Salt Spring Island, BC

Salt Spring, the largest of the Gulf Islands, is home to indisputably eccentric, laid back, offbeat, and most importantly, friendly people. The island is well known throughout Canada as being an artist sanctuary. Visit the three communities, Ganges, Fulford, and Vesuvius, that call Salt Spring Island home. The Studio Tour, referred to by locals as the “sheep tour,” takes you to over 30 home studios of potters, weavers, sculptors, painters, gardeners, photographers, and more! Pick up a free map from the Visitor Info Centre in Ganges, and keep your eyes open for the blue-and-white sheep logos that adorn signs along the roadsides.

Discover treats galore at Market in the Park, the farmers market in Ganges's Centennial Park, although arts & crafts now outnumber the produce stands. For over 30 years, the Market has been a Saturday ritual where anything can, and most likely will, be found for sale. With over 100 spots available to vendors, there is a myriad of homemade and homegrown wares available. Market in the Park takes place every Saturday April through October.Salt Spring also offers a number of outdoor activities. Pack a picnic filled with local delicacies like goat cheese and smoked salmon and settle in a flowered pasture for a peaceful lunch with a view of the Olympic Mountains. Hike to the top of Mount Maxwell and give a victory cry! Kayak around the shoreline and explore the offshore marine parks. Salt Spring Island has something for everyone, so pack your bags and hop on the ferry!

Salt Spring Island is reached by ferry from Vancouver Island or the mainland. On Vancouver Island, ferries leave from Crofton to Vesuvius, or from Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal in Victoria to Fulford Harbour and Long Harbour. Ferries from the mainland depart from Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal to Long Harbour. Population: 10,000 Elevation: sea level to 700 m (2297 ft.) Average July Temperature: 24ºC (75ºF) Average Jan Temperature: 7ºC (45ºF) Annual Rainfall: 89 cm (35 in.) Annual Snowfall: 35 cm (14 in.)