Ski! The 2,500 acres of pristine slopes of Copper Mountain steepen naturally from west to east, with the elevation topping out at 3,800 metres (with a 835-metre vertical drop). Despite the calibre of skiing that goes on there, you still find green runs at the top of the mountain, allowing for groups of varying skill to actually spend the day together; the experienced don’t have to say goodbye to the beginners at the bottom of the hill. Expect breath-taking views and perfectly groomed runs.

Play! With one million guests a year, this resort plays host to all crowds, international and local—family, college and otherwise. A quaint and very manageable centre village is full of après ski fun in the form of skating, zip-lining, big drinks and tiny doughnuts. And after the ski hill does you in, an hour (or two) on the four-lane tubing hill will bring out your inner child, and make beer time all the more rewarding.

MORE HILLS: STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

Jump! The indoor Woodward at Copper Barn facility, an indoor year-round training ground with Olympic-grade trampolines, you can play away with foam pits, a skate bowl, ramps, jumps, the works. It’s worth a visit if only to watch the cool kids do their thing on mountain bikes and skateboards, or see aerialists practice their jumps. An intro session will see you on the trampoline for a couple of hours with a coach.

Hydrate! There’s only one hiccup to being up in the clouds so high: It’s all fun and games until somebody gets altitude sickness. Common after 8,000 feet above sea level, this ailment leaves you feeling like you have the flu or a hangover or both. Two litres of water before noon is almost mandatory, and throw in the odd Gatorade to feel sporty. Speaking of drinks, you will also notice that one vodka can actually feel more like two vodkas. Bonus! You’re a cheaper date than you thought!

Rest! Copper Mountain has a sort of communal reception for accommodation, where they then mete you out to the various lodges surrounding the centre village, each with underground parking. Chalet-type furnishings (log lamps, Murphy beds) are comfortable and cool. Each lodge is equipped with a large outdoor hot tub, but sadly no time machine.

Drink! You can’t throw a stone and not hit a drink of something in this place. The college kids favour Mulligans Irish Pub because it stays open the latest, while the older set goes east to JJ’s Rocky Mountain Tavern, which will most likely have live music.

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Vibe: Nita Lake Lodge is the real Whistler, complete with a full-service spa and outdoor hot tubs. The resort caters to an upscale international crowd, who show up year-round to take advantage of the scenery, the sports and the spa, usually all three. Vancouverites come for a relaxing overnight or two, and the locals pop in for lunch, cocktails and dinner, taking advantage of the indoor/outdoor lounge and restaurant.

Rooms: Simple but sumptuous chalet style and efficiency dominates the décor of the 77 large rooms, all with king-size beds and gas fireplaces with basalt mantels. Expect leather furniture, dark wood, big cupboards and textured furnishings. Kitchenettes are equipped with a microwave, fridge and sink, with bathrooms sporting soaker tubs, heated floors, a rainhead shower and a ton of vanity space.

F&B: Aura Restaurant is calm and comfortable, full of Canadian art framing an open kitchen that turns out French with a West Coast twist. Comfort food reigns here: squash risotto, roasted cod and seared scallops, braised short ribs, burrata and tomato salad, and PEI lobster. A smaller menu from the same kitchen is offered next door at Cure Lounge & Patio to complement its cocktails, craft beers and BC wines. And Fix Café features gourmet grab-and-go goodies for early risers or those in need of a caffeine fix or picnic fixings.

Extras: The spa is the perfect spot to while away the après hours, rejuvenating tired muscles in one of the outdoor hot tubs, the heated outdoor pool or the steam room, all co-ed. Treatments run the gamut, from body treatments to hydrating facials, and include a new cellulite-reducing laser treatment. There’s nothing like an outdoor hot tub on a cold day after a big hike or afternoon of skiing. An independent full gym keeps both locals and guests in top form. A nail bar will set you up with a manicure and a mini bottle of Champagne.

READ MORE ABOUT: THE SPA

Off-Site: Just a 10-minute drive via the free shuttle from Whistler Village, Nita Lake Lodge is on the outskirts of all the action but close enough to still be convenient: The Creekside Gondola is 500 metres away. The resort also abuts the Valley Trail, a 44-kilometre paved path for hiking and biking. The lake is two seconds away.

Rate: $$$
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