Under $50

HI–Whistler (5678 Alta Lake Rd., 604/932-5492, www.hihostels.ca) is on the western shore of Alta Lake, boasting magnificent views across the lake to the resort. It’s relatively small (just 32 beds), with facilities including a communal kitchen, dining area, and big, cozy living area. Bike and canoe rentals are available. It’s understandably popular year-round; members pay $32 per night, nonmembers $36 ($75 and $83 respectively for a twin private room). Check-in is 8–11 a.m. and 4–10 p.m. To get there from the south, take Alta Lake Road to the left off Highway 99 and watch for the small sign on the lake side of the road. WAVE transit buses depart Whistler Village and run right past the hostel door.

$100–150

Crystal Lodge (4154 Village Green, 604/932-2221 or 800/667-3363, www.crystal-lodge.com, $128–315 s or d) stands out as an excellent value in the heart of the action of Whistler Village. Traditional Rooms are spacious and have a homey feel. The Lodge Wing holds larger suites with balconies. All guests have the use of an outdoor hot tub and heated pool.

$150–200

The modern log cabins at the Riverside RV Resort (8018 Mons Rd., 604/905-5533, www.whistlercamping.com, $189 s or d) aren’t very spacious, but you’re in Whistler, so you’ll be spending most of your time hiking, biking, and generally being outdoors anyway. They ooze mountain charm and come complete with a small kitchen and TV/VCR combo. Rates are as low as $129 in fall, but rise well over $200 in winter. An on-site grocery store and café save a trip into town.

On the edge of the village and adjacent to one of the valley’s best golf courses is Coast Whistler Hotel (4005 Whistler Way, 604/932-2522 or 800/663-5644, www.coastwhistlerhotel.com, $179 s or d). Each of the 194 rooms is simply but stylishly decorated in pastel colors. Facilities include a heated outdoor pool, exercise room, hot tub, restaurant, and bar. Summer rates start at a reasonable $179, but the winter rate of $295 s or d is a little steep considering you’re away from the ski lifts.

Centrally located Delta Whistler Village Suites (4308 Main St., 604/905-3987 or 888/299-3987, www.deltahotels.com, $195 s or d) combines the conveniences of a full-service hotel with more than 200 kitchen-equipped units—the only such property in Whistler.

$200–250

In the heart of the action, Listel Whistler (4121 Village Green, 604/932-1133 or 800/663-5472, www.listelhotel.com, $249 s or d) is a self-contained resort complete with a year-round outdoor pool, outdoor hot tub, and laundry. The in-house Bearfoot Bistro means you don’t need to leave for dinner.

Over $250

Summit Lodge & Spa (4359 Main St., 604/932-2778 or 888/913-8811, www.summitlodge.com, $280 s or d) is a luxurious European Alps–style boutique hotel. Each of the 81 units features comfortable furnishings, a slate floor, a fireplace, a balcony, and a small kitchen. Check the website for deeply discounted rates year-round.

Fairmont Chateau Whistler, at the base of Blackcomb Mountain in Upper Village (604/938-8000 or 800/257-7544, www.fairmont.com, from $320 s or d) is Whistler’s most luxurious lodging, with its own championship golf course, the Vida Wellness Spa, a health club with the best equipment money can buy, tennis courts, multiple restaurants and lounges, and all the facilities expected of one of the world’s best accommodations. The massive lobby is decorated in the style of a rustic lodge, but the rooms couldn’t be more different. Each is elegantly furnished and offers great mountain views.

© Andrew Hempstead, from Moon Western Canada, 3rd Edition