Saltspring Island is regarded by many to be one of the premiere getaway destinations on the west coast. Located between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia, Saltspring Island maintains the perfect balance of easy accessibility and small town island feel. Just a short ferry ride from Tsawwassen and Victoria, Saltspring has managed to preserve the feeling or laid back, rural island charm.

With its stunning island beauty and one of the gentlest climates in North America it should come as no surprise that Saltspring Island is rated as the 3rd most desirable community to live in Canada. It is not uncommon for visitors to come for a relaxing getaway but wind up buying a piece of Saltspring real estate and turning into islanders themselves!

Saltspring Island activities are varied and numerous. You could:

• Take a moonlight kayak paddle
• Try beachcombing on some stunning west coast beaches
• enjoy some 4 star cuisine at one of Saltspring Island’s many restaurants
• get a massage and spa treatment
• enjoy an island art tour
• cycle the island on its many quiet back lane roads
• take a whale watching tour
• try your hand at fishing one of Saltspring Island’s several lakes
• enjoy a round of golf on one of the local courses
• spend an afternoon hiking one of Saltspring Island’s many parks
• find a bargain at the island’s fresh air craft and produce market

Finding accommodation on Saltspring Island is easy. The island has one of the highest numbers of Bed and Breakfasts per capita, with one to suit almost any budget from the cozy and quaint to the truly luxurious. The island also offers several quality hotels.

And getting to Saltspring Island is half the fun. The ferry ride from Tsawwassen or Victoria is relatively short and you will get to enjoy some truly pristine west coast scenery along the way!

With a vibrant art scene, colorful local characters and politics and rural charm, Saltspring Island is a little bit like finding yourself in Peter Mayle’s novel ‘A Year in Provence’. And just like the novel, you’ll undoubtedly be taken in by this island’s quirky local charm.