Walk into the spacious lobby with its majestic vaulted ceiling and you can see why the Chateau Whistler was once the luxury destination in Whistler. It feels like an elegant lodge out of a 1960s James Bond film set in the European Alps (even if it only dates to 1989). Head back to the Mallard Bar and you’ll see posh visitors and relaxed locals sipping cocktails and sampling appetizers by the fire. Step out onto the Mallard Terrace and order yourself a hot chocolate – or hot buttered rum – and take in the view of Blackcomb Mountain as you warm up by one of the blazing fire pits.

Located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, the Chateau is in a prime ski-in/ski-out location. The Upper Village has just enough restaurants and shops to take care of any last-minute needs, but none of the bustle of the main Whistler Village. If you do want to get to Whistler Village, a scenic walk through the forest will get you there in no time. Besides the Mallard Bar, the Fairmont has three other restaurants, high-end clothing stores and an art gallery.

The only downside to the Fairmont is that its guestrooms are in need of a facelift (the dowdy décor is a bit worn.) Until that happens, the Four Seasons will hold onto the title of most luxurious Whistler resort.

Considered one of the top resorts in Canada, the Four Seasons has almost everything you’d want in a ski hotel.

The Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside is the most centrally-located hotel in town. Walk out your front door and you can choose between gondolas to Blackcomb Mountain and Whistler Mountain, or you can stroll to the best shops and restaurants, all from two to ten minutes away. In fact, in the same building you’ll find ski rentals, ski shops and the Dubh Linn Gate Pub, an excellent après ski destination.

From the heated outdoor pool or hot tubs above Skier’s Plaza you can gaze onto Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Guestrooms come with kitchens and in-room fireplaces, although some rooms are very cozy quarters and the décor is a bit utilitarian.

The Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre is not a ski-in/ski-out option but is, as the name suggests, very centrally located. You can walk to shops, a movie theatre, two grocery stores and several bars and restaurants in no time.

Rooms come with kitchens and fireplaces, but they are more luxurious and spacious than at their Mountainside counterpart. You’ll also find an outdoor pool and hot tub here. If you want to rush out early to catch some fresh powder, a complementary continental breakfast is available downstairs. Also, you can keep your skis at the Pan Pacific Mountainside location. However, note that each room only gets one ski locker, so if you are a big family you may need to check your skis with the valet.