Going Places: Talisman - big isn't necessarily better

By Liz Fleming

Bigger isn't always better.

While a small-hill ski resort like Talisman in the quiet Beaver Valley of Ontario might not attract Olympic mogul-bashers, it's a magnet for snow-loving families looking for manageable outdoor adventures.

Celebrating its 45th year in business, Talisman offers the fun of intermediate style hills and the convenience of ski in/ski out accommodations along with lessons for skiers of every level of ability.

"Pretend you're hugging a bear," advises Alpine Programs and Recreation Co-ordinator, Dave Dingeldein, my ski instructor.

Recognizing a terminal intermediate when he sees one, Dingeldein is keeping things simple as he works to improve my less-than-stellar style. 

"Your turns are very consistent," he adds in an encouraging tone as I hold my arms out, hugging that imaginary bear in the most awkward way all the way down the hill.  

Dingeldein's method is simple.  Focus on one or two changes and don't deal with too many details all at once. Now that I'm managing to hold my poles in front, instead of allowing them to bounce lazily behind, Dingeldein presents the next simple suggestion.

"Feel your boots pressing against your shins all the way down the hill," he says, demonstrating perfect form that puts his weight over the front of his skis - where mine should be.

Just as I think I'm getting the hang of the feel-the-boots thing, I lose track of the bear I've been hugging.

Gracefully, I ski over my own pole and crash into an untidy heap on the snow.

At a larger resort, on a steeper slope, I might have hurt myself, but at Talisman, where the drop is gentle, only my pride is damaged.  I brush myself off, and head for Smokie's Pub at the bottom of the hill to rinse my bruised ego in something tall and cool. 

It's all so convenient.

The resort features well-appointed rooms, most just steps from the two main chairlifts, the ski school meeting point and the bunny hill lifts.

Just a few hundred meters away is the main lodge, with its spacious dining room and on the other side, the ski rental, cafeteria and bar. 

Ideal for families, Talisman not only offers a complete ski school program and childcare service, but also cooking, yoga and other classes for those who'd rather appreciate the snowy setting from behind glass.

Guests are also welcome to take part in daily activities such as magic shows, tobogganing parties and hay rides - all included in the price of a room.

If a little self-indulgence is in order, you can check out the spa or order up a food and wine tasting experience in the Vintage dining room.

Although Talisman is about to embark on an expansion that will see the development of on-property condominiums and private chalets beginning this spring, with any luck the small-scale charm of the place will remain and give other skiers like me the opportunity to keep hugging those bears.