Delivering true Canadiana in a myriad of forms, Nita Lake Lodge is one of the top three resorts in town. It combines sexy chalet-style, a laidback vibe, top-notch dining and hillside convenience in one seamless package. The fact it is a hangout for locals, too, lends it even more authenticity. This is the real Whistler, complete with a full-service spa and outdoor hot tubs.

Street cred: It’s all about location

Just a 10-minute drive on a free shuttle from Whistler Village, the lodge is on the outskirts of all the action, but close enough to still be convenient. The Creekside Gondola is a three-minute walk away. The resort also abuts the Valley Trail, a 27-mile paved path for hiking and biking. Nita Lake itself is just two seconds away.

Who hangs here: Is this hotel for you?

The resort caters to an upscale international crowd who show up year-round to take advantage of the scenery, the sports and the spa–usually all three. Vancouverites come for a relaxing night or two and the locals pop in for lunch, cocktails and dinner, taking advantage of the indoor/outdoor lounge and restaurant.

The straight goods: What’s in the room?

Simple but sumptuous chalet style and efficiency dominate the décor of the 77 large rooms, all with king-size beds and gas fireplaces with mantels made from basalt stone. Expect leather furniture, dark woods, generously sized cupboards and textured furnishings. Kitchenettes are equipped with a microwave, fridge and sink, with bathrooms sporting soaker tubs, heated floors, a rainhead shower and a ton of vanity space to accommodate all of your stuff.

Bragging rights: What else has it got?

The spa is the perfect spot to while away the après hours, rejuvenating tired muscles in one of the outdoor hot tubs, the heated outdoor pool or the steam room, all co-ed. Treatments run the gamut from body care to hydrating facials and include a new cellulite-reducing laser treatment. There’s nothing more blissful than soaking in an outdoor hot tub on a cold day after a big hike or an afternoon of skiing.

Good eats: Cocktails and cuisine

Aura Restaurant is calm and relaxing, full of Canadian art framing an open kitchen that turns out French cuisine with a West Coast twist, created under the watchful eye of executive chef James Olberg. Comfort food reigns here: squash risotto, roasted cod and seared scallops, braised short ribs, burrata and tomato salad, and PEI lobster. A smaller menu from the same kitchen is offered next door at Cure Lounge & Patio to complement its lineup of cocktails, craft beers and wines from British Columbia. Meanwhile, the Fix Café features gourmet grab-and-go goodies for early risers or those in need of a caffeine fix or picnic fixings.

A few of our favorite things: What stood out?

An independent full gym keeps both locals and guests in top form. The monthly yoga class from Loka Yoga’s Tina James Pashmuti is well worth booking.

Parting shot: If we could change one thing

Room décor feels a bit too plain and could do with a pop or two of color.

Standard rooms from US$150. Breakfast not included.

Doug was a guest of the hotel during his stay. The hotel had no editorial input for this review.

(Photos courtesy of Nita Lake Lodge)