Ski Retreats
If you are looking for something a little different, somewhere away from the crowds where you can relax and enjoy a pristine mountain environment in winter, then we know a couple of little hideaways.
Our favourite is the Callaghan Backcountry Lodge near Whistler in Canada.
Callaghan Backcountry Lodge
The great thing about this Lodge is that although it is a true wilderness location, it is only 35km from Whistler so you can add a few days of peace and quiet in the backcountry either before, or after your holiday in Whistler with ease.
The Lodge is located in a high bowl, surrounded by craggy peaks and ice fields. It is a pristine environment and one which receives huge quantities of the best quality snow there is.
The Lodge manages its own cross-country trails that leave from the door (keen cross-country skiers can ski to the lodge from the operation's base area), equipment is provided. Snow shoes are also available and there are a number of circular routes suitable for all abilities. For backcountry skiers guides are available to help you explore the snowladen terrain surrounding the Lodge - for good skiers a day or two 'earning your turns' in deep snow will be up there with your best ski days ever.
For many, however, the Lodge is just about getting away from it all, enjoying the peace and quiet and soaking up the wilderness. It is a beautiful place to just take time out and relax with a book by the fire.
The journey out to the Lodge - either by snowcoach or snowmobile - is an adventure in itself. Once there you will be welcomed by the Lodge staff. The Lodge is designed to be comfortable rather than luxurious. Rooms range from basic cabin-style rooms to double rooms with a private bathroom. There is a superb master suite.
The chef prepares a variety of hearty meals to both tantalise your palate and give you the energy you need to an active day! All lunches are 3 courses, dinners are 4 courses.
A variety of packages are available - please ask for more details and prices. The most popular packages are as follows:
Classic Canadian Snow Play Day
A day of fun in the snow - you can cross country ski, snowshoe, spend the afternoon on the tobogganing hill, build a snow fort or have a snowball fight. Afterwards, relax in the warmth and comfort of the lodge.
Trips depart from Whistler Village (pick up from hotel) at 8:30am and return at approximately 4:30pm. Prices are based on a minimum group size of 2 people for snow coach and snowmobile trips and 3 people for trips involving helicopter transportation.
Package includes:
- Return ground transfers from Whistler Village
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Return snowmobile, snow coach or helicopter transfers to Callaghan Lodge
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Savory 3-course lunch, snacks, non-alcoholic beverages (coffee, tea, juice, hot chocolate)
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Complimentary use of snowshoes, XC skis and toboggans
- 1-hour guided snowshoe tour or cross country ski
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Sn
owmobile helmet and goggles (if snowmobiling)
Classic Canadian Winter Cabin Party
A fun-filled overnight in the wilderness complete with a 4-course feast. Enjoy the snow in whichever way you choose and have a bonfire on the shores of a frozen alpine lake. Once back at the lodge play pool, settle in for an all-night poker game, or sink into one of our comfy overstuffed couches with a good book and a night cap.
Trips departs from Whistler Village at 4:00pm and return at approximately 12:00pm the following day. A minimum of 4 people are required.
Package includes:
- Return ground transfers from Whistler
- Snowmobile (double riding), snow coach or helicopter transfers to Callaghan Lodge (depending on access option selected)
- Delicious 4-course West Coast dinner, snacks, continental breakfast, non-alcoholic beverages (coffee, tea, juice, hot chocolate)
- Complimentary use of snowshoes, XC skis and toboggans
- Complimentary toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, toothpaste, tooth brush)
- Complimentary flannel pajamas
Packages can also be tailored to your requirements and other options such as dog-sledding can be included .
Overnight trips all include return ground transfers from Whistler, return snowmobile or snow coach transfers to the lodge, all meals, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, snowshoes and cross country skis. Overnight stays are for over 13s only.
Weddings, Special Occasions and Corporate Retreats
Sleeping 18, with an incredible setting, the Lodge is an ideal location for a wedding, a celebration of a special occasion, or a corporate retreat. With the place to yourself, you can do exactly what you want and share what will be a fantastic experience. Please ask for further details.
Click here to view more photos of the Callaghan Backcountry Lodge