From Peaks to Pacific: A Journey Through Whistler and Vancouver’s Wild Beauty

Day 1

We departed Heathrow at 14:10 with Air Canada, arriving in Vancouver around 15:30 local time. Passing through customs and baggage claim was quick and straightforward.

Once through arrivals, we met our transfer to Whistler and set off on a scenic two-and-a-half-hour journey along the beautiful Sea to Sky Highway, taking in views of the ocean, mountains, and Shannon Falls.

Upon arrival in Whistler, we checked into the wonderful Fairmont Chateau Whistler, our home for the next three nights. The hotel is located in the Upper Village, around a 10–15 minute walk from Whistler Village itself.

Day 2

This morning began with a walk to the Delta Hotels Whistler Village Suites, where we enjoyed a site inspection of two of their best-selling room types. This property is perfect for both couples and families and is ideally located in the heart of Whistler Village.

Next, we joined the Glacier Safari Jeep Tour, which offered stunning mountain-top views over the village and lakes, and the chance to spot local wildlife - including a black bear, marmots, and a pika!

We then visited both the Pan Pacific Village Centre and Pan Pacific Mountainside hotels. Just 200 metres apart, the two share amenities. The rooms are beautifully laid out, with the two-bedroom suites particularly well-suited to two couples travelling together.

Afterwards, we explored the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, which offers fascinating insight into the traditions, territories, and history of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations.

Later in the afternoon, we toured the Fairmont Chateau Whistler itself. This fantastic hotel boasts extensive amenities, spacious rooms, and options offering both slopeside and mountain views. With a complimentary shuttle to four key points in Whistler, it’s also conveniently just a 15-minute walk from the village centre. The property is ski-in/ski-out too.

We rounded off the day with a delicious dinner at The Wildflower, the hotel’s elegant restaurant.

Day 5

We began the day with a hosted breakfast at the Sheraton Wall Centre, which offered an excellent selection, followed by a site inspection of the hotel.

Next up was a Cycle City Bike Tour - a brilliant way to explore Vancouver. We cycled through Stanley Park, admired the totem poles, and followed the scenic Seawall, one of the city’s best walking and cycling routes.

Lunch was at Cactus Club Café on Burrard Street! Great food, good prices, and excellent service.

Dinner that evening was at Burgoo, conveniently located opposite the Sheraton. It’s a charming little restaurant specialising in hearty comfort food.

Day 6

Our final day began with check-out before heading to Canada Place for FlyOver Canada - a thrilling 4D flight experience showcasing stunning landscapes from across the country. Seasonal variations are also offered, so it’s well worth checking what’s on.

Our last stop before the airport was Granville Island for the Foodie Tour, which is a must-do for food lovers. We sampled a wide variety of local delicacies, including chai tea, artisan breads, cheeses, charcuterie, a Vietnamese dish, lemon slice, honey-dipped doughnuts, macarons, and coffee. Each tasting came with insights into the ingredients, origins, and vendors.

Before heading to the airport, we grabbed a bite at Salmon n’ Bannock in departures - the first Indigenous food outlet at Vancouver Airport (they also have a downtown location). It’s well worth a visit, serving exclusively Indigenous dishes and drinks. The bannock pizzas, fruit fizz, vegetable chilli, and hot meals were all big hits with our group - a fantastic end to an unforgettable trip.