It’s that time of year again when the ski/snowboarding equipment is dusted off and delivered to powder-rich slopes the world over. Adrenaline fuelled thrill-seekers and families alike arrive at the mountain side in droves, carving fresh trails with abandon whilst staying warm with gallons of mulled wine. There are plenty of places to enjoy a white Christmas but few better than the vast, mountainous landscapes of Canada.
Famed for its fantastic winter resorts and offering plenty of space to explore, here are five of the best places to enjoy a fun-filled ski/snowboard holiday in Canada.
Silver Star, BC
The charming Silver Star village resembles a 19th century mining village, despite being built in the 1980s, and caters for snow lovers of all skill levels. With an excellent ski school for newbies, the ski-in/ski-out apartments provide superb access to the slopes. A natural ice lake provides a little ice skating and downhill tubing is also on offer for those who’d rather travel down hill whilst remaining seated.
Revelstoke, BC
For those preoccupied with powder, there’s no better place than Revelstoke with its 3000 acres of relatively unknown slopes. Boasting an average yearly snowfall of around 12m, the terrain is steep and full of challenges for the seasoned skier. A new resort offers excellent facilities and and Revelstoke town, a 5 minute drive away, has plenty of great restaurants.
Banff, AB
Banff is a great place for those looking to enjoy fantastic winter sports whilst on a budget. Tour operators offer great package deals and a range of free bus services mean you can get around without spending a dime. The town itself has a wealth of restaurants and bars which means you can always grab a bite to eat without spending the earth. The scenic views aren’t half bad either and, if you are travelling without a credit card, using a paysafecard will ensure you can still access the slopes and other facilities.
Whistler, BC
No list of Canadian winter resorts would be complete without a nod to the largest in North America. Whistler, comprised of the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, has something for everyone and is among the most popular destinations in the world. Fernie Town, located a few miles from the resort, is the place to go if you are looking for great bars and restaurants. You will also find a selection of we-serviced hotels here.
Panorama, BC
Panorama has plenty of family friendly facilities, including child care and a school for the little ones. Car-free for added safety, the resort also provides an outdoor pool complex, including saunas, so you can relax in style. Suitable for skiers and snowboarders of any experience, the 1220m mountain is among the biggest in North America and provides plenty of powder when the snow falls.