Salt Spring Island

Salt Spring Island is the biggest, most populated of the Gulf Islands. Blessed with the best climate in Canada – or so they say – and only half the rainfall of Vancouver, Salt Spring Island is a charming destination regardless of the season. The island is well known as a retreat for artists and many painters, photographers, musicians and writers have come here to find a serene workplace in the midst of a peaceful island setting. Thus, a number of galleries, studios and even simple roadside exhibits have sprouted up everywhere and the island is a dream for artists and art lovers alike.
The island has an idyllic landscape and rustic character and apart from visiting one of the many art exhibits, popular activities include camping, kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, bird watching and other outdoor activities. Salt Spring Island offers both Ruckle Provincial Park and Mt. Maxwell Provincial Park, as well as plenty of beaches and trails where one can enjoy solitude and impressive views. The largest village on the island is Ganges, where you can find amenities such as stores, banks and restaurant. Regular market days are held here as well, where local products, such as homemade bread, soaps and jams, wooden handicrafts and pottery, are sold. 

Practical Info

Salt Spring Island belongs to the southernmost Gulf Islands and is located in the Strait of Georgia between Vancouver Island and the BC mainland. While it is only a short ferry ride from Victoria to Salt Spring Island, the island can be reached by both ferry and sea plane from Vancouver.