How to Plan the Ultimate Romantic Getaway in Whistler
There are too many fun, romantic things to do in Whistler to count. A short trip in the mountains may be just the tonic to stoke the romance in your relationship. At any time of year, Whistler makes the ideal destination for couples.
Whether you’re an adventurous couple in search of alpine thrills, or hoping for something more mellow and an opportunity to relax, here’s our top tips on making your Whistler getaway special.
7 Romantic Date Ideas In Whistler
Now that you’ve arrived in Whistler (and begun to take in the natural beauty), you’ll be keen to explore! We’ve thought about where we would go on a date and put together our top 5 fun date ideas in Whistler
Vallea Lumina
Get cozy with a warm drink and a warm hand to hold.
Launched in 2018, this incredible night walk is easily one of our fave date ideas in Whistler. It’s an experience like no other. Follow the story of two hikers missing in the forest as you witness the forest come alive with lights, lasers, sounds and holograms. For maximum impact, we recommend booking a time slot that’s guaranteed to be dark. We find that anything after 8 pm is great because there’s fewer people, too, allowing you to be more immersed in the experience.
Paddle Boarding
An afternoon on the lake is always a pretty fun time. Spend quality time with your beau and take to the water for paddle boarding. There are a couple of renting options in Whistler and you’ll love being on the water. If you’d prefer to kayak or canoe, they’re great options too. The River of Golden Dreams may be worthwhile adding to your itinerary. You can join a tour and take in the scenery on a self-guided paddle.
Bubly Tube Park
In winter months, we love spending an afternoon at the Bubly Tube Park on Blackcomb Mountain. It’s a unique way to experience the mountain and spend time playing in the snow. We’d recommend arranging this midweek, if possible, to avoid queuing in the cold. Afterwards, head for the Garibaldi Lift Co. in Skier’s Plaza for hot chocolate (with or without Baileys) and people-watching from the firepits.
Scandinave Spa
Another fun date idea in Whistler has to be Scandinave Spa. Unwind and recharge as you follow the traditional hot-cold-relax cycle. Expect hot tubs, traditional cedar saunas and eucalyptus steam rooms. If you want to add to the experience, there are options to add a massage too. Scandinave Spa is the perfect place to revel in some serious downtime with your love.
Nordic Night Skiing
The best date nights are when you and your partner can laugh at each other. Nordic Night Skiing at Whistler Sport Legacies offers exactly that. Pick between skate or classic skis and enjoy over 120 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The best part? Go on a Wednesday night to enjoy a locals rate of $8 entry.
RZR Tour
A RZR Tour where you soar over rocks, whiz through the trees, and race through the dirt and mud is the perfect romantic thing to do in Whistler for adrenaline-loving couples. Enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of glacier-fed lakes and the West Coast’s most infamous rainforest.
Tasting Tour
The best way to your partner’s heart is through their stomach. That’s a saying, right? Go on a Whistler Tasting Tour and eat your way through the romantic resort city. Each tour lasts three to three and a half hours. In addition to tasting some of Whistler’s best food, you’ll also be matched with a friendly local guide who’ll provide insight into Whistler’s rich history.
7 Romantic Dinner and Cocktail Destinations
Exploring Whistler can be hungry work. Luckily there are a wide variety of cuisines to choose from in Whistler and even more watering holes to enjoy a beverage or two. If we were looking for a romantic dining experience, here’s where we would visit:
Red Door Bistro
Consistently recognised as one of Whistler’s best restaurants, Red Door Bistro is located in the quieter Creekside neighbourhood. It’s a smaller venue and more intimate – perfect for date night. The food is divine and the service very attentive without being intrusive. We’d recommend booking your table in advance as Red Door Bistro can fill up quickly.
The Chalet
In winter months, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Course clubhouse transforms into The Chalet – A Bavarian-inspired eatery. It’s made our list thanks to it’s incredible fondue, which is a great dish to share with your beau. If cheese isn’t your thing, there are other great dishes on the menu including schnitzel and bratwurst. Maybe the chocolate fondue for dessert would be more your jam?
Bar Oso
A sneak peak at whats in store for you at Elements in Whistler
A great option for cocktails and tapas, Bar Oso is one of Whistler’s premier watering holes. It’s a nice excuse to dress up a little bit and get some nice conversation going. Located right on the Village Stroll, it’s a great spot to people-watch too. We’d recommend trying the Oso Sour – it features bacon-infused bourbon!
Basalt
Specialising in wine, cheese and charcuterie, Basalt was made for date night. We’d recommend getting close to the action by opting to sit at the bar. In warmer months, they have a great patio right on the stroll, too.
Elements
Looking for a little breakfast date? Hit up Elements. Open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, Elements is a cozy little spot that specializes in brunch foods. Seriously, we can’t recommend their brunch enough.
Hy’s Steakhouse
If you’re ready to ball out on a great steak, go to Hy’s Steakhouse. The spot is regarded as one of the best steakhouses in the country, serving up specially selected Prime Grade beef, aged a minimum of 28 days and grilled to order.
Sachi Sushi
In addition to having a cozy environment that’s perfect for a romantic date, Sachi Sushi has incredibly fresh fish. Owner and head chef Toshiyuki Kobayashi has over 30 years experience, and has been making sushi in Whistler for over 25 years. It’s definitely one of the best spots in the city for quality sushi.
5 Hotels in Whistler for Couples
Wanting to stay at a luxurious hotel is a must while booking a romantic Whistler getaway. We’ve gathered our favourites, with all different price points.
Nita Lake Lodge
There may be no better place to feel the love, than a luxury room at Nita.
Located in Whistler Creekside, Nita Lake Lodge is one of the most luxurious and romantic places to stay in Whistler. Enjoy lake, mountain, and valley views, along with a complimentary shuttle to Whistler Village. Their spa is also a local’s favorite.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Consistently rated as one of the best hotels in the city, Fairmont Chateau Whistler is one of the top spots to stay. Yes, it’s expensive, but it’s also in a great location and known globally for its romance, opulence, and overall excellence.
Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa
The Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa is located in the heart of Whistler Village and named by Conde Nast as the tenth top resort hotel in Canada. Enjoy pet-friendly rooms and, of course, your classic Whistler hot tub and pools, which allow you to scope out the mountain views while heating up with your honey.
Aava Whistler Hotel
The Aava Whistler Hotel is perfect for young couples. Located walking distance to Whistler Village, this hotel is definitely one of the most underrated with incredibly affordable rates. Take a dip into their large hot tub or sit by the side in the glow of a firepit. You can also enjoy a gym as well as a Go Pro Demo Lab and ski rentals all in one place.
Crystal Lodge Hotel
Start your romantic apres at the cozy Crystal Lounge within the hotel, and then bring yourselves over to the hotel’s hot tub. Crystal Lodge Hotel is located in the heart of the Village and feels like a cabin in the middle of civilization – the best of both worlds.
So When’s the Best Time to Visit?
There’s never a bad time to visit Whistler, and we’re not just saying that. Coming in the summer allows you to enjoy hikes, mountain biking, as well as gorgeous sunny days. The winter offers world-class skiing and boarding, as well as snow covered scenery. If you come in shoulder season, which is spring and fall, you get to enjoy special deals on food and drinks.
Whistler is what you make of it, so be sure to enjoy some of the items on our list of romantic things to do in Whistler, and have fun in the city and all it has to offer.