I have stayed four times this year at the Westin. This trip it was one night at the Westin,one night at the Four Seasons (see my Four Seasons review).The Westin is on the outskirts of the Village, about a ten minute walk from all the stores and restaurants, and right next to the Whistler gondola,convenient for skiiers.
Westin was remodelling the large lobby area this visit,there is a large roaring fireplace, and many seating areas now, primarily in a modern furniture style, not the ski lodge feel,so it is more a corporate look. Great for conferences as I noted large ballrooms getting new carpet.
My studio faced the rooftops of the Village in the distance, probably charming when there is snow.Note that the hotel is really built against the hillside base of Whistler Mountain,so the floor number does not really describe its height. A ninth floor with a "forest view" will be looking directly at the slope of trees. A fifth floor view on the village side is really a third floor from the ground, since there is a patio level below.
The studios have been totally remodelled this year, and the kitchenettes well designed with all stainless steel appliances-fridge,d/w,induction cooktop,convection oven and microwave. The cupboards are knotty pine, new, and give a chalet feel, and fully stocked with dishes and utensils.
The Westin bed was great as usual. For two people, the studio is fine but small. There is a gas fireplace, and HVAC is central, so no unit going through the outside wall. For a family, you would need at least a one bedroom. I have stayed in the one bedrooms, and while the bedroom is small, it leaves more room for a table and two chairs in the main room. With the studio, you have to use the coffee table to eat at.
I didn't try the pool or fitness center, but they appear very clean. The pool is partially indoors/outdoors with a clear plastic divider above water. I preferred the Four Seasons pool as it was larger. There is a spacious indoor promenade lined by shops and art galleries.
Staff are primarily Australian young people, refreshingly cheerful and helpful compared to my experiences in many U.S. hotels.. The other name for Whistler is "Whistralia", since it is extremely popular with Aussies.
In summary, the Westin is a reliable choice, it is not at the level of the Four Seasons, but also rates are lower, it is quality, close to the village, and probably would be a great choice especially for families or attending conferences there. Parking is expensive at $34 a night as it is at all Whistler hotels. The advantage is that you can walk around the Village without cars everywhere.
Housekeeping was rather aggressive with the "key rap" at 11am (not an Australian),checkout time is noon. Also I noted that the inside of my room door was coated with weeks worth of dust, not good for those with allergies. You wouldn't see that at the Four Seasons.
