Whistler or Beirut for a Trip of Adventure

I love to travel to destinations filled with the promise of exciting energy and action-packed adventure. Whistler and Beirut are two sensational places brimming with outdoor activities, vibrant character and so much to explore. A visit to either of these destinations is sure to leave any visitor invigorated. So how do they differ when comparing the two?

Scenery / Activities

Whistler and Beirut may seem like two wildly different places and an unusual comparison to make. Whilst one is a small resort town in British Columbia, the other is an exciting capital in Lebanon. Though, only an hour’s drive from the city of Beirut, visitors can head up into the mountains to the ski resort of Faraya.

In both Whistler and Faraya, visitors will enjoy the striking mountain scenery as they ski through the winter and hike through the summer.

Head to the Beirut Souks or take a stroll through history with a Beirut Old City Walk guided tour. Experience the Byzantine beauty of the Beiteddine Palace, where courtyards, fountains and mosaics make it something out of a fairy tale.

Meanwhile, the Whistler Blackcomb ski resort is home to two impressive ski mountains: Whistler, and Blackcomb. Renowned for its world-class skiing, with hundreds of trails both on and off-piste, and plenty of snowfall each year, Whistler is a powder lover’s paradise. In the summer the resort is a haven for mountain biking, lake swimming and hiking enthusiasts.

Visit during August for the Crankworx Festival to really see the town in action, or hike some of the most beautiful trails in the world in the Garibaldi Provincial Park.

For something more relaxing, book a treatment at the Scandinavian Spa, or marvel at the regional works in the Audain Art Museum. Stroll through the Valley Lumina Forest trail and discover the magic of the trees in this enchanting light show.

Though the skiing is incredible, Whistler is a small town that leads the way in laid back ski bum style.

Whilst Faraya has Beirut, Vancouver is a two-hour drive from Whistler, down the sea to sky highway, for those looking for a little more city action.

It’s all up hill from here!

When it comes to the mountains Whistler wins this round with 9.5/10, as a world-renowned resort, with Vancouver not too far away. Beirut’s Faraya is a 7/10, where the focus is on the scenery more than the skiing, but with the fantastic city of Beirut so nearby, the final score is 9/10.

Food and Restaurants

Both Whistler and Beirut have an array of dining options, perfect for when adventuring enhances your appetite. From affordable eateries, and cosy cafes to high-end restaurants and Michelin-starred dining there is something to satisfy every kind of craving.

Whilst Whistler boasts plenty of casual dining options, with popular Canadian pub classics such as nachos, wings, and waffle fries served in every bar, this popular resort town also has some fantastic high-end restaurants. The Red Door serves sumptuous dishes and an impressive wine list in a cosy and intimate setting, whilst Rim Rock Café is an enduring favourite with locals and tourists alike. For the foodies, book a table at Alta Bistro and enjoy an innovative menu serving elevated dishes and award-winning wines.

Beirut wins this round for me with a score of 9/10 with a varied and high-end food scene, and Whistler 7.5/10 for easy eateries to fuel your holiday of adventure.

Book your trip to Whistler or Beirut with JourneyHero!

Nightlife

An action-packed holiday is complete when the day’s adventures are matched by night, and both Whistler and Beirut have plenty of after-hours options.

Beirut is the party capital of Lebanon, with world-class DJs, elegant bars, and happening clubs. Dance the night away at B018 and watch the sunrise from their rooftop if you make it until morning. Enjoy drinks at Beirut’s highest rooftop bar, Level 26 or enjoy handcrafted cocktails and sunset views at Iris Beirut. Head to the Sporting Beach Club to hang out with Beirut’s elite crowd and enjoy swish drinks and a fabulous atmosphere.

Meanwhile, Whistler leads a more laid-back approach to the evening. After a day filled with action, the afternoon’s après bars are a good place to kick back and enjoy a well-earned beer.

Enjoy an afternoon drink by the outdoor fire pit at Dubh Linn Gate, or dance to the DJs at the Longhorn Saloon.

If the day’s activities haven’t worn you down, hit the dance floor with the locals at Garfunkel’s or play pool at Buffalo Bill’s.

Faraya is fun in the evening!

Beirut wins this round with 10/10 for its exciting and elegant nightlife scene, and Whistler 7.5/10 for cosy pubs and chilled out après that suit the more serious skier.

Accommodation

Both Whistler and Beirut have an array of accommodation options for every kind of stay. From affordable hostels and boutique boltholes to luxurious hotels and private villas, Whistler and Beirut have an option for every budget.

Beirut has some great hotels across the city. The Phoenicia is one of the very best in Beirut, offering excellent service and beautiful rooms. Hotel Albergo is a gorgeous hotel, boasting antique-furnished rooms, Beirut design, and a stunning roof pool and garden. Guests can even enjoy dinner and cocktails looking out over the city at the hotel’s rooftop lounge. The L’Hôte Libanais is a traditional Beirut guesthouse with incredible interiors, offering an authentic experience.

Whistler has a greater selection across a range of budgets, so it wins this round with 8/10, and Beirut comes behind with slightly less to choose from at 7/10.

So how do these two incredible places compare? When it comes to numbers Beirut wins with a final score of 8.7/10 and Whistler is close behind with a score of 8.1/10. Beirut is a unique and exciting city with the mountains of Faraya close by, and something at every turn. Meanwhile, Whistler is a haven for a mountain adventure, breath-taking vistas, and laid-back leisure. Visit both and your craving for adventure is sure to be satisfied.

Love,

Isabella