Olympic Digs a Great Place to Stay
Surrounded by the scenic Cheakamus Valley and with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, Whistler’s Athletes’ Village is a model of sustainable living and a significant Olympic legacy for Whistler’s residents and visitors.
During the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, athletes competing in Nordic, alpine and sliding events are calling Whistler’s Athletes’ Village home. After the Games, these spiffy digs will become the new Hostelling International-Whistler hostel, a high-performance athlete training centre and the Cheakamus Crossing residential community just for Whistler locals. Both residents and visitors alike will sleep in the same rooms that were once occupied by medal-winning athletes during the Games.
Whistler boasts some of the very best accommodation, including the iconic and luxurious Fairmont Chateau Whistler. Whether you’re looking for great value or decadent luxury, there are lots of options to choose from. For those on a tight budget, the new Whistler hostel is the perfect choice for modern and comfy lodging with lots of amenities.
Opening July 1, 2010, shared rooms in peak season are expected to cost just $35 CAD per night. With an on-site café, internet access, laundry, linens, TV lounge and games room, kitchen, dining room, outdoor patio and BBQ deck, fireplace and state-of-the-art ski/snowboard/bike storage, you’ll feel right at home. The current and longstanding Hostelling International-Whistler location on Alta Lake offers 25 beds while this brand new facility has 180 beds, both in shared and private rooms.
Surrounded by Whistler’s spectacular natural beauty, the hostel also borders Whistler’s Interpretive Forest, and has direct access to the Sea to Sky Trail.
Given its amazing surrounds, environmentally-friendly design took the lead in the development of the Athletes’ Village. For example, steep slopes and wetlands were protected and maintained, a sophisticated storm water management system was installed, radiant hot water systems were utilized, energy efficient lighting was installed, low-flow plumbing fixtures and dual flush toilets minimize water consumption up to 50 per cent, formaldehyde-free interior wood products were used and 90 per cent of the aggregate used in construction originated from waste material on-site.
Earning the distinction of Gold Level Certified under the new LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Neighbourhood Development rating system, Whistler’s Athletes’ Village sets the highest standards in green neighbourhood design.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed for the night, a luxurious getaway, a family-friendly retreat or eco-friendly accommodation that fits your budget, Whistler’s range of lodging has something for everyone. So strap on your sense of adventure and make your way to Whistler. Your perfect home-away-from-home is waiting for you.
