Cheap flights to Whistler

As the bend in the road curves sharply, the coach starts to slow down and the loud voices of skiers and snow boarders debating over which sport is ‘cooler’ suddenly go quiet. Heads turn to look outside at the most spectacular view: giant towering cedars draped in a blanket of white snow with frozen lakes beside them forming a path to the fairy tale village of Whistler.  

Located just 77 miles from Vancouver, the resort town of Whistler has become one of the most popular ski resorts in the world – and with good reason.  Not only is it the venue for the 2010 Winter Olympics, which has added to its global recognition, but it caters to everyone from novice to professional skiers and even non-skiers. Both mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, offer a varied terrain suitable for every ability. But that’s not the only reason millions visit the resort each year. The pedestrianised Whistler Village has lots to keep everyone, including young children and teenagers, entertained with its shops, cinemas, gourmet restaurants and lively après ski.

Flights to Whistler arrive at Vancouver Airport, from here Whistler is a two-hour drive or coach ride along the famous Sea-to-Sky highway.

When is the best time to fly to Whistler?

Peak Season:
Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts book Whistler flights in mid-December, and the mountain’s peak season peak is January and February. Summer, from May to August, is also a popular time for outdoor activities including mountain biking.

Off Season:
Shoulder season tends to be from September to November when there are fewer crowds.

What is good to know if travelling to Whistler?

• Treat your tired limbs to a full day of pampering at one of Whistler’s spas.  Most of the hotels have spas in them that can be used by non-guests but tend to be very pricey. Instead pop into one of the independent spas around the village.
• Let the Alaskan Huskies take you through Whistler’s backcountry. Book a dog-sledding tour for a fun day out.
• Don’t miss out on the lively après ski around the village. Garibaldi Lift Co. Bar & Grill, or GLC as the locals call it, is by far the most popular.
• The Whistler Blackcomb website offers lots of useful information for skiers and snowboarders, including weather and snow reports and live webcams of the slopes and lifts.

Whistler airport overview

Vancouver International Airport has a wide range of non-stop flights to Europe, Asia and the Americas and is conveniently located only 12km (7.5 miles) from downtown Vancouver.

What’s special about this airport is that it is located on Sea Island, just across the river from Vancouver. A large conservation project, it is designed to offset the environmental impact of the airport.

Passengers using Vancouver International will find that there’s a lot to do at the airport. Shopping ranges from small souvenirs to great duty-free items. There is a variety of restaurants and snack bars and there’s a host of other services to enjoy. As the second-busiest airport in Canada, it is easy to find flights to Vancouver International. The airport is a regional hub for Air Canada, Air Canada Jazz and Air Transat.

Vancouver International Airport is the gateway to the famously cosmopolitan city of Vancouver and the natural charms of western Canada. There is plenty to do at the airport, and with its friendly staff and beautiful surroundings this is a great introduction to the region.