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My love affair with Whistler Mountain has gone on for a number of years, and during every rendezvous with her virgin white powder peaks, my pulse palpitates, my adrenaline soars, and my heart flutters.

By uniting with her Blackcomb soul mate, the compatible couple renders over seven thousand and seventy one skiable acres including twelve magnificent bowls, three glaciers, and more than two hundred gloriously groomed trails. Although their loyal wintertime cloak lures millions of lovers like myself, during this recent summertime visit, I discover that this at this world famous resort's warm weather pleasures are equally satisfying.

I saunter through the quaint alpine village, where intimate restaurants, trendy clothing stores and charming gift shops flank the interconnecting brick-paved walkways. Musicians and magicians join other talented artists to provide ongoing entertainment, and from my ringside seat I soak in the beauty that embraces their performances. Majestic background peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb set the perfect stage as they kiss sunny skies and mile high manicured runs wrap the mountain contours like grey silk scarves.

Although not clad in ski attire or buckled boots, my heart later skips a beat when the familiar high-speed gondola whisks me over adventurous summer terrain hosting hikers, bikers and the occasional black bear. From my ever-escalating perch I have a bird's eye view of the miniature village far below. Hugging up to its pristine perimeters are championship golf greens, crystal clear lakes, and fabulous five star hotels such as The Westin Resort & Spa.

Shimmering in splendour, the hotel's dual towers of exquisite granite and cedar meld harmoniously with Whistler's foundation. Architectural delights have been extended indoors to where the ultimate in luxury, intimacy, and impeccable service is provided. Attention to detail has been given to all four hundred and nineteen sumptuous suites, where fireplaces flicker, soaker tubs soothe and Heavenly beds divinely live up to their name. Treatments at the resort's eight thousand square foot Avello spa effectively transcend the mind, body and soul, and culinary masters boast award-winning creations at The Aubergine Grille and FireRock Lounge. It comes as no surprise that this Whistler wonder has been rated the number one ski resort hotel in North America by Condé Nast Traveler for 2000, as well as being honoured with the AAA Four-Diamond award for 2001.

From Whistler's 7494-foot pinnacle, the air is clear and harmony literally abounds. Although there's no familiar moguls to dodge or powder chutes to challenge at this time of year, the familiar landscape undeniably tugs at my heartstrings. Offering breathtaking beauty, exquisite accommodations, delectable dining and the world class adventure, how could one not fall in love with North America's favorite playground?

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