Off Piste in Canada

Consistently voted near, if not at the top of almost every skier’s dream destination as well as most official rankings, Whistler has planted its roots very deeply and is there to stay. This monolithic resort has hosted events like the Winter Olympics and continues to draw in athletes, holidaymakers and anyone else who visits with an intense, immeasurable and undiminishing pull.

Three skiable mountains (forming Canada’s second biggest ski area), a European style ski-out village and oodles of both powder snow and sunshine make Sun Peaks a winner when it comes to hassle free, good time ski holidays.

Whether it’s down to a local legend, the Griz, or just good old Mother Nature, an annual snow depth of more than two double-decker buses is the making of an awesome week on the Rockies. And with those glorious groomers and deep powder bowls up in resort, plus some cool Canadian vibes downtown, what’s not to love about Fernie?

Set in the Purcell Mountains within the Canadian Rockies range, Panorama ski holidays provide an unbeatable mix of excellent skiing and take-your-breath-away, soul-rejuvenating views (it’s all in the name!). The atmosphere is intimate and laid back, with slope side hot spring baths, quality accommodation and reliably tasty Rockies’ grub.

Marmot Basin is heaven on earth if you love unpretentious, untamed skiing. The slopes are split evenly for beginners, intermediates and experts, all covered in deliciously dry powder; both Marmot Basin and Jasper Town have a friendly, authentic and down to earth vibe where you’ll feel right at home and the surrounding Rockies are naturally awesome.

With a slightly different ski holiday on the cards, spend your days out and about exploring the sights and ski areas of the magnificent national park (featuring some of the best scenery and slopes on the planet) – before heading downtown for hearty Canadian grub, friendly nightlife and world-renowned accommodation in one of North America’s legendary mountain towns.

Voted “Best Ski Resort in Canada” (in the World Ski Awards), this is one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever ski. With a unique ski area that lets all abilities ski from every lift, a 360° panorama of Banff National Park and iconic hotels like the lakeside Fairmont Chateau, Lake Louise is truly world class.

“Heli-skiing splendour at lift ticket prices”, the Horse is the most formidable spot on the Powder Highway, with the kind of 45 degree descents you’ll tell the grandkids about. Make the most of the fact it’s still in its infancy and get here soon for the little to no lift lines, empty slopes, and - we’re in the Canadian Rockies after all – dreamily light powder almost always.

When Revelstoke opened its doors in 2007, it was the biggest North American ski resort debut for twenty years. With the combined efforts of Revy’s lift, cat, heli and backcountry skiing, it accesses a ridiculous 515,000 acres of terrain, and is the only resort on the planet to offer heli and cat skiing from a single village base.

2013 saw Big Sky overtake Vail to become THE biggest ski area in the US, with 5800 skiable acres across 4 different mountains. For all its draws, the place manages to stay gloriously quiet and unassuming – whether you’re an A-List celeb or mere mortal skier, this is a place to ski, relax and enjoy good company.