Fairmont Chateau Whistler - Hotel Review

British Columbia's Winter Wonderland

by Louis Charles & Kim Fay

The Chateau at the Base of Blackcomb Mountain

As one of the world's premier ski destinations (it was home to the 2010 Winter Olympic Games), Canada's Whistler Resort is perhaps best known for its 100+ marked runs and 17 miles of cross country ski trails. In fact, this beautiful outpost, just two hours from Vancouver, is a playground year-round. Melting snow may bring the ski season to a close, but it also means the onset of warm weather activities such as Saddle and Paddle river rafting, heli-hiking and guided fishing trips. Whether you come for sleigh rides and dog sledding or alpine hiking among spring wildflowers, The Fairmont Chateau Whistler is the perfect place to hang your hat (or show shoes or bathing suit) during your stay.

Built in 1989, the Chateau sits at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, just steps from the Blackcomb lifts and only five minutes from Whistler village. It has fused its contemporary architecture with the look of a traditional European ski chateau; and it has infused its interiors with a classic yet individual style. An artsy wooden seagull devouring a fish in the elegant, otherwise Italianate spa area is an example of the quirky, well chosen details placed throughout the property. The Great Hall is rustic without being kitschy, and the bedrooms, with accents like playful gingham fabrics and bouquets of artificial sunflowers, evoke French country living in a stylish, sophisticated way.

Gold King Bedroom

There are 550 guestrooms, ranging from standard (even these have lovely valley views) to the Fairmont Gold Penthouse Suite, which features 25-foot, floor-to-ceiling windows and French doors that open onto a viewing balcony. Mountain suites have juliette balconies, and all Fairmont Gold guestrooms and Penthouse Suites have gas-burning fireplaces. The Fairmont Gold accommodations also come with private check-in and out, concierge and lounge serving breakfast and post-ski appetizers.

Not surprisingly, the Chateau offers notable dining. With executive chef Vincent Stufano at the helm, each of the three venues has a full menu devoted to West Coast flavors, as well as its own trademark selections. The Wildflower, with the Wildflower Wine Room (250 vintages), offers an extensive selection of wines by the glass. The Mallard Lounge and Terrace is known for its two outdoor terraces, fully ventilated cigar lounge, afternoon tea and Sullivan's Best, a signature blend of Kahlua and Godet Chocolate Liqueur. Portobello serves country kitchen cuisine in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.

Gorgeous in Spring

When it comes to recreation, the Chateau is a true destination resort. The course at the Chateau Whistler Golf Club was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and encompasses creeks, ponds, ancient Douglas fir and dramatic granite rock faces. It's also home to the David Leadbetter Golf Academy. The Health Club has eucalyptus steam rooms, a heated lap pool with underwater music, two tennis courts and the latest workout equipment, and the Vida Wellness Spa specializes in Ayurvedic treatments. Additional facilities and services include a business center, meeting spaces, The Nanny Network Ltd. babysitting, bicycle and ski storage, and shops for skiwear, ski rental, gifts, flowers, sunglasses and designer clothes.