Whistler resort offers Olympian ski lessons

If you've ever wanted to be taught how to ski by a pro, one hotel in Canada has the package for you.

Through winter and to the end of the 2011 ski seasons, the Four Seasons resort Whistler in British Columbia is offering a "Ski with an Olympian" package, which includes lessons with current or former Olympian or World Cup Champion skiers.

Athletes participating in the program include Canadian gold medalist Ashleigh McIvor, Rob Boyd and siblings Britt and Michael Janyk - albeit starting from C$530 (€400) per person per night.

The lesson is customized for each guest, with Four Seasons saying that goals can include improving technique, hearing first-hand stories of Olympic glory or "simply securing bragging rights for years to come."

Four Seasons also offers the services of a "ski concierge," on hand to secure lift tickets, shuttle guests, organize lessons and take care of equipment for skiers at the beginning and end of every day.

Whistler came under the spotlight in a big way earlier this year as one of the main venues of the 2010 Winter Olympics, although it's well known among skiers as being one of the best ski resorts in the world - with a price tag to match.

Other hotels in the area include the luxury Fairmont Chateau and the Westin Resort and Spa, although cheaper rates are available at the Mountainside Lodge, the Crystal Lodge or the Listel Hotel Whistler.

http://www.fourseasons.com/whistler/