Raintree at Whiski Jack, Whistler at the Westin Resort & Spa

We stayed at the Westin for three nights in early September and could not have been more pleased with a hotel. Firstly, we were in a 1 bedroom, which is one of the newly refurbished quiet rooms in the east tower. It was a suite with main living area (with fully-equipped kitchen, dining area and lounge), bathroom and separate bedroom. The sofa was a sofabed and there was also a small balcony. Secondly, we had booked the hotel as part of a tour from our base in Vancouver through the official Whistler tourist agency, along with a return trip on the Whistler Mountaineer train. The whole thing was amazing value. The bedroom was compact, but had lots of storage space, so nothing was left lying around. A large flat screen TV is provided at the foot of the bed, along with another in the main lounge area. The bed was queen size and amply equipped with pillows. The bathroom was also great. A nice-size tub and separate shower enclosure were a real luxury. The air extraction was superb - nothing stayed misted up! With the kitchen, dining and lounge area all combined, the suite felt roomy and spacious, definitely a plus for a longer stay. I have to say that the Westin was far nicer than the Hilton, which is right next door. The reception area at the Westin is lovely - huge and welcoming with large sofas, fireplace and iced water always available. Our tour pick-up was from the Hilton, which seemed small and cramped in comparison. The pool area was the best I have encountered at any hotel - its a swim-out heated indoor/outdoor pool, with indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, steam sauna and a scenic exercise area - all with mountain views. Beware the other hotels whose pools look out over the highway (eg the Best Western). Guest changing was clean and towels provided. Our room was quiet - we did not hear any noise at all from outside and only a little in the lounge area from the room next door (which housed some tired-sounding kids at one point). With a separate bedroom, neighbour noise is not an issue. The hotel is not really geared up for feeding its guests, although there is a restaurant on-site. With Whistler Village right there on the doorstep (5 mins walk), you don't need anything else and of course, all meals can be prepared in the room or brought up by room service. We would highly recommend this hotel and could not fault even one small thing about our stay.