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Gulf Islands: "Off the Beaten Track"


© Mary Ellen Bradshaw

Three Gulf Islands

Saltspring Island

Saltspring Island is the largest and most populated of the Gulf islands. As well as the forest landscape and ocean views, farms and pastures populated by the famous Saltspring lambs, dot the countryside. The main village is Ganges, with its wonderful farmer's markets unique shops, galleries and sidewalk cafes. Like the rest of the islands in the gulf, Saltspring has a Mediterranean climate and has the highest recorded all year round temperature in Canada. Lifestyle is laid back and relaxed and cultural activities are rich and extensive, as there are many artists writers and artisans residing on the island.

Saltspring has many attractions and recreational activities including sailing, ocean kayaking, hiking, golf, tennis, fishing biking and nature walks. You may wish to include Mcfadden Creek Heron Rookery on your walk

Saltspring boasts spa resorts and retreat centers and annual events and festivals, which brings world class performers to the island.

.Saltspring is also known for it's outdoor market, the "market in Centennial Park." April-October, 8am to 4pm every Saturday. There is something for everyone; home grown or home baked food, arts and crafts, music and fun. It is worth a visit.

You may get to Saltspring by Sea or air. BC Ferries, Coho Ferry, Washington State Ferries, The Victoria express, The Victoria clipper and the princess Marguerite 111 stop here. You may also arrive by airplane, seaplane, helicopter.

Accommodations on Saltspring are plentiful and range from campgrounds and RV parks to Bed and breakfasts and hotels. A wonderful place for a weekend getaway.

Saltspring Island Campgrounds & RV Parks Cedar Beach Resort-Campground 537 2205-Salt Spring Island Lakeside Gardens Resort and RV Park 537 5773 Ruckle Provincial Park 653 4115 - Salt Spring Island Salt Spring Island RV Park 537 1038 Shady Willows Resort and Campsite 537 2956

Gabriola Island

Gabriola is a small island, easily accessed by a 15-minute ferry ride from Vancouver Island. Gabriola is a close knit community of people living in a pastoral setting, a serene and natural space,with an abundance of wildlife, In the sea, one may see, seals, sea lions, Killer Whales, otters, many variety of sea bird and eagles. Like the other islands in the gulf, Gabriola has a temperate climate and has many recreational activities such as biking, hiking, nature walks, fishing, scuba diving, boating, swimming, kayaking to name just a few.

Gabriola's attractions include, the Gabriola museum, which often features first nation heritage and pioneer history. Early native visitors left their mark on the island with an extensive and varied collection of petroglyphs. If you have an interest in Petroglyphs,visit the site behind the United Church on South Road. They are both awesome and mystical.

 

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