For decades, Salt Spring Island has been a haven for artists, free spirits and nature lovers, known for its independent art galleries and flourishing food scene. Ganges is a characterful community on the island's north-east tip and is the beating heart of Salt Spring.

Things to do

Salt Spring Island is famous for its farm-to-table food scene. Driving around the island, you'll stumble across roadside stalls selling organic produce, artisan goat cheese, free-range eggs and homemade preserves. On weekends don't miss the famous Saturday Market, where you can stock up on local produce.

One of Salt Spring's most popular exhibition spaces, the Blue Horse Folk Art Gallery showcases colourful paintings, beautiful wood carvings and ceramics. The cooperatively-owned Waterfront Gallery, meanwhile, features artists from across the Southern Gulf Islands. Pick up everything from jewellery to artisan soaps.

Ruckle Provincial Park offers a taste of the island's natural beauty. You can beachcomb on the pebbly shoreline, relax in grassy meadows and explore forest trails shaded by evergreen arbutus trees. Watch for sea lions and orcas splashing offshore, as well as bald eagles soaring overhead.

Salt Spring's cool climate and rich soil make it a hotspot for vineyards. Sip your way through local wineries like Salt Spring Vineyards, famous for its award-winning Pinot Noir. Nearby Salt Spring Island Ales offers craft brews with a focus on sustainable, locally-sourced and organic ingredients.

Getting around

A rental car is the best way to explore Salt Spring Island, while local buses are also available. BC Ferries offers regular services to Long Harbour, Fulford Harbour and Vesuvius Bay. You can also arrive by floatplane from downtown Vancouver.