Fairmont Chateau Whistler would have to be one of the biggest ski hotels in North America. At 528 rooms it’s so big that it even has its own hotel within a hotel – Fairmont Gold – with a separate check-in area, lounge and rooms. Built in 1988, this hotel has been around for a while. All Fairmont hotels are designed in the style of a French chateau – and the sheer size of the Fairmont Whistler makes it feel almost like you’re staying in a castle. (Fairmont made its name from constructing equally large and spectacular hotels along the tourist railway lines in Canada).
It should be noted however that if you’re looking for peace and quiet you should try someplace else, as Fairmont Whistler is constantly hustling and bustling. But for a family that wants luxury facilities, several dining options, and the convenience of being close to everything (including the ski school), this is a great choice. Your kids will love the indoor/outdoor pool area, while adults can take advantage of the recently renovated gym, full service bar and wonderful wooden barrel saunas.. There’s also a lap pool with four large hot tubs in which you can soak your tired ski muscles.
The rooms and suites do not include kitchenette facilities, however, there are some fantastic dining options located within the hotel and only a short walk away in the Blackcomb and Whistler villages. The Mallard is particularly great for a light lunch or evening meal, The Wildflower is the go-to spot for a hearty breakfast, or head to the The Chalet for some memorable fondue. Portobello has undergone an extensive renovation and is now open daily for breakfast, lunch and après (and a wonderful smokehouse dinner).
As you might expect from a hotel of such grandeur, the rooms are luxurious and the bathrooms equally so (although only the Fairmont Gold rooms have fireplaces). Suite rooms are interconnecting and allow a king room and double queen room to be joined for families. Many rooms also offer a sleeper sofa for extra guests. There’s a price difference between rooms with valley views and those that look towards the slopes. Pick one with a slope view if you must, but the valley view is really quite spectacular (and it’s the less expensive one).
