PATRICK DINEEN
From Saturday's Globe and Mail Published on Friday, Nov. 27, 2009 2:02PM EST Last updated on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009 2:29AM EST
SKI FREE IN B.C.
The buy Two of the Okanagan Valley's top ski areas, Big White and Silver Star, are offering free skiing through Dec. 17.
The savings As much as $71 a day compared with the regular lift tickets.
The catch This is valid for two-night minimum stays on new bookings only and is based on double occupancy in select hotel rooms, select one- and two-bedroom (and more) condos, and is also valid based on quad occupancy in select three- or four-bedroom (and more) condominiums and vacation homes.
Why it's worth it The B.C. interior is known for its light, dry powder, with more than 750 centimetres falling annually at Big White near Kelowna, Canada's largest totally ski-in, ski-out resort village. Near Vernon is Silver Star, with a village inspired by a typical 19th-century British Columbia mining town. Brightly coloured store fronts and boarded sidewalks provide a unique ambience at this ski resort.
Book it Visit www.BigWhite.com or call 1-800-663-2772; visit www.SkiSilverStar.com or call 1-800-663-4431.
$5 EASTERN TOWNSHIPS
The buy Mont Sutton in Quebec's Eastern Townships is starting its 50th season of operation this year with a price from yesteryear – $5 for a lift ticket.
The savings The usual rate is $58 a day.
The catch This price is available only on Dec. 17, but the resort does offer a Ski-Snooze-Ski package from $75 Mondays through Thursdays (except for Dec. 21 through Jan. 1), which includes one night's stay, breakfast and 11/2 days skiing; or two nights, two breakfasts and 21/2 days skiing from $139.
Why it's worth it This resort appeals to all levels of skiers and boarders with three different areas for each skill level: expert, intermediate and beginner. This year, to better meet the needs of kids and other beginners, the resort has packaged several elements and created new services all in one family area.
Book it Visit montsutton.com/promotions for more information.
ONE NIGHT FREE IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
The buy The four inns that are the founding members of GraniteStateVacations.com are offering a third-night-free New Hampshire Winter Adventure package.
The savings One-third off regular rates plus discounts on ski-lift tickets.
The catch The package is available now through April. Some blackout dates apply.
Why it's worth it The package includes three nights' lodging for the regular price of two nights; full breakfast each morning; and afternoon aprè-ski treats including hot cocoa, cider, tea and cookies. Discounted lift tickets (which aren't part of the package price) are available at each inn for Ragged Mountain Resort, Pats Peak and Mount Sunapee. The package (for all three nights) is priced from $210 for the Blue Acorn Inn, from $220 for Henniker House Bed and Breakfast, from $270 for the Rosewood Country Inn, and from $314 for the Highland Lake Inn, based on double occupancy.
Book it For more information and to make a reservation, visit www.granitestatevacations.com.
SKI AND STAY IN WHISTLER FOR $103
The buy Whistler Blackcomb has early-season savings with two nights' lodging and a two-day lift ticket from $103 per person per night.
The savings The regular daily lift ticket in season is $91, so the accommodation is almost free.
The catch It is valid for arrivals through Dec. 21.
Why it's worth it Not only do you get a chance to try out some runs you'll see in the Olympics in February, Whistler Blackcomb has received more than triple its average November snowfall of 148 centimetres (58 inches). Earlier this week, 530 cm had been recorded, so conditions are fantastic at a time when the slopes aren't crowded.
Book it Visit www.whistlerblackcomb.com or call 1-888-403-4727.
Special to The Globe and Mail
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