Highway 99 cuts a winding picturesque swath through some of the most rugged terrain in the province of British Columbia, Canada. At various points the road is so narrow, only the suspended railway line separates the pavement from the cold northern waters of the Pacific Ocean below.

Nestled at the foot of Blackcomb and Whistler Mountains, the charming pedestrian-only village of Whistler lies approximately 75 miles north of Vancouver on the west shore of Canada's mainland.

Much of the landscape will be forever changed with the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Signs of the impending impact on this quaint region are already in evidence. Construction crews work round the clock at several stations on the highway, widening the road to allow for two lanes of traffic on both sides. Once complete, the drive into Whistler should be less time consuming, and hopefully, with good planning, equally as scenic.

By offering a new level of alpine chic, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts have put their stamp on what is arguably the finest ski destination in North America. With several of Canada's elite hotel and resort chains already occupying space in the village, the newest full-service resort is now open for business.

Built as a nine story contemporary lodge, the Four Seasons Resort Whistler redefines the art of resort relaxation. Multi-hued grey and brown brick, with taupe colored siding and dark shingles, stands in harmonious relief against the panoramic backdrop that is the Canadian Rockies.

From the moment we entered the main gate and arrived under the large cedar canopy entrance by way of the interlocking brick driveway, there was a sense that my only responsibility while staying at the resort was to unwind and enjoy the days ahead.

The hotel has of 242 rooms, including 95 suites, 34 offering two bedroom accommodations. All rooms are oversized and provide the added comfort and warmth of a gas-burning fireplace.

I was accommodated in an executive suite; 775 sq. ft of luxury living accented in muted colors of beige and brown with deep, rich wood raised paneling covering the fireplace surround.

A pull out sofa bed sleeps two, with an additional ¾ bathroom off the front entrance. A leather covered wing back chair with ottoman provides the perfect place to relax and enjoy the 32-inch television and entertainment system provided in the living room.

High-speed internet access is available in every room of the hotel. A well-defined elegant wood desk offers the perfect place to get some work done, or to write a quick postcard and let everyone know how much you really wish they were there. Rounding out the accoutrements, a mini-bar with sink, granite top and mirrored shelving opens to the living room. Basking in the glow of a warm fire, it's impossible to escape the breathtaking vista that surrounds the Four Seasons Resort Whistler.

Large windows in both the bedroom and living room, in addition to a walk out balcony, provide the ideal place to relax in the evening, or if one is fortunate, witness the Aurora Borealis dancing a kaleidoscope of green and red in the early morning light.

The bedroom hosts a king-size bed with an overstuffed duvet and large down filled pillows, (non-allergenic pillows are available upon request). Thick terry bathrobes add a welcome touch to the restful décor of the room and the entertainment unit houses a second TV and numerous drawers for clothing.

A double-sided, walk-through closet equipped with a built-in safe acts as the entrance to the main bathroom off the master suite. Here ceramic tile and granite are the order of the day; with dual sinks, a full size bathtub and an all glass, two-person shower providing a privileged experience.

Whistler is, of course, first and foremost a skiing and snowboarding village. But world class golf facilities, including the infamous Nicklaus North championship course, have introduced many visitors to it's year round charm. Also available are spring, summer and fall activities that include downhill mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, tennis, river rafting and hiking to name a few.

For those whose passion burns brightest when winter's chill reigns supreme, the list of things to do is endless.