It’s early April and spring has well and truly sprung in British Columbia. There is zero snow on the ground on the three-hour drive from Vancouver to Whistler; in fact, cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The only sign of white stuff is on the peaks of the Coast Mountain Range off in the distance. I’m thinking, why have I made this long trek to snowboard at Whistler at this time of year?

But when I check into the Four Seasons Resort, the temperature is hovering just above freezing. A fire rages in a large stone fireplace in the lobby, and I’m served hot apple cider. The hotel, tucked away in the northern end of Blackcomb Village, is just a five-minute walk from the bottom of Blackcomb Mountain. Designed as a modern twist on a traditional mountain lodge, it feels more boutique than big chain.