Things to do in Canada
Popular Ski Resorts in Canada
Whistler Resort, British Columbia
Welcome to Whistler, British Columbia, a world-renowned Canadian ski resort that stands at an altitude of 680 meters. Boasting the title of North America’s premier mountain resort, Whistler Blackcomb is a skier’s paradise with direct access to 216 marked pistes and a comprehensive lift system, including the record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola connecting Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. The ski slopes cater to all skill levels, offering terrain ranging from easy learner areas to challenging expert trails, including the infamous Couloir Extreme run on Blackcomb mountain.
Whistler Blackcomb is more than just a skiing destination; it’s an expansive winter wonderland with over 8,000 acres of terrain, 16 alpine bowls, three glaciers, and six terrain parks. The Olympic Park, a legacy of the 2010 games, offers additional winter activities, from snowshoeing to bobsleigh rides. For those seeking adventure beyond the slopes, try a snowmobile or dogsled tour through frozen lakes and ancient cedar forests, or experience Canada’s longest zipline.
After exhilarating days on the mountain, immerse yourself in Whistler’s vibrant après-ski scene, where live music, lively bars, and over 100 dining options await. Whether indulging in classic dishes at Christine’s or savouring vegetarian delights at Raven’s Nest, Whistler offers culinary experiences for every taste and budget. Come discover the magic of Whistler, where epic skiing, cultural richness, and breath taking scenery converge for an unforgettable vacation from November to May, with the added allure of summer skiing.
Mont Tremblant Resort, Quebec
Discover the charm of Mont Tremblant Resort, Quebec, a four-season haven nestled in the Laurentian Mountains, just a scenic 90-minute drive north of Montreal. Known as the largest ski resort on Canada’s east coast and consistently voted the ‘Best Resort in Eastern North America,’ Tremblant offers a European-style pedestrian village with updated mountain facilities, spacious ski-in, ski-out accommodations, and a vibrant atmosphere. In the summer, explore the pristine freshwater lake, embark on endless hiking adventures, and indulge in activities like golfing, zip-lining, and mountain biking.
The ski-in, ski-out convenience caters to mixed-ability groups, providing runs from beginner-friendly greens to challenging double black diamonds. The village’s cobblestone streets adorned with boutiques and maple syrup shops create a picturesque setting. Mont Tremblant, standing at 875 meters, boasts four mountain faces with a variety of groomed runs, offering some of the best skiing experiences in Eastern Canada. Blending Québécois and American architecture, this resort is often hailed as the ‘Disneyland of winter ski’ for its wealth of activities.
Named after the Algonquin tribe’s ‘trembling mountain,’ Tremblant exudes a unique blend of French and Canadian cuisine, making it a gastronomic delight.
Lake Louise, Alberta
Embark on a breath taking adventure at Lake Louise, Alberta, where the Lake Louise Ski Resort unfolds as a masterpiece of stunning scenery and diverse terrain. Spanning over 4,200 acres across four mountain faces, Lake Louise stands as one of North America’s largest ski resorts.
Surrounded by the jaw-dropping views of Banff National Park, Lake Louise treats visitors to an unrivalled winter wonderland. Glide across the frozen Lake Louise, set against the backdrop of majestic peaks, forests, and glaciers, and explore 4,200 acres of terrain, ranging from tree-lined greens to powder-filled Back Bowls. For mixed-ability groups, colored runs lead down from each lift, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all.
The village, a short bus ride away, offers a laid-back atmosphere with cozy hotels and shops. For an extra touch of luxury, the Fairmont Chateau, perched on the edge of the frozen lake, provides an enchanting escape. Capture the essence of the region by ice skating on the lake or strolling along the scenic trail, where encounters with elk or bighorn sheep might grace your journey. Lake Louise, nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, promises an extraordinary ski holiday with pristine wilderness and world-class terrain.
Fernie, British Columbia
Discover Fernie, British Columbia, a winter paradise where over 2500 acres of skiable terrain, up to 37 feet of annual snowfall, and 142 named runs await skiers and riders of all levels. Boasting five alpine bowls, state-of-the-art snowmaking, and an exceptional beginner’s area, Fernie stands as a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts. This town, surrounded by the majestic Rockies, originated as a mining town and has evolved into the renowned Fernie Alpine Resort (FAR). Embrace the legacy of Fernie, where legendary skiing meets captivating tales from locals, pioneers, and free skiers in one of North America’s classic Rocky Mountain ski towns.
Located in South Eastern British Columbia along the Powder Highway, Fernie is celebrated for its consistent snowfall, with an average of 875 cm annually. The town of 5,200 people encapsulates the spirit of a powder haven, offering not only epic snow conditions but also a vibrant community. Beyond the incredible snow, Fernie Alpine Resort features impressive double-black terrain, including the exhilarating Knot Chutes and skier-favourite areas like the ridge on skiers’ left of Currie Bowl.
During the summer, Fernie transforms into a mountain playground with its Bike Park, Tree-Top Aerial playground, Ripping’ Zipline, chairlift rides, hiking tours, and Interpretive Centre, providing year-round adventures for all nature enthusiasts.
Sommet Saint-Sauveur, Quebec
Explore the winter wonderland of Sommet Saint-Sauveur, a premier ski resort located in the breath taking Laurentides region of Quebec, Canada. Just an hour’s drive from Montreal, this resort stands as a testament to Quebec’s ski industry, offering a remarkable 38 km of slopes connected to the neighbouring Mont Avila ski resort. Nestled between elevations of 416 and 629 meters, Mont Saint-Sauveur boasts the longest ski season in the region, thanks to its exceptional snow-making capabilities.
With 40 different runs spanning 57 hectares of skiable terrain, Sommet Saint-Sauveur caters to all skill levels, from bunny hills for beginners to challenging mogul runs and expert trails. The resort features a perfect balance of nine beginner, nine intermediate, 17 difficult, and five expert runs, ensuring that every winter enthusiast finds their ideal slope. Beyond the exhilarating descents, experience the thrill of the SNOPRK terrain park for freestyle adventures, while night skiing adds an enchanting touch to the already exceptional conditions.
Mont Saint-Sauveur is not just a ski destination; it’s an immersive experience with world-class night skiing, four quads providing access to ridgeline slopes, and an array of amenities, including slope side lodging, outlet shopping, and diverse dining options. For added excitement, embark on unique adventures like The Viking, a passenger-controlled ride, or take a daring journey on Le Dragon, a double zipline providing breath taking views from the mountain’s summit. Sommet Saint-Sauveur is where winter dreams come to life, offering an unforgettable blend of outdoor thrills and cosy comforts.
Unique Attractions - Discovering Destinations
Niagara Falls, Toronto
Set off on an unforgettable journey to the picturesque city of Niagara Falls, located in southern Ontario, Canada, just an hour and a half from Toronto. The city’s main attraction, the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls, comprising three distinct waterfalls, including the iconic Horseshoe Falls, is globally recognized as a natural wonder. Beyond the majestic falls, Niagara Falls offers a vibrant all-season experience with attractions like the Sky Wheel, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museum on Clifton Hill’s “Street of Fun”, and the enchanting Winter Festival of Lights. Indulge in thrilling boat tours, witness the nightly Niagara Falls fireworks, and explore numerous walking, hiking, and cycling trails in the surrounding nature.
Situated on the Canada-US border, Niagara Falls is easily accessible, making it a sought-after vacation spot for families and honeymooners. The falls, shared by both countries, captivate visitors year-round, with summer nights showcasing a dazzling display of lights and fireworks. The thunderous roar and cool mist of the falls leave a lasting impression. Niagara Falls is not just a destination; it’s a year-round extravaganza with unique experiences in each season. While late June to Labour Day offers prime weather and bustling activities, the Spring, Fall, and Winter seasons provide a more relaxed atmosphere to savour the beauty at a comfortable pace.
Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland
Nestled on the west coast of the island of Newfoundland, Gros Morne National Park beckons with its amazing landscapes shaped by ancient geological forces. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park showcases soaring fjords, majestic mountains, and a diverse tapestry of beaches, bogs, and forests. The centre piece, Gros Morne, a peak in the Long Range Mountains, boasts a trail offering panoramic views of the Ten Mile Pond gorge. Glacial influences have crafted the remarkable Western Brook Pond fjord, adorned with cliffs and Pissing Mare Falls. The Tablelands, resembling a desert, unveils unique rock formations forged by tectonic plate movements over a billion years ago.
Immersing yourself in Gros Morne’s natural wonders, you can explore coastal boardwalks, traverse thick forests, and ascend Gros Morne itself for unparalleled views of glassy fjords. Guided by local experts, unravel the tales of colliding continents and witness moose grazing in grasslands. Despite its dramatic atmosphere, Gros Morne remains easily accessible by car, ferry, or plane from Montréal and Toronto, welcoming visitors to a realm of pristine wilderness and unparalleled beauty. Whether you seek a tranquil stroll, an adrenaline-pumping adventure, or vibrant fall foliage, Gros Morne promises an unforgettable experience amid the stunning landscapes of Newfoundland’s west coast.
The Northern Lights (aurora borealis), Newfoundland
Embark on a journey to witness the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, in the captivating landscapes of Newfoundland and Labrador. This natural phenomenon, often described as an elusive ingénue, showcases phosphorescent green, yellow, and pink lights that gracefully paint the night sky. Travelers from around the world venture to northern Canada, where the aurora borealis graces the heavens approximately 240 nights a year. The optimal viewing period, from November to March, reveals a stunning spectacle against the backdrop of a frozen, white wonderland.
For an enchanting experience, head to Newfoundland’s remote mountain base camp, offering a front-row seat to the celestial performance. Immerse yourself in the captivating display of charged particles from the sun colliding with gases in the Earth’s magnetic field, creating luminous curtains of emerald green, yellow, and pink. Winter, with its dramatic contrast against the snowy landscape, is an ideal time to witness this mesmerizing light show. Whether you choose a cosy tee pee village outside Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories or a secluded mountain vantage point in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Northern Lights promise an otherworldly experience that captivates the soul.
Dawson City, Yukon
Positioned on the banks of the Yukon River, Dawson City stands as a vibrant testament to the melding of First Nations heritage and Gold Rush history, creating an eclectic northern community brimming with life. This town, once dubbed “The Paris of the North,” has gracefully transitioned from its gritty gold rush days to become a hub of Gold Mining, Tourism, and Arts. Immerse yourself in Dawson’s rich past marked by Beringia’s Ice Age influence, the enduring presence of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nations, and the frenzied Klondike Gold Rush that echoed globally.
Today, Dawson City pulsates with energy, hosting a variety of festivals, cultural events, and unique contests, including gold panning competitions and outhouse races. The city’s historic downtown, a designated National Historic Site, reveals its illustrious past as the largest city north of Seattle and west of Winnipeg during the gold rush era. Wander through streets where elegant paddle wheelers once navigated the Yukon River, encounter tour guides in gold rush-era attire, and experience daily shows at Canada’s oldest gambling hall. Dawson City, with its captivating history and dynamic present, invites you to relive the spirit of the Klondike Gold Rush while enjoying the charm of a modern northern town.
Notre-Dame Basilica, Montréal
Step into the awe-inspiring world of Notre-Dame Basilica in Montréal, a true masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture and a jewel in Québec’s religious heritage. From its humble beginnings in the 17th century to evolving into a minor basilica, this church, built between 1824 and 1829, is a testament to the city’s rich history of religion and art. The exterior, with dual towers reminiscent of Notre-Dame-de-Paris, houses the renowned 10,900-kg Jean-Baptiste bell and a carillon of ten bells. The interior is a exciting blend of blue hues, shimmering gold-leaf ornamentation, intricate woodwork, and over 350 years of parish history depicted in colourful stained-glass windows by Québec artist Jean-Baptiste Lagacé.
Under the artistic direction of Montréal architect Victor Bourgeau, the basilica’s interior was completed in 1880, featuring a remarkable 7,000-pipe Casavant organ and impeccable acoustics. The West Tower stands as a sentinel, home to the impressive bell, while the East Tower hosts a harmonious carillon. The basilica’s religious sanctuary, guarded by statues of Saint-Joseph, the Virgin Mary, and Saint-Jean-Baptiste, welcomes millions of visitors annually. The sheer beauty of its design, along with the rich decor created with materials like Carrara marble, pink granite, onyx, and gold, makes Notre-Dame Basilica a must-visit destination. Immerse yourself in the exquisite craftsmanship, stained glass, and historical significance that define this cultural landmark, offering a profound connection to Montréal’s past and present.
Share this article
