July 2019

The BC Interior ski resorts include Big White, Silver Star, and Sun Peaks. Each of these mountain resorts are unique in their own right, however all share the same great lightweight floaty powder and family friendly features in resort. Our team of Ski Specialists have tried and tested all of these resorts, and together we’ve created a shortlist of a few of our favourite features.

Family Skiing Silver Star

Silver Star Mountain Resort - Credit: Destination BC/Andrew Strain

A Favourite for Families

All three resorts are great choices for a family ski holiday. The family-friendly atmosphere is helped by the convenience of ski-in/ski-out slopeside hotels and condos, unbeatable ski schools and fantastic resort amenities including tubing parks and ice skating rinks. Our clients love Sun Peaks because it feels so safe, the kids can roam the shops and even ski or tube at night, while parents can watch from the restaurant or hotel. There's also a winter programme of family events every season including horse-drawn sleighs through the village.

Silver Star Mountain Resort - Credit: Destination BC/Blake Jorgenson

Great Inclines & No Lines

Between Sun Peaks, SilverStar and Big White, there’s a huge variety of skiing on offer. If you’re looking for advanced skiing, Sun Peaks has the 2nd largest ski area in Canada, a great mix of terrain, and has an extensive range of backcountry skiing. Meanwhile, Big White has a great selection of beginner runs and easy skiing to enjoy. The Interior BC ski resorts are generally lesser known, and so don’t see large crowds, perfect for making the most of the snow.

Sun Peaks Ski Resort - Credit: Destination BC/Reuben Krabbe

Rest Easy

Between the three resorts you’ll find accommodation to suit any group size or budget. Most of the accommodation is ski-in/ski-out so you can relax in no time after a hard day on the slopes. Sun Peaks' Orient chairlift opened last season and means beginners can ski from 1,525m into the East Village and main village accommodation unhindered. When visiting Big White, be sure to stay at the Stonegate Resort. Located right in the heart of the village, you’ll find large stone fireplaces and private hot tubs on the decking of every room. Ultimate luxury!

Stonegate Resort - Big White

Need a Break from the Slopes? Explore Local Activities & Attractions

Each resort has a whole host of activities on offer, and so whether you’re 7 or 70, you’ll find something to keep you busy if you decide to give your legs a break for the day. If you’re staying at Silver Star, you can head down to Pinheads Bowling Alley, the Climbing Wall at the National Altitude Training Centre, or bring the kids to the mini snowmobile track located beside Brewer’s Pond and Tube Town Adventure Park. Big White also has a huge range of activities on offer. From dog sledding to snowshoeing, climbing a 60ft ice tower to taking wine tours to taste some of the regions famous bottles. There's plenty to keep the whole group occupied. For anyone less confident on their skis try out the Snow-Limo at Sun Peaks. Designed and built by Snow-Limo Mountain Touring, it provides a unique opportunity for non-skiers to glide down some of the downhill ski runs in a controlled sit-ski with a trained and experienced chauffeur-guide.

Unique Dining Experiences

Partake in one of Sun Peaks Resort’s signature events, Alpine Fondue and Starlight Descent. The evening begins with a trip up the chair to the Sunburst Restaurant, followed by a delightful fondue with live music to entertain. The menu includes a huge variety of meats, seafood, breads and vegetables, with a chocolate fondue and fresh fruit to finish. After the meal, you’ll then cruise down the torch lit slopes of the 5 mile ski run along with a guide.

Unbeatable Powder

Located in the beautiful interior of BC, Okanagan Valley ski resorts boasts some of the very best winter conditions in Canada with mild temperatures, fine, dry snow and abundant blue skies. With an annual snowfall between 20-25 feet, you’ll experience the light, fluffy powder that BC Interior has to offer.

Big White Ski Resort - Credit: Destination BC/Andrew Strain

Local Après

British Columbia is building a reputation as a paradise for craft beer lovers with new breweries popping up all over the province. Whether you’re after a refreshing IPA or a complex winter ale to complement a hard day of skiing, there’s plenty to choose from. There’s also a handful of wineries local to the area, you can visit these over the summer months. In the winter season you can celebrate at the annual Sun Peaks Winter Okanagan Wine Festival, which offers a 2 week schedule of skiing and wine tasting.

Paradise Camp Restaurant at Silver Star Mountain Resort

Paradise Camp Restaurant at Silver Star Mountain Resort - Credit: Credit: Destination BC/Blake Jorgenson

Bonus Tip: Look out for Ogopogo

If you’re by Okanagan Lake be sure to look out for Ogopogo, a lake monster who is rumoured to live within the lake, and has been spotted various times since the 19th Century. The Loch Ness Monster’s Canadian cousin perhaps?  

With first-hand knowledge and first-class customer service, we will create your perfect Canadian ski holiday itinerary. For your tailor-made quotation speak to a Ski Specialist on 0131 243 8097, use the live chat feature on our website, or submit an enquiry online.

Big White Ski Resort - Credit: Destination BC/Blake Jorgenson

Snowboarder at Silver Star - Credit: Destination BC/Ben Giesbrecht