Salt Spring Island continued...
ABOUT:
I
nhabited by settling pioneers back in 1859, this island was known as Admiral Island. Through a series of historical events, it was renamed to Salt Spring Island in 1910. What this island contains and holds in the 70.5 square miles, is striking. It could take weeks to explore the entirety, so let me suggest 3 top things to do, see and where to stay on this island rich with artists, artisans, muscicians and more. Given all the talent, Coastal Living Magazine named this the top "small arts town in Canada"!
WHAT TO DO: VISIT FARM STANDS
W
hen making your way around the island - culinary surprises abound. Keep your eye out for the numerous farm stands lining the roadways. Growing produce and raising healthy livestock in a kind and environmentally friendly way is of key importance to the farmers of Salt Spring Island. You will find samples of what is in season and are free to pick up what you would like to take home. The stands are on a honor system - so leave the specified amount in the can - take your goods, and go! Nothing is more fresh and tasty than fresh, daily picked produce. Think....fresh eggs, fresh bread, fresh potatoes, onions, carrots, tomatoes, fresh raspberries, meat, cheese....tour around - find your favorite stands! Support the locals of Salt Spring Island!
I picked up fresh tomatoes, green onions and herbs for a salad and fresh baby potatoes that I boiled and then laced with cream, dill, salt and pepper for a wonderful fresh side. Each stand is different - so make sure you make your way around the island.
Farm Stands
The Cottages of Salt Spring Island
WHERE TO STAY: THE COTTAGES
Charming, fully furnished cottages in a quiet gated setting, is the perfect spot to stay when visiting on the island. Located just a few minutes from the town of Ganges - the iconic center of the island, 50 cottages line the freshwater lake. Fully furnished, modern and bright, each cottage has 2 full bathrooms and 2 bedrooms, living room, kitchen and dining area. Bring out a coffee and sit in the Adironack chairs on the large wooden deck to enjoy the quietness of nature as you prepare for a day of activity. As a bonus, these cottages are pet-friendly! The resort also provides free use of the canoes and kayaks for time on Bullock Lake.
Ruckle Provincial Park
WHAT TO SEE: RUCKLE PROVINCIAL PARK
Salt Spring Island is renowed as one of North America's best small art communities. Art studios and galleries dot the island. The Saturday Market is an array of high-quality arts and crafts of the artisans of the island. With more than 2000 hours of sunshine annually, this island provides an open cavass for activity. Kayak, fish, dive, sail, golf or relax at the beach....all are waiting to be discovered. One of the most beautiful parks of the southern Gulf Islands is Ruckle Provincial Park. With 7 km of shoreline, tiny coves and bays, there are hours of enjoyable exploration ahead. Wildlife viewing is in abundance with the mixture of forest, field and shore habitats. Watch for whales or search the tide pools for brightly colored crab and starfish. Scuba divers frequent the waters edge of Ruckle Park searching for sponges, seastars, and giant barnacles. Stay on shore for a birdwatchers paradise. Grebes, eagles, grouse, quail, and cormorants are often seen. Explore by land or ocean - there are miles waiting to be discovered.
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