At altitude, mountain mist and low temperatures combine to encase towering trees in snow and ice – a spectacular, slightly spooky phenomenon aptly known as “snow ghosts”. The sheer weight causes many to bend and curl into fantastical shapes, resembling something from a Tim Burton fantasy. Look out for these (super) natural phenomena at Big White and Mount Washington resorts.

As if walking through an old growth forest surrounded by mountains isn’t magical enough… add in glowing globes, shimmering rings, animated projections and twinkling lights and you have a  real-life enchanted experience. This after-dark adventure is Vallea Lumina, a 10-minute drive from Whistler, offering a winter night walk around a one-kilometre tree-lined trail enhanced by an immersive, multimedia experience.

Due to the lower air pressure at altitude, crafting delicate croissants and cream puffs high in the mountains is a science – and one that pastry chef Frank Berkers has skillfully mastered. Frank’s freshly baked goods at SilverStar Mountain Resort’s ski-in-ski-out cafe, Bugaboos Bakery Cafe, have been revered since he opened shop in 1996; amidst the locals and ski regulars, customers have included celebrities such as Nicole Kidman, Sir Anthony Hopkins and Welsey Snipes. Ski in for a steaming cinnamon bun and a coffee and linger for the warm hospitality and views of the Monashee Mountains.

Experience service that goes the extra mile with complimentary food, drinks, entertainment and baggage on your next Canadian adventure. Book your flights now at qantas.com.

As you ski along Revelstoke’s picturesque trails, keep your eye out for actual pictures. The Revelstoke Outdoor Art Movement (ROAM) is an unofficial gallery of art made from reclaimed ski, snowboard and climbing gear, all hidden around the mountain resort. There are currently 23 such works – such as Selfski by Vincent Van Snow and Self Portrait in a Velvet Snowboard by Skida Khalo – created by a not-for-profit team whose aim is to deliver a community-based public art project that inspires participation and discovery. There are no maps or official guides so it's up to you to hit the slopes and find the “masterpistes” for yourself.

At Scandinave Spa Whistler, not only can you soak in thermal baths surrounded by conifers covered in crisp snow, but you’ll be bathed in silence thanks to the spa’s lack of wifi and their no-noise policy. Follow the Nordic thermal therapy process of hot (steam bath, sauna, bath), cold (waterfall, shower, plunge bath) and final relaxation (solarium, fireplace); or simply choose your own blissful journey in silence. This is your moment to go unplugged.

Vodka tastes better when it's ice-cold – and the Ketel One Ice Room at Bearfoot Bistro, Whistler, is the coldest tasting room in the world where you can drink it. Bundle up (coats are supplied) and prepare for sampling an extensive menu of premium vodkas from around the world at –32ºC in a room entirely made of ice. It’s seriously cool.

Just two minutes’ drive from Panorama Mountain Resort, Toby Creek Adventures’ Mountain Icefall Tour is like Frozen come to life. Hop on a snowmobile and whizz along scenic, groomed trails that lead to a frozen waterfall. At Marmot Falls, when the ice is thick enough, you can even slide on your backside down a channel carved out at the bottom. All snowmobile rider levels welcome, including beginners, and children can join as passengers.

On most snowmobile tours, the kids will be passengers to an adult but if they really want to be in the driver’s seat, some resorts such as Big White and Whistler have a dedicated area where little ones can safely enjoy driving their very own mini snowmobile through the powder. This has to be the most fun (and the cutest) way for kids to get around in winter.

Experience service that goes the extra mile with complimentary food, drinks, entertainment and baggage on your next Canadian adventure. Book your flights now at qantas.com.

Dining on the likes of noble bison tenderloin with brown butter vegetables followed by a dessert of goat cheesecake mille feuille is already an elevated culinary experience. But at 2350 metres, Eagle’s Eye Restaurant at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort takes it to the very top – literally – as Canada’s highest restaurant. Open for lunch, après or dinner sittings (reservations highly recommended), you can enjoy a menu that fuses French technique with local ingredients as you take in panoramic views of mountain peaks across five national parks. The unparalleled sunsets are best enjoyed with a Canadian-favourite Caesar cocktail, a Bloody Mary-like sip made with clam-and-tomato juice.

If you prefer pedalling over gliding, Fernie Alpine Resort offers fat bike rentals that allow you to enjoy the thrill of mountain biking through the snow on a sturdy pair of off-road tyres. Head out on your own on a series of groomed trails, or strap on a headlamp and join a guided evening tour.

There is luxury, and then there is Crescendo. Located a stone’s throw from Big White’s main village, this 483-square-metre ski-in/ski-out chalet with five bedrooms and five bathrooms can sleep the whole family – and then some – in comfort and style. When you’re not on the slopes, you can soak in the indoor/outdoor pool; catch a film on the almost-2.8-metre movie screen with surround sound; sit by the fireplace; play billiards or ping pong in the games room; or simply gaze upon the mountain views from the nine-plus metre floor-to-ceiling windows. Lighting, sound, security and climate are all centrally controlled through sleek and easy-to-use touch panels.

You’ll find champagne powder snow, epic views and activities for everyone on a ski trip to British Columbia. Book your flights now at qantas.com.

All mid-mountain cafès can lay claim to spectacular views – but not all of them have hot and gooey cheese like this. Panorama’s Elkhorn Cabin, sitting midway down the Rollercoaster run, gives you all the classic alpine vibes you crave on a ski holiday, and ups the ante with a menu featuring traditional Swiss raclette, gluhwein (hot mulled wine) and a wide selection of local BC craft beers and wines. With indoor and outdoor seating on offer, best to have your camera – and your appetite – at the ready.

The Gunbarrel Coffee at Big White’s Gunbarrel Grill has its name for a reason – the final step in making these decadent cocktails involves a flaming shot of Grand Marnier being poured down the groove of a shotgun barrel and into the cup, setting the drink alight. For more than 30 years, the grill’s bartenders have combined skill and showmanship to create these boozy coffees that are as tasty as they are entertaining. You’ll also enjoy the venue’s classic mountain lodge vibes – think wood-panelled walls and a big stone fireplace – plus gourmet burgers.