Photography courtesy of Eric Rubens

Whistler is one of those rare destinations that offers something for everyone. Many come for the world-class skiing and snowboarding, but the mountain is full of activities that cater to all ages and interests. Whether carving through fresh powder, indulging in the local dining scene, or exploring the charming village, Whistler ensures every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories. 

One experience that far exceeded expectations was taking my family sightseeing on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. My little ones were captivated the entire ride, pointing at skiers, waving to passing gondolas and marveling at how high we soared over the valley. Whether or not you ski, this is an absolute must-do. It was a moment that reminded me how Whistler makes its most iconic attractions accessible for families of all ages.

While many visitors focus on Whistler Village, there’s so much more to explore beyond its lively center. We found ourselves enchanted by Creekside Village, the original base of Whistler Mountain, just steps from our Kadenwood residence. Quieter yet still offering incredible access to the slopes, Creekside had a charm all its own. Taking the Kadenwood gondola was an adventure in itself, especially for the kids, and we loved exploring the nearby restaurants. A highlight was Nita Lake Lodge, a Michelin Key awarded resort & spa, where upscale comfort met stunning lakeside views. Winding down with a fantastic meal — my favorite was the Fraser Valley Duck with Cranberry-Glazed Celeriac — and drinks (an Old Fashioned for me!) after a full day on the mountain was the perfect way to end the evening.

Each morning started at BReD bakery, where I’d grab a matcha latte while my kids eagerly picked out warm cinnamon rolls. The simple joy of waking up to snowfall, a rare sight for us as Southern Californians, made every morning feel like a scene from a winter postcard. Watching the kids rush to the window, mesmerized by the snow-covered trees and plows clearing the roads, set the tone for the adventures ahead.

During our stay, nearly two feet of fresh snow fell — something we hadn’t experienced on a ski trip in almost a decade. There was no better place to be than Kadenwood. My wife and I were on the mountain early, eager to take advantage of the untouched powder. Our first run from the gondola down to Creekside Village was pure magic — knee-deep powder and untracked terrain. We looped it four or five times before venturing to other parts of the mountain. Those first runs? Unforgettable.

For a truly exceptional meal, we had The Collective Kitchen curate a private dining experience at our residence. From sweet and spicy ribs paired with lobster gyoza to expertly prepared filet mignon and black cod, every dish was perfection. Enjoying a gourmet meal by the fire in the comfort of our cabin was an experience that will stay with us long after the trip.

Few things capture the essence of mountain culture like après-ski. It’s that magical hour when skiers and snowboarders come together to celebrate an epic day on the slopes. Whistler does it better than anywhere I’ve been — the energy is infectious, the atmosphere is lively, and the sense of camaraderie is unmatched. World-renowned as “the” place to après, the Garibaldi Lift Company (GLC) is unmatched with fire pits perfectly situated with views of the skiiers finishing their last runs.

One of the best things about Whistler is how effortlessly an unplanned afternoon can turn into an adventure. We took the kids to the Tube Park on Blackcomb for some high-speed fun before heading over to Whistler Olympic Park for classic tobogganing. If we had an extra day, there’d be no question — we’d be back on the slopes. The snow was world-class, and leaving was the hardest part. A perfect day would be spent carving through fresh powder, followed by a relaxed après session and finishing with a soak in our private jacuzzi at the residence. Whistler delivered yet another unforgettable adventure, and we’re already dreaming of the next one.

Staying at a spacious Exclusive Resorts residence in Kadenwood made all the difference, especially with young kids and grandparents in tow. The concierge team handled everything — from dining reservations to gear rentals — so we could focus on making memories. And having a private gondola at our doorstep? It doesn’t get more exclusive than that. Perched above the valley with breathtaking views, our residence provided the perfect balance of seclusion and accessibility. The jacuzzi and steam room were the cherry on top, making each day feel like a true luxury retreat.

Eric Rubens is a seasoned photographer and travel enthusiast. Follow his adventures on Instagram @ericrubens.

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