At a Glance
You’ll find energy and elegance at this grand hotel at the base of Blackcomb Mountain.
Review
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.
Written by Noelle Salmi