Whistler, Canada Weekend Guide

SHOP THE LOOK

I can’t even begin to describe what an incredible experience Matt and I had in Whistler a couple weekends ago, when we’d made the short trek up from Vancouver in our 2015 Buick Encore (thanks GM Canada for a truly amazing car!) for my lovely Alicia‘s wedding. From our wonderful stay at First Tracks Lodge to one of the best meals of my life at Araxi to a day of true bliss at Scandinave Spa, it was one of those little getaways that truly rests, rejuvenates and revitalizes you, adding a major dose of relaxation and luxury to my life.  Click through to see the whole weekend!

As soon as Matt wrapped up work downtown, we hit the highway (which by the way, is one of the most beautiful drives you can make anywhere in the world) and made the 2 hour drive up. Well, 1.5 hours if you’re speedier, and even faster if traffic is non-existent. Even with some light Crank Works traffic, we made it up with plenty of time to freshen up and head on over to Araxi.

Of course, no Whistler stay would be complete without the perfect hotel experience, and we were honestly so blown away by our stay at First Tracks Lodge, perfectly situated in the lovely Creekside area. Our suite was everything you dream of when you think of a Whistler getaway: cozy, rustic yet luxurious, spacious and, of course, warm – while we came up in the summer, Whistler is really a winter playground. From the beautiful warm tones to the cozy leather couches to the crackling fire, I’m definitely coming back to First Tracks Lodge for my next skiing adventure in Whistler – the lodge is even situated right next to the Creekside area’s gondolas, meaning you can just about ski down to your luxurious hotel suite after a day in the mountains.The whole team (from the concierge to house cleaning to the lovely Jaime) made our whole experience so special. Couldn’t begin to recommend it enough and best of all, First Tracks is part of the Lodging Ovations group that has two other stunning properties in Creekside (Legends and Evolution), so you can take your pick! See all their accommodations here and keep an eye out on the deals/packages page for special promotions!Scandinave Spa

It’s a true testament to my love of Scandinave Spa‘s unreal baths that I’ve been there not once but twice in one month…and that I’m potentially planning to go again next weekend! When I first heard of a “silence oasis,” I was scared – Chatty Cathy is basically my middle name (well actually, Catherine is so pretty damn close) and while I meditate daily, that’s capped after 10 minutes. Could I really spend hours in total silence and enjoy it?

The answer is a resounding YES. Not only do I enjoy it so very much that I keep going back, but I find I’ve now started craving and almost requiring it as part of my life. Here’s a breakdown of the baths experience: based off of traditional Scandinavian spa practices, you cycle through hot (10 minutes in either a hot bath, sauna or steam room), cold (20-30 seconds in either a cold bath or Nordic shower) and finally, spend at least 10-15 minutes relaxing in hammock haven (my favourite nook of the whole space), a solarium, curled up in a chair in the sun or by an outdoor fireplace, or in these very cool hanging chairs I still haven’t tried yet. Cycle through this all at least 3 times and I can promise that you’ll achieve your bliss – I, for one, leave with all my muscles feeling totally relaxed (the baths gently detoxify and relax your body), my mind blissfully quiet and a very content smile on my face.

This last weekend was Matt’s first experience and let’s just say he is 100% on the Scandinave Spa team now himself. It really is an oasis from everyday life and if you haven’t been yet, please do yourself a favour and at the very least, visit the baths! There are also a whole plethora of other spa services as well that I’m itching to try soon as I’ve heard from everyone who’s experienced them that they’re first class.

Have any questions about Whistler? Let me know in the comments below or shoot me an email at [email protected]!