From US$200, inclusive of wifi (still a rarity in North America)
– Dubh Linn Gate Irish Pub, at Mountainside, has delicious food and drink (even flights of gluten-free beer!) and spectacular views of the slopes.
– The mountain-base looks a bit drab and brown in the summer, though that’s very enticing from the perspective of a mountain biker!
We look out at Whistler Mountain, the base of which is right across from our balcony overlooking the pool. The mountain bikers are zooming down the slope, some making dramatic jumps, as they race to catch the next chairlift up to Whistler Mountain Bike Park, the number one lift-accessed downhill bike park in the world. These are prime seats, and even better on winter Sundays with the Fire and Ice Show right outside!
We’re in our suite at Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside, one of two Pan Pacifics in Whistler Village. The other, Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre, is just a block away and is slightly quieter (not that I was bothered by any noise), has an included breakfast, but not quite as spectacular mountain views.
All rooms at both Pan Pacifics are suites, with a fully-equipped kitchen (yup, you can make a turkey dinner if you like!); dining area; living room with pull-out couch, fireplace and TV; a bedroom with a luxe bed and another TV; and a large bathroom with Pan Pacific’s lovely amenities. The decor is slightly different in each hotel, but both can be characterized as modern mountain style. You can opt for a 2- or 3-bedroom suite with much more space if you’re travelling with a bigger group, though a family of four would be content in a regular suite.
Both hotels have outdoor heated saltwater pools with two whirlpools and a gym. The Mountainside location has a steamroom, while Village Centre has a sauna as well as a day spa.
Regardless of which hotel you choose, you’ll have the luxury of complimentary gear storage. Here in the winter? Ski almost to Whistler Moutainside’s back door and the ski valet will help you manage your gear into a locker, ready for the next morning. You can even store your boots in your warm locker so there’s no need to clomp to your room in your ski boots, nor put your feet into icy boots the next morning (that’s luxury!). The valet will store your bike of golf clubs for you in the summer too.
Both Mountainside and Village Centre give guests the luxury of Pan Pacific that you come to know and expect, with an unparalleled Whistler mountain location. Hit the slopes!
