The Best Places to Ski in Western Canada Other Than Whistler

Flanking the northern shores of Lake Louise, Fairmont Chateau makes for a magical sight come winter, when it’s surrounded by snow-capped trees and mountains. The nearby ski resort boasts 4,200 skiable acres (1,700ha) – and guests of the Fairmont Chateau receive priority reservations (ski gear is also able to rent from the hotel lobby, so don’t fret about lugging any there with you). When you’re pisted out, there’s a lavish spa and spectacular dining options to sample.

With the Canadian Rockies as its backdrop, the aptly named Lake Louise Inn is a homely and modern spot for your next ski break. Opt for one of the apartments if you’re looking at a longer stay (the loft-style condo is particularly recommended) and be sure to sample the delights at the in-house Legends Restaurant, too. When you’re ready to hit the slopes, there are free shuttles to the Lake Louise ski area, as well as complimentary snowshoe rentals.

Set among a canopy of towering trees, Peaks Bed and Breakfast is a lush option for those visiting the Sun Peaks Resort area. Rooms here are large and light-filled, many with private wrap-around balconies. The hosts are extremely knowledgeable about the area and will give you lots of tips for what to do during your stay – other than ski, of course. Breakfast is a must as well – it’s home-made using locally sourced products.

Boasting a set of traditional stone-clad chalets in Downtown Banff, Hidden Ridge Resort is ideal for travelers opting for longer stays. Most rooms offer wood-burning fireplaces (so be sure to pack everything you need to make s’mores), fully equipped kitchens and hot tubs – if you don’t have the latter, there are hot pools in the hotel grounds for all guests to enjoy. When skiing is on the agenda, Mount Norquay Ski Resort is a short drive away.

A stalwart hotel in Downtown Banff for over half a century, Charltons Banff is a traditional, yet contemporary option for your next ski break. After a day skiing the slopes of nearby Mount Norquay ski resort, dine on Alberta beef and tuna loin at the Evergreen Restaurant & Lounge. Make sure you have a reservation, though. When you’re ready for bed, marvel at the room and its lovely high ceilings and cedar accents.

A mere five-minute stroll to the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort gondola, the ski-in, ski-out Winston Lodge is a superb spot for serious skiers. Post-piste, you’ll be eager to return to your rooms – there are just 11 luxury suites here, all with hand-crafted solid-wood furniture, feather down beds and private balconies providing magnificent mountain views. Come nightfall, it’s best to congregate in the Bar & Bistro for beer and pizza.

An alpine gem, flanked by a towering, snow-capped fir and pine forest, Golden Acres Mountain Lodge makes for an aesthetically pleasing sight. Rooms are spacious, some with jacuzzis and walk-in showers – and there’s also an al fresco hot tub, best used at night for undisturbed views of the stars. Come morning, home-made breakfasts are served to a view of the Rocky Mountains.

A short drive from Whitewater Ski Resort, Cloudside Hotel sits in the pretty British Columbia city of Nelson. Set in a villa dating back to 1900, each of the individually designed, apartment-style rooms are named after trees (willow, maple, etc), but opt for the sycamore if you can – it has a private covered veranda and french doors leading out to the garden terrace.

With 12 luxe rooms, most with exposed brick walls, large windows and minimalist decor, the Savoy Hotel is a lovely boutique option in the compact mountain town of Nelson. With the Whitewater Ski Resort just down the road, those who love the après-ski life will appreciate the rooftop hot tub overlooking Kootenay Lake, the cedar sauna and Bloom nightclub which sits just downstairs.

Just 80m (262ft) from the Elk Quad ski lift at Fernie Alpine Resort, Lizard Creek Lodge offers a luxe ski-in, ski-out option for your next trip to the Canadian Rockies – there’s a gentle run that slopes just past the hotel. When you’re not soaking amid the snow at the hotel’s outdoor pool and hot tubs, there’s a spa, ice bar and a restaurant where you can dine on local specialties such as elk bolognese.

As its name suggests, Alpine Lodge Fernie sits within Fernie Alpine Resort. The chalet-style resort has ski-in, ski-out facilities and there’s a communal log fire primed for an end-of-day vino. Rooms are sleek, with high ceilings and mountain views and there’s a hot tub and steam room to help soothe your muscles after a long day on the slopes.

With the Revelstoke Mountain Resort less than a 10-minute drive away, Coast Hillcrest Hotel makes an ideal base for serious skiers looking to tackle the biggest vertical in North America. The hotel offers a free seasonal shuttle to the slopes, it’s pet-friendly and close to local breweries and distilleries. Post-ski, sample locally sourced fare at the Begbie Room or cosy up with your favorite book under vaulted ceilings in the Valley View Reading Room.

At Boulder Mountain Resort, guests can choose between luxe cabins, RV sites or glamping during their stay. For the homely winter experience, opt for one of the cabins for a storybook stay. Black diamond runs at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort are just a 15-minute drive away, or book in for one of the hotel’s Sled and Bed packages to experience the Boulder Mountain Trails on your doorstep.