The 2015 Porsche Cayenne S and an Adventure in Whistler

Sometimes you just need to get away.

You don’t need to go far or for a long time, but you just need to go.

Within that realm, you need a quick break from the norm. A place to go to relax, enjoy some exceptional hospitality and perhaps a thrilling activity to take your mind off life.

For West Coast residents - namely the Lower Mainland - Whistler, BC might not always be the first place they think of.

Crossing the border can seem more exotic, but with the weak dollar and long border waits, heading south can be expensive and somewhat of a chore.

Why not set your navigation north?

The Sea-to-Sky Highway, no matter how many times you’ve driven it, can be majestic even on the worst of days.

Sinuous roads with mountains that kiss the sky, and an ocean that accompanies you for a length of the journey, are just a few of the drive’s endearing characteristics.

 

The world-class resort tucked in the midst of the Coast Mountains offers something for everyone; whether you’re a couple, a couple with a couple of kids, or just looking for an excuse to go for a drive.



With the 2015 Porsche Cayenne S packed for an overnight excursion, the sub 2-hour drive – even with traffic – leads to one of the greatest ski/outdoor destinations in North America, maybe even worldwide.

Then again, I’m biased!

And if luxury is the name of the game, they have that too.

Upon arrival at the Four Seasons Hotel in Whistler, I’m greeted with a kind smile and an engaging conversation.

 

It’s pointed out that the Cayenne S I’m captaining is a beauty. I agree and say that it drives beautifully, too.

The SUV, with sports car roots, has punch, competency in corners and a ride as smooth as the Howe Sound’s water that day.

The smooth revving 3.6L, V6 engine that produces 420 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque is a little slice of heaven on wheels.



It might not be the most powerful Cayenne in the lineup, but it certainly has enough gusto to keep me happily moving along when I need an extra bit of pizzazz.

Or if the scenario calls for it, I just enjoy the cabin’s serenity and beautiful craftsmanship.

The same can be said for the Four Seasons. From the lobby right to the room, there’s an elegance without the air of pomp.

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After a long day at work, I’m happy to turn the fireplace on, envelope myself in bed and welcome a peaceful night’s rest.

Had I not been too tired, I could have partaken one of their spa services. After all, it was voted the #1 Hotel Spa in Canada by Travel + Leisure.

Or perhaps limbered up with one of their complimentary yoga classes in the fitness studio.

Next time.

I’d need my rest for the next day’s adventure.

Though it wouldn’t be physically exhausting, the adrenaline would be flowing by the gallons.

Ziptrek Ecotours just unleashed their brand new line called “The Sasquatch.” As of the end of July in 2015, those in need of some fast thrills will find this to be exactly what they’re looking for.



The tour starts on Blackomb and ends on Whistler mountain.

The line itself is over 2 kilometres – the longest zipline in Canada and the U.S.- and you can zip along at speeds of over 100km/h. Not to mention you’re hundreds of feet above the trees.

Face forward or hang upside down, the vistas are fantastic and it’s a helluva good time.

It’s certainly a way to forget about what’s racing through your head for a few minutes, meet some likeminded folks and, of course, have a great time.

I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

To get the heart settled, there’s an ideal place that affords you the majesty of nature combined with the healing principles of the Scandinavians.

I’m talking about the relaxation haven called Scandinave Spa.



Soak up the heat in either a steam room, sauna or hot tub, plunge into one if their cold pools or showers and then meditate in one of the solariums or outdoor lounge chairs.

Or if you’re like me, you’ll fall asleep in the midday sun.

Stay for a massage as well if you’ve got the time.

The 20,000 square foot outdoor day spa is also expanding its relaxation realms to include more places to sweat out the stress, through yoga or a sun deck.

Leaving the comfort of the Four Seasons, the thrill of the Sasquatch and the peace and calm of Scandinave was tough.



But the 24-hour getaway was just what I needed to unwind and recharge.

The drive back home in the Porsche Cayenne S extended that little slice of bliss for a couple more hours.

Now back to reality…

 

The Porsche Cayenne S has a starting MSRP of $83,700. The price as tested (including destination but excluding taxes) is $94,045.

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