Whistler is well-known as a great year-round destination. In the winter months it is one of the worlds great ski resorts, with over 8000 acres of groomed runs and an incomparable range of off-piste runs limited only by your skill and nerve. During the winter the accommodation of choice is generally going to be either a ski-in, ski-out townhome or an apartment in the Village or within walking distance of it. A very few (and highly sought-after) properties fulfill both these conditions, but most of the accommodation is in one or other category.

In the summer, however, the most desirable lodging may be elsewhere. Slopeside properties that offer ski-in, ski-out but are a good way up the mountain are fabulous during the winter but not so great in the summer except for the mountain biking fraternity for whom they may become bike-in, bike-out. As a result these condos which command a terrific premium during the winter are often available at very discounted rates in the summer. You may be able to pick up a 4-5 bedroom 2200 sq. ft townhome which commands $2000 a night at New Year for $4-500 per night. It will be beautifully furnished and have great views; the only drawback is that it is a bit of a hike up the hill if you are on foot.

Properties in the Village are still very desirable during the summer, especially those with swimming pools. Look for Northstar at Stony Creek or Glaciers Reach. However, be warned that these units are small and fairly cheaply-built. Theyre good if you will be spending most of the time outdoors (and why else would you come to Whistler?), but not great for extended time inside. If you want a better condo with access to a swimming pool which is still near the Village, go for Montebello. These are 3-4 bedroom, 3-bathroom luxury townhomes which have access to the swimming pool at the Whistler Tennis Club. If swimming is your thing, a great location to know is the far end of Blackcomb Way, near the path to Lost Lake. Lost Lake is a fabulous, warm lake with a great gently shelving sandy beach and several mid-lake platforms for resting or sunbathing. If naturism is your thing there is also a nudist jetty at the far end of the lake. Great developments near to Lost Lake include Forest Creek and The Woods.

Another excellent summer location is Blueberry Hill. This is an area which doesnt attract much attention in the winter, since it is not ski-in, ski-out, but it is a great summer location, overlooking the golf course and very near to Alta Lake, which is fantastic for both swimming and (non-motorised) boating. Finally you might also think about Nicklaus North, which is on another golf course (Whistler is full of them), and features some truly splendid homes, very spacious and with great views.

Wherever you decide to stay, dont miss out on Whistler in the summertime. The locals saying is that you come here for the winter, but you stay for the summer. You can find a selection of Whistler lodging on this link, including online pricing and availability capability.