By Neil English
Acres of awesome skiing, stunning natural scenery and lots to do for non-skiers too - Canada offers wonderful winter fun for just about everyone. Here are five of our favourite resorts.
Fun for everyone at Banff
Who can do it? Skiers and non-skiers alike! Let's go: Western Canada's most visited town offers far more than just skiing. On the white stuff there's snowmobiling, snow-shoeing and dog sledding and even if you don't hit the piste, you can ride the Banff Gondola for awesome views across spectacular National Park scenery. In town, you have some 100 restaurants and bars to explore, museums and galleries galore and a wealth of tourist boutiques for great shopping. Or how about a soak in the town's hot springs? The Fairmont Banff Springs has a lovely spa. Sunshine is the biggest nearby ski resort with terrain for all. Closer but far smaller Norquay overlooks the town but is worth a visit.
Top tip: One evening head to Wild Bill's for live, loud country and western music... and some get-on-down line dancing!
Spectacular scenery at Lake Louise
Who can do it? Couples who want romance and great skiing. Let's go: The view over Lake Louise from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel to the towering ice fields of the Victoria Glacier is the most spectacular in Canada - quite breathtaking. And what could be more romantic than skating on the lake with the mountains towering around you? Coupled with the most vast and handsome skiing mountains in North America, the fabulous scenery and the resort's refined, friendly atmosphere make this winter gem a destination resort in its own right.
Top tip: Take a large capacity memory card for your camera – you will need it!
Amazing skiing at Whistler
Who can do it? Skiers and boarders of all abilities. Let's go: Together with myriad improvements made here for the 2010 Winter Olympics, the completion this year of the Peak to Peak cable car properly linking the- until now separate - skiable mountains of Whistler and Blackcomb, will make this winter sports mecca the biggest and best ski resort in North America. Suffice to say, this is a must visit destination for anyone who likes the feel of fresh snow under their skis or their board. And if you're a serious ski-freak, try the heli-skiing - head spinning stuff!
Top tip: Japanese food lovers should head for Kyoto quality sake, sushi and sashimi at Sushi Village.
Royalty and wildlife at Jasper
Who can do it? Beginners, cross country skiers and wildlife fans. Lets go: Jasper's downhill ski area is fairly modest, but it's ideal for beginners wanting to hone their skills and the setting in the centre of Jasper National Park, with its dramatic panorama and free roaming wildlife, is picture-book perfect. Cross country skiing here is some of the most rewarding in North America with a mix of forested areas and wide open views creating an experience many describe as “good for the soul”. A daytrip to hauntingly beautiful Maligne Canyon is a must for non-skiiers and if you're feeling a little adventurous how about trying an ice canyon walk?
Top tip: Stay in lovely lodge-style accommodation at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge hotel where the Queen and Prince Philip spent their honeymoon.
Family fun at Tremblant
Who can do it? Families with younger children. Let's go: This former local ski hill has become the place to ski in eastern Canada The purpose-built village is themed on colourful, old Quebec with cobbled pedestrianised streets and French-style cafes in public squares, all creating a charming, Disneyesque appearance which kids will love. The ski area comprises three good terrain parks and runs are well spread out to disperse weekend crowds, great for beginners and junior skiers. Good restaurants are plentiful and whether skiing or in the village, it's almost impossible to get lost, perfect if you have ski-kids in tow.
Top tip: Send the little ones to the highly reputed day care Kids Club and head for some proper adult-only pampering in the excellent Spa Scandinavie with opulent saunas, pools, outdoor hot tubs and waterfalls.
If hitting the slopes in Canada seems like the perfect winter holiday for you, check out the latest VHOT ski deals
Neil English is a freelance travel journalist who specialises in skiing. He regularly writes for the Daily Mail and the Mail on Sunday.