The winter and summer resort of Whistler, Canada is reached by fling into either Seattle, Washington then driving or taking a shuttle to the resort. This trip takes between 4 1/2 to 5 hours, depending on how long it takes to cross the border. Alternatively one can fly into Vancouver Canada and then drive or shuttle to Whistler. This is a magnificent 1 1/2 to 2 hour drive up Horeshoe Bay. Don't rush this drive. There is lots to see and even islands to explore, if you're inclined.
Located in the heart of Whistler Village North, Summit Lodge is an intimate property with the amenities of a first class hotel. The Hotel is in the middle of the shopping and restaurant district -- very convenient -- and within a 10 minute stroll to the ski lifts at both Whistler and Blackcomb. This provides guests easy access to skiing, snow boarding and a multitude of other winter activities. There is so much to do and the town so fun that one could easily spend a week or two during both the winter or summer and never lack for diversions.
The lobby has a distinctive interior design with an Asian feel. There is a large stone fireplace warming up room, and the inviting scent of Aromatherapy candles lighting the front desk. Lodge amenities include: 24-Hour reception, concierge, bell service, safety deposit boxes, common laundry services, laundry and dry cleaning service, conference facilities, ski lockers, ski room and ski valet -- we love these because they help keep the rooms clean and uncluttered-- heated outdoor pool, outdoor hot tub and sauna.
Each of Summit Lodge's 81 comfortably-appointed deluxe or executive studios and one-bedroom suites are equipped with a kitchenette, microwave, cook top, pots, pans and utensils. Each room has a stocked honor bar, Starbucks coffee and Tazo tea. Once could easily prepare breakfasts and bag lunches and eat dinner at the comfortable dining table with take-out food from a local restaurant, while watching television.
The rooms have comfortable beds, custom cherry furniture, tasteful artwork, balcony, gas log fireplace, air-conditioner, plush terry cloth bathrobes and Escents Aromatherapy bath amenities. Perfect for soaking away sore muscles after a day in the mountains. If you prefer your after-ski soak outside, there is a large heated pool and spa. Grab a beverage and join your neighbors for a warm-up.
If you are not a winter-sports fan, the hotel maintains a small fitness center, with sauna, adjacent to the pool area. There are also loads of activities and during the summer there is golf, boating, fishing and anything else you might want to do in the mountains.
Half the fun of this area is wandering Whistler Village. Near the hotel you'll find wonderful art galleries, clothing stores, import shops, craft stores, jewelry, loads of sporting goods and sporting apparel shops and a wide variety of restaurants. There is something for every budget including several well-stocked markets and pharmacies.
We enjoyed surprisingly authentic Indian food from the Tandori Grill directly across the street from Summit Lodge. The Whistler Noodle House offered palatable Chinese food. You can eat-in or take-out for those who don't want to cook but prefer to have a meal in their condo. We found restaurants serving Greek food, hamburgers, pizza, steaks, sushi and Japanese, French and lots of fine dinning establishments. And, of course, there is no end to the bars, nightclubs and night life in this town. If you are looking for a hearty breakfast or lunch try Crepe Montagne directly across from the lodge. The crepes and pancakes are delicious and inexpensive.
Our favorite place to eat though, was a small gourmet shop Pain and Fromagio on the corner. When leaving the lodge turn left out the door and walk half a block. This shop sells magnificent breads, pastries, cheeses, sliced meats, pastas, olive oils and coffees of every imaginable type. You can take prepared food back to your room or sit by the window with a bowl of homemade soup and panini (italian sandwiches with different combinations of meats, cheeses and sauces.) Yum!
Convince your company that theor next business retreat needs to be at a ski resort. If you can do this, Summit Lodge has two meeting rooms with up to 1,300 square feet of space. The Fireside room features a large fireplace for extra ambiance. Nothing is better for team building than skiing and then drinks in the spa.
If you prefer not to drive yourself to the resort there is exceptionally inexpensive and convenient bus service to and from the airport. It drops you off and picks you up right outside Summit Lodge's lobby door. They'll help with the arrangements. And really, they've thought of everything.
Room rates start at $180 Canadian (about $100 US in 2002) and are a VERY good value. Call them at 1-888-913-8811 or visit their website at http://www.summitlodge.com/
