Fancy a ski holiday? Whistler has long been a popular skiing destination since its opening in 1966, despite it only being accessible on Saturdays because of the dirt road becoming frequently blocked by snowfall, it is far easier to reach today. The resort has won numerous awards over the years, most notably it came No. 1 in the TransWorld Snowboarding Magazine Resort Poll and it received Silver Eagle Award for Excellence in Fish and Wildlife Habitat Protection in 2007. It will also be the proud hosts of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

In 1997 Whistler became integrated with Blackcomb to create the biggest ski area in North America at over 8000 acres, no doubt some of the highest vertical skiing areas of the continent. This year sees the opening of the peak to peak gondola going between the two mountains. What will promise to be awesome ride, and great addition to the resort, will be starting officially on the 12 December – with the first ride going to the highest bidder.

Courtesy of 2010 Olympics, Whistler Blackcomb has received a significant amount of money to improve the resort and the surrounding area. Recently $600 was spent on the Sea to Sky Highway to make the route more efficient to drivers, as well as increasing driver and passenger safety, whilst improvements on the slopes are ongoing.

The resort caters for families seeking winter fun, or couples seeking a little bit of romance, and for accommodation Whistler Blackcomb cannot be beaten for choice and diversity. As an example, the four star Delta Whistler Village offers a great location within Whistler village near to the slopes and the other attractions such as Restaurants, Bars and Shops. Prices start at just over £1000 per person.

There are three glaciers and over 200 trails to choose from. But if you get sick of skiing, Whistler Blackcomb also has the added lure of The Whistler Mountain Bike Park and Air Dome. This attraction offers 250 kilometres worth of trails for any level of rider, and an indoor bike park for BMX and Downhillers alike.

Further information on the numerous tickets, passes and deals to choose from can be found at whistlerblackcomb.com. The resort opens on 27th November until well into 2009, and it could well be a holiday or a Christmas present to remember.