(This story is sponsored by Tourism Whistler.)

This fall, immerse yourself in a world of literary inspiration with a cozy fall retreat to the mountain town of Whistler and a special virtual edition of the Whistler Writers Festival.

From October 15 to 18, word wranglers, book club enthusiasts, and avid readers can settle in by the fireplace and enjoy all that the stimulating literary event has to offer.

Each year, the festival celebrates the written word by bringing authors and attendees together in Whistler. But with the current state of the pandemic, all of the events will be accessible online.

From a distance, attendees can participate in virtual real-time conversations, live-streaming masterclass workshops, virtual pitching sessions, and more.

The Whistler Writers Festival has created an impressive lineup of emerging and established authors to speak at the literary events. There will be 11 first-time authors taking part in the four-day festival, many of whom have high profile careers as journalists, lawyers, and nurses.

Talented author and photographer Wade Davis will be this year’s headlining guest, making a special appearance at the Saturday Night Gala. Davis is also an anthropologist and ethnobotanist, and is best known for his work focused on worldwide Indigenous cultures. His career has allowed him to explore the world—from the Amazon to Tibet, Africa to Australia, and Polynesia to the Arctic. Tickets to the virtual gala are “pay what you can” and prospective attendees can register here.

Other celebrated authors participating in the upcoming festival include: Caroline Adderson, David Bergen, Jillian Christmas, Marina Endicott, Patrick Friesen, Michelle Good, Aislinn Hunter, Grant Lawrence, Annabel Lyon, Waubgeshig Rice, David A. Roberston, Cordelia Strube, Stephanie Wrobel, and many more. A comprehensive list of speakers and their bios can be found on the festival’s website. 

Other entertaining events that can be livestreamed are the Booklovers’ Literary Salon, Literary Cabaret, and the Sunday Brunch.

Even with the changes implemented to keep everyone safe and healthy, the festival will continue to focus on building the intimacy that it is known for. Many of the events will be accompanied by recipes from Whistler chefs and mixologists, free virtual après sessions (a nod to the famous Whistler pastime), and opportunities to talk with authors. Festivalgoers can also look forward to the audience participation twist in The Domestic Thriller event on Saturday, October 17.

Despite the festival going virtual this year, the picturesque town of Whistler welcomes guests before, during, and after the festival for a literary inspired retreat.

There is truly no better time to visit—imagine walking through the forest as fall leaves float to the ground around you. It is the ideal setting for making lasting memories, forming meaningful connections, and finding creative inspiration.

Guests can also head outdoors (or to a spa) for some rest and recuperation. Pack your laptop and books before heading out to enjoy some peace and tranquility in the mountains. The calming sounds of nature and fresh air work wonders on writer’s block.

After spending hours breathing in the crisp fall air, you return to your cozy hotel room, pour a glass of wine, and begin reading your favourite book by the fireplace.

Visitors can also find inspirations in Whistler’s art galleries, Audain Art Museum, Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, and countless cafes and restaurants. Sometimes a delicious meal or baked good is enough to spark wondrous creativity.

It’s hard to believe that all of this is only a short drive away from Vancouver—no ferries or flights required.

Literary enthusiasts can retreat to Whistler for a fall getaway with two-night stays from $139 per night. Book now.