatments. The signature Diamond Radiance facial features Omorovicza’s Blue Diamond collection and a Knesko Diamond Radiance mask, combining marine collagen, hyaluronic acid, and vitamins to combat mountain conditions. Diamond peptides boost elasticity while targeting bright snow glare and harsh winter effects. Between treatments, the eucalyptus steam room and outdoor hot tubs offer views of skiers carving through fresh powder.

A taste of winter

At Four Seasons, SIDECUT restaurant offers a modern take on the mountain steakhouse, while Braidwood Tavern celebrates Pacific Northwest flavors. Throughout the day, seasonal treats appear – from morning hot chocolate at the Ski Concierge to warming refreshments in the lobby lounge.

Beyond the Upper Village, Whistler’s dining scene continues to evolve. In the heart of the village near the Conference Centre, Wild Blue Restaurant + Bar has quickly become one of Canada’s most talked-about new restaurants since its 2022 opening. Under award-winning Chef Alex Chen, previously recognized as Chef of the Year by Vancouver Magazine and victor at both Iron Chef Canada and Gold Medal Plates, this venue has earned the number two spot on enRoute Magazine’s Best New Restaurants list and climbed to #31 on Canada’s 100 Best list for 2024.

The space balances sophistication with mountain warmth – curved wooden walls and panoramic windows frame the peaks, while an open kitchen adds energy to the room. The menu marries coastal influences from Italy and France with local ingredients, emphasizing sustainable seafood and Pacific Northwest products. Seasonally available heated garden patios let guests dine outside while a private dining room hosts special events.

In Creekside, Mekong brings Thai tradition to the mountains under Chef Bonnie Khummuang and Executive Chef Angus An. The kitchen pairs regional ingredients – Salt Spring Island mussels and local seabass – with authentic Thai preparations. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook Alpha Lake, setting the scene for house-made roti, aromatic curries, and an unexpected finish: Thai tea crème brûlée.

Seasonal rhythms

As daylight fades, guests gather in the Four Seasons courtyard, where the scent of woodsmoke mingles with mountain air. Children discover the magic of maple syrup on snow while artisans guide wood-burning and stone-carving workshops, helping visitors create lasting memories from mountain materials.

Come late afternoon, the lobby fills with rosy-cheeked skiers, some still in their boots, others wrapped in the hotel’s thick bathrobes. They sink into chairs by the stone fireplace, trading stories of secret powder stashes and perfectly carved runs. Tomorrow’s plans take shape at the Ski Concierge desk – weather reports spread across the counter as staff mark up trail maps for guests.

Night arrives early in winter. By 5 pm, lights reflect off the snow outside those vast windows, and the lobby transforms into an impromptu living room. Someone orders a round of hot toddies. A family plays cards in the corner. The mountain day winds down, but Whistler’s particular magic – that blend of luxury and alpine adventure that Four Seasons does so well – is just warming up.

If you go

Getting there: It is a two-hour drive from Vancouver on the Sea-to-Sky Highway (winter tires are mandatory). The resort’s Upper Village location is quiet and offers easy village access via shuttle.

Stay smart: Request mountainview rooms. Book well ahead for peak season (December-February). Suite bookings often include added perks.

Must experience:

• Helicopter adventure with mountaintop landing
• Evening whisky tasting at The Library
• Poolside Moët & Chandon service Wild Blue Restaurant (reserve early)