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If you're in pursuit of culture, the island's
studio tour is an excellent introduction to the variety of artistic
expression available on the island. The performing arts are also well
represented with several theater groups, a wealth of musicians and some
wonderful venues which range from pubs and small cafes to the islands
cultural heart at Artspring.
On Salt Spring you'll find many fine restaurants
with offerings ranging from fine French cuisine to west coast fusion.
The islands organic produce and locally caught seafood are often
showcased. Salt Spring Lamb has an excellent reputation and you'll find
it featured on many of the restaurants menus. Casual dining is well
represented with patio service available in most establishments during
the warmer months.
There are several artisanal cheese makers on the
island and their products are excellent. Salt spring has two fine
wineries which provide tasting's and tours and has it's own small
micro-brewery as well. Finally the local roasting company will sell you
a perfectly brewed cup of organic, fair trade coffee that you'll find
memorable.
Salt spring has several kayaking outfits which
will provide instruction, rent you a boat, or take you on a tour. Less
experience paddlers can take advantage of the islands protected
harbours (although ferry or boat traffic should be considered,
particulary in Ganges Harbour). Seasoned kayakers have a choice of a
number of overnight or multi-day trips with a wide variety of
destinations including the Gulf Islands National Park or one of several
Provincial Marine Parks.
Boaters can choose from several marinas and
anchorages with Ganges Harbour being the number one destination. Marine
services, nautical charts and a full range of amenities are available
in the Ganges area. Restaurants and bars crowd the shore and are only a
short dinghy ride away. The nearby Gulf Islands National Park and the
Provincial Marine Parks have a number of sheltered anchorages as well
as public moorage available.
The island has wonderful trails, many of which will
take you to overlooks with exceptional views of the surrounding region.
There are also less strenuous options ranging from creek side walks to
hikes along ocean beaches and cliffs. Ruckle Park has a great network
of hiking trails and wonderful camp sites overlooking the water.
Salt Spring is known as a healing place. Several
resorts and spas offer a variety of treatments and programs. There are
also yoga studios, spiritual retreats, massage therapists and an
exceptional health food store.
Getting Here & Getting Around – There are
three ferry terminals on the island, Vesuvius, Fulford and Long
Harbour, all of which are serviced by BC Ferries. From Tsawwassen
(Vancouver/Lower Mainland) you can reach the island by taking the ferry
to Long Harbour (some sailings are direct, consult their website for
details). The other option is to take the ferry to Swartz Bay
(Victoria/Vancouver Island) then catch the connecting ferry to Fulford
Harbour (be sure to ask for a through fare when you purchase you're
initial ticket - it provides a good discount). From Vancouver island
you can take the ferry to Fulford as previously mentioned or you can
take the Crofton - Vesuvius (Duncan/Vancouver Island) link located
further north on the island. From Salt Spring you can also connect
(directly or indirectly (consult the BC Ferries website for route
information) with Mayne, Pender and Saturna. Gabriola, Kuper and Thetis
(Valdes has no ferry service) are served by separate routes.
Inter-island passenger service is also available through Gulf Islands
Water Taxi. Several regional airlines service the island as well.
Boaters can take advantage of the anchorages in the protected area of
Ganges and Fulford harbours as well as a number of other bays and coves
around the island. Canada Customs (Canadian Border Service Agency) is
located on South Pender Island. Check out their website for
information on custom clearance and the CANPASS system. The new Salt
Spring transit system launched in 2008, allows you to access a large
part of the island without the need for a car. It services all of the
Ferry Terminals and the larger villages. The Silver Shadow Taxi Company
and Amber Cab provide taxi service on the island.
Map
of Salt Spring Island
Map of Ganges
Village
Map of Ruckle
Park
Salt
Spring Island Buy Local - Locally produced food
Salt Spring Island Directory - Find it here!
Salt
Spring Island Events - What's happening on Salt Spring
Salt
Spring Island Living - Life in the Islands
Salt
Spring Island Photo Galleries
Fulford
Village
Mount
Maxwell Provincial Park
Reginald Hill
Ruckle Provincial Park
Salt Spring Island Green Map
Gulf Islands
Nature & Outdoor Adventure
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