In winter, Canada gets to showcase what it does best: epic whiteouts and icy cool slopes. Currently, all eyes may be on Whistler and Vancouver for the Winter Olympic Games but there are other resorts to try. You can join the Canadian club at any of the following — they’re all medal winners, whatever you ride.
Whistler
Two mountains, unlimited options. Whistler, British Columbia, is Canada’s largest and most versatile resort. You’ll find terrain here to suit everyone, from nervous beginners to rabid powder hounds. But you don’t have to hammer down the men’s slalom course, although 90 per cent of terrain will remain open during the Olympics (12-24 February). In fact, you don’t even have to ski. Come back in spring or summer and hit the bike trails, go whitewater rafting or just play a few rounds of golf. This is a four-season playground that merits repeat visits. whistlerblackcomb.com
Revelstoke
The other ace up British Columbia’s thermally insulated sleeve. The heli-belt between the Purcell and Selkirk Mountains is a treasure trove of untouched peaks and deep, deep powder. Revelstoke Mountain Resort grew out of a small heli-skiing operation and now features lift-accessible terrain, but the USP remains its in-house airborne division, Selkirk Tangiers. It’s far from the only heli-operation in the area — TLH, CMH and Mica Heliskiing are other reputable outfits. All guarantee fresh tracks and consummate bragging rights. revelstokemountainresort.com
Banff
Banff found fame as a summer retreat when the railway forged its way through the Rockies in the 19th Century and drew curious travellers to its natural hot springs. Today, it suits all comers, all year round. Skiers can choose from the local Mt Norquay or Sunshine Village, or take the 45-minute shuttle over to Lake Louise — you’ll never outski all three in a week. Banff itself is a proper mountain town as opposed to a purpose-built resort, as such it has something that can be elusive in North America — a bit of history. Stay at the imposing Banff Springs Hotel, built in the style of a Scottish baronial estate, for the full effect. banfflakelouise.com
Quebec City
Another historic gem, Quebec City recently celebrated its 400th anniversary. The capital of French-speaking Quebec and a UNESCO world heritage site, it makes a stunning base for a winter holiday with style. Soak up the culture of the city by night and hit the slopes by day — Stoneham, Mt St Anne and Le Massif are all within 45 minutes’ drive. There are shuttles from the hotels. Stay at the Chateau Frontenac, the fairytale castle at the heart of the old town, with magnificent views over the St Lawrence River. quebecregion.com
Tremblant
The largest resort in eastern Canada, Tremblant is the perfect choice is for European skiers after the best of both worlds. Like Whistler, it’s owned by the Canadian ski giant Intrawest, but it mixes French flair with North American convenience. The colourful village is crammed with bars and restaurants and though it may be known for its nightlife and joie de vivre, the skiing is pretty good too: nearly 100 trails are spread over more than 600 acres and four mountain faces — enough for any snow aficionado. tremblant.ca
