Winter is fast approaching and this year, it’s a good bet that Western Canada will be a popular holiday destination for ski enthusiasts! Between the impressive snow-capped peaks, the many ski slopes and the comforting atmosphere of the lodges nestled in the mountains, you will have the pleasure of discovering a local culture similar, but at the same time so different from that of Quebec. That said, the question remains the same, year after year… Which destination to choose: Banff or Whistler? Here you can give a picture of each destination and suggestions for staying. To your coats, ready, go because our partner Air Canada Vacations offers multiple tempting offers to hit the slopes in the Rockies!
Banff – a picturesque town in the mountains of Western Canada
Banff is one of the most popular destinations not only in the Rocky Mountains, but in Canada and for good reason: Banff National Park is the most visited and arguably the most photographed in the country! Walking the streets of the city, you will quickly fall in love with the mix of colors and textures offered by the Rockies, all around. With the magnificent mountains in the background, the local craft shops and the trails surrounding the turquoise lakes nearby, there’s no doubt that everyone will find something to look forward to!
Between your ski days, make room in your schedule to visit the surrounding area. The popular Louise and Moraine Lakes are only a few kilometres from Banff, as well as the beautiful Jonhston Canyon… not to mention the hot springs that await you to offer you a moment of well-deserved relaxation.
For your Banff getaway, choose the Fox Hotel and Suites – a charming 116-room hotel that offers both comfort and a full range of services. The spa inside the hotel simulates hot springs dug into the mountains and will surely amaze you. Opt for an Air Canada Vacations flight and hotel package and get great fares!
Whistler – a Western Canadian paradise so close to the city
The advantage of choosing Whistler is the opportunity to combine a ski and hiking trip with an urban getaway in the sublime city of Vancouver! Enjoy a fascinating setting of towering mountains and conifers, all within a two-hour drive of Vancouver’s eclectic urban area.
The more active will be delighted not only to be able to stretch their legs on the peaks surrounding the Whistler Blackcomb ski resort, and the most curious will be happy to discover the Olympic facilities that have been installed there. Vancouver hosted the Olympic Winter Games in 2010 and several facilities, including alpine skiing, bobsleigh and biathlon, were located in Whistler. What could be better than heading to Vancouver, a big, warm and vibrant city, to spend a few days there and discover the cosmopolitan life of British Columbia!
In Whistler, choose Fairmont Chateau Whistler as your base camp for your stay. A true castle nestled in the heart of nature, it will offer you all the comforts you dream of in a luxurious and enchanting setting. On the Vancouver side, our choice stops at the Georgian Court Hotel in the heart of the city. A perfect combination of chic and modern, which will certainly please you! Anyway, Air Canada Vacations flight and hotel packages are for you!
Don’t forget that your travel agency is there for you, even for your ski vacation with Air Canada Vacations! To develop an itinerary, give you information about the destination and assist you in all stages of your trip, your advisor is there for you. So now contact your travel professional to begin preparations for your Western Canadian getaway!