Off-Season Or On- The Westin Whistler Is A Slice Of Scenic Paradise

 From the spacious lobby to each of the 419 suites, the Westin Whistler has the relaxed feel of a cozy winter ski chalet – just a more stylish, luxurious version. The large fireplace in the contemporary lobby is just one of many (you'll find fireplaces in all of the suites), natural wooden cabinetry in the rooms and spectacular views of Rainbow Mountain or the woodlands outside make it easy to imagine coming back after a long day of skiing or snowboarding to unwind – no matter that it was a humid weekend in August when I stayed there. You can see why the Westin is a prime winter destination and also why Whistler-Blackcomb was named “Best Overall Ski Resort in North America” by Condé Nast Traveler magazine.

The penthouse suite at the Westin Whistler

That's not to say that summertime visitors are out of luck – you'll join a mix of avid mountain bikers, international travelers and locals who flock to the various resorts, restaurants and shops in Whistler Village in the warmer months. Guests definitely won't miss out by coming to the Westin in the off-season: the hotel has giant glass windows that let summer sunshine pour in, patios outside the restaurant and lounge, and a beautiful outdoor rooftop pool.

The Westin Whistler was built on the very last remaining mountainside site in Whistler Village, which means you're only a short distance from the ski lifts for the world-renowned Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. The hotel provides guests with heated ski boots and valet ski service, so don't even think about having to lug your gear to the base of the hill.

Each of the hotel suites has a kitchenette, soaker tub and a breathtaking view of the Whistler scenery. If you're feeling decadent or visiting Whistler with a larger group, you could always rent the Penthouse Mountain Suite: surrounded by glass, it's a sprawling, two level suite that includes a full kitchen, three baths, a dining room and a den.

The hotel also has indoor pool facilities, which are far less aesthetically pleasing than those on the rooftop, but in the winter months you'll be out of the cold when you step into the bubbling hot tub and eucalyptus steam rooms. The Avello Spa and Health Club is just around the corner from these amenities, so after a day of hitting the slopes you can have your stresses massaged away or treat windburn with an H2O Lifting Facial.

On a greener note, the hotel has gone the eco-friendlier route many businesses are taking to leave less of a footprint: the Westin Whistler has implemented initiatives like energy efficient lighting, low flow toilets, sinks and showers, and programs for recycling and composting waste. See www.westinwhistler.com for all resort information, availability and reservations.

-By Erin Stringer- Associate Editor, VANCOUVER.com

The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler, is located at 4090 Whistler Way, Whistler, BC. You Can make reservations through the hotel's website or by calling (604) 905-5000. Other amenities in the hotel include 17,000 feet of meeting space, a variety of shops, a glass-enclosed exercise room, and the award-winning Aubergine Grill and the FireRock Lounge.