Whistler-Blackcomb is the biggest ski area in North America, boasting over 7000 acres of skiable terrain. Many would argue that it's also the best.

A compact, purpose-built, alpine-style resort fashioned along European lines, established in the mid 1960s and measuring no more than 1 ml in each direction. It comprises 3 neighbouring hubs of accommodation and services.

The skiing is great for all abilities on both mountains with the peak of Whistler mountain being particularly appropriate for advanced skiers. There you will find great off-piste with couloirs and bowls providing some of the best powder around.

This area caters for predominantly middle- to upmarket skiers, snowboarders and off-piste specialists from Canada and USA, although increasing numbers of Europeans are now discovering it.

The accommodation in the resort has a few full-service hotels. The vast majority are privately owned condominiums, lodges or studios leased to management groups. Most provide well-equipped kitchens, fireplaces and a choice of room configurations that will suit self-catering families and small groups.

Overall, one of the top destinations in North America, but as the number of package tourists increase, there is a worry that the resort will lose some of its charm. With Vancouver-Whistler having set for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, the global profile of the resort has grown as huge capital investments have further improved the resort infrastructure.

Locality:

In the SW corner of Canada, in the province of British Columbia, in the heart of the rugged Coast Mountains. 80 mls N of British Columbia's major city, Vancouver; 92 mls N of its international airport. In a heavily forested valley with several small lakes, at the foot of the Blackcomb and Whistler Mountains. Reached via Sea-to-Sky Highway (Hwy 99) that winds N from Vancouver and the Pacific coast.

Ski Information:

Highest lift: 2284m (7493ft), Lowest lift: 652m (2139ft), Vertical drop: 1632m (5354ft), Number of lifts: 33, Uplift capacity: 59007 p/hr, Number of slopes: 216, Beginner: 20%, Intermediate: 55%, Expert: 25%, Snowboard parks: 2, Cross country: 45km