Salt Spring Island

HOW TO GET TO SALT SPRING ISLAND FROM VICTORIA

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 22:39:10 GMT

Tips on how to get to Salt Spring Island from Victoria

How to Get to Salt Spring Island from Victoria

Tips on how to get to Salt Spring Island from Victoria from Hop On Hop Off Tours in Salt Spring Island, Canada, via ferry or seaplane.

Traveling from Victoria to Salt Spring Island offers a variety of scenic and convenient options for adventurers. The journey typically begins at Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal, where BC Ferries provides regular sailings to Fulford Harbour on Salt Spring Island. For budget-conscious travelers, the most economical route combines a line 70 bus and ferry, taking approximately 2 hours. Those seeking a quicker trip can go for a 20-minute flight, though it comes with a higher price tag. Once on the island, visitors can explore its charming attractions, artisanal communities, and stunning landscapes through Hop On Hop Off Tours, which offers a 28km scenic loop called the Artisan Trail showcasing many local gems.

Salt Spring Island: At a Glance

Multiple transportation options are available from Victoria, including ferry rides from Swartz Bay to Fulford Harbour and seaplane flights to Ganges Harbour.
The Hop On Hop Off Tour offers a 28km loop trail exploring local artisans and scenic spots, with stops at attractions like Salt Spring Island Cheese and Sacred Mountain Lavender Farm.
Traveling without a car is convenient, with BC Transit services from the ferry terminal to Ganges village and walking options available for exploring the island's natural beauty.
Salt Spring Island is ideal for a weekend getaway, offering a perfect blend of scenic landscapes, artisanal markets, and serene atmosphere in just 2-3 days.
The island features picturesque forested roads winding past lakes, farmlands, and wooded areas, with frequent ocean views and glimpses of neighbouring islands.

Embarking on a journey from Victoria to Salt Spring Island opens up a world of scenic beauty and artisanal delights!

Discover the most convenient ways to reach this gem of the Southern Gulf Islands and prepare for an unforgettable exploration with Hop On Hop Off Tours .

Ferry Options from Victoria to Salt Spring Island

Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal to Fulford Harbour Terminal

To travel from Victoria to Salt Spring Island, start at the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal, located just north of the city. This scenic route offers stunning views of the Southern Gulf Islands and takes approximately 35 minutes.

BC Ferries operates several daily sailings from Swartz Bay to Fulford Harbour. Check the ferry schedule in advance, especially during the busy summer months. For more information and group reservations, visit the BC Ferries website .

BC Transit Services on Salt Spring Island

BC Transit offers convenient bus routes covering various parts of the island, making it easy to reach key destinations without the need for a personal vehicle. Whether you're visiting Fulford Harbour, Vesuvius Bay, or Ganges Harbour, the bus routes provide a hassle-free way to explore Salt Spring Island, BC.

To reach Swartz Bay terminal from downtown Victoria using BC Transit Services:

Take BC Transit bus 70 or 72 from the bus stop at Douglas St. & Pandora Ave. to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal (about 1 hour).
Board the ferry to Fulford Harbour (35 minutes).

Total travel time: Approximately 2 hours.

Cost: About $20 (bus and return ferry combined).

Flying to Salt Spring Island

For a quicker journey, consider flying from Victoria to Salt Spring Island by taking a seaplane from Victoria Harbour to Ganges Harbour via Harbourair.com .

What is the Hop On Hop Off Tour?

The Hop On Hop Off Tour is an immersive and scenic shuttle service on Salt Spring Island, BC, designed to showcase the island’s artisanal treasures and natural beauty.

This 28km loop trail takes passengers through forested roads and seaside views, stopping at various local attractions . With small-group tours and multiple daily departures, it offers a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the island's highlights.

The tour operates seasonally from April to October, making it perfect for a spring or summer visit. Departures run from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, with approximately 55 minutes at each location.

Benefits of Taking the Hop On Hop Off Tour

Exploring Salt Spring Island with the Hop On Hop Off Tour offers a unique and enriching experience. Here are some compelling benefits of choosing this tour:

Convenient and Stress-Free Travel: The Hop On Hop Off Tour eliminates the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads and finding parking spots. Sit back and relax as our knowledgeable drivers take you to the island's top attractions.
Flexible Schedule: With multiple daily departures, you can tailor your visit to your own pace. Spend as much time as you like at each stop, making the most of your day on the island.
Exclusive Access to Hidden Gems: The Artisan Trail tour takes you off the beaten path to discover lesser-known attractions that you might miss otherwise. Enjoy the island's hidden treasures without the crowds.

Exciting Stops on the Tour

Salt Spring Island Cheese

Indulge your taste buds at this charming goat farm and artisanal cheese producer. Sample a variety of handcrafted cheeses in the tasting room, paired with local jams, chutneys, and preserves. Take the self guided tour around the barn then enjoy their house-made gelato and wood fired pizza!

Sacred Mountain Lavender Farm

Explore over 60 varieties of lavender on a self-guided tour through the fragrant fields. The farm shop offers a wide selection of lavender plants and products, perfect for bringing a piece of Salt Spring Island's serenity home with you.

Salt Spring Brewing Co.

Quench your thirst at this craft brewery, where small-batch beers have been crafted from mountain spring water since 1998. Sample a range of fresh, unpasteurized brews made with locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.

Garry Oaks Estate Winery

Discover estate-grown wines at this century-old farm, complete with a mini-labyrinth and picturesque pond. All wines are sustainably produced and bottled on-site from their seven-acre vineyard.

Ciderworks & Salt Spring Apple Co.

Experience the art of cider-making at this organic orchard, boasting over 425 heritage apple varieties. Watch the cider-making process in action at their modest Ciderworks building. Sample a range of crisp, refreshing ciders that capture the essence of Salt Spring Island's apple-growing heritage.

Plan Your Trip Today!

Step 1: Head to the Swartz Bay Terminal

Begin your journey to Salt Spring Island from Victoria by traveling to the Swartz Bay Terminal using BC Transit bus 70, located just north of the city. This terminal is your gateway to the Southern Gulf Islands, including Salt Spring Island.

Step 2: Board the BC Ferries to Fulford Harbour

Hop on a BC Ferries vessel from the Swartz Bay Terminal to Fulford Harbour. Make sure to check the ferry schedule in advance, especially during the busy summer months.

Step 3: Explore Alternative Routes

For a unique perspective, consider taking a seaplane from Victoria Inner Harbour to Ganges Harbour. Harbour Air offers quick and breathtaking flights, providing a scenic overview of Salt Spring Island.

Step 4: Utilize Local Transit Services

Once on Salt Spring Island, you can explore without a car by using BC Transit services, which connect key points across the island. The buses are reliable and run frequently, making it easy to visit popular attractions without the need for a personal vehicle.

Step 5: Join the Hop On Hop Off Tour

Maximize your Salt Spring Island experience by joining a Hop On Hop Off Tour. This shuttle service operates seasonally from April to October and offers a stress-free way to visit artisan stops.

Step 6: Plan Your Return Trip

When planning your return trip, consider the various ferry options available. BC Ferries also operates routes from Long Harbour and Vesuvius Bay, providing flexibility for your journey back to Vancouver Island or other Southern Gulf Islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Salt Spring Island worth a visit?

Absolutely! Salt Spring Island offers natural beauty and charm, with many miles of roads passing serene lakes, lush farmlands, and enchanting woods. You'll enjoy ocean views, neighboring islands, and majestic mainland mountains, making it a top destination in the Gulf Islands of British Columbia. Visitors find the blend of scenic landscapes and vibrant local culture irresistible.

Is Salt Spring walkable?

Yes, Salt Spring Island is very walkable! The Capital Regional District supports a network of cycling and pedestrian hiking trails, making it enjoyable to explore on foot. Whether strolling through Ganges Village or hiking scenic trails, you'll appreciate the island's natural beauty and artisanal communities. Most visitors love the slower pace and connection with nature that walking provides.

How many days do you need to see Salt Spring Island?

Salt Spring Island is perfect for a weekend escape. A 2-day getaway from Victoria or Vancouver is typically enough to explore the island's highlights and enjoy its serene atmosphere. Most travelers find a couple of days just right to experience the essence of Salt Spring Island.

Things to do visiting Salt Spring Island 2026

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 20:22:10 GMT

Things to do on Salt Spring Island

Updated for 2026

Nestled between Vancouver Island and the British Columbia mainland, Salt Spring Island, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Salt Spring Island is the largest of the Southern Gulf Islands. Known for its artistic vibe, wine, cider and beer tasting tours, and a laid back lifestyle, this tranquil Gulf Island paradise is the perfect weekend getaway or extended vacation spot.

With its rugged natural beauty, thriving local produce, and wealth of island attractions, Salt Spring Island offers something for everyone. Here, it's easy to unplug from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Meander along forest trails, pop into the Saturday Market, or lounge on a secluded beach.

From touring wineries and farmsteads to browsing galleries and boutiques, there's plenty to fill your days with joy.

5 Highlights of Salt Spring Island

If you're planning to visit Salt Spring Island, check out these 5 great stops for when you're there:

1. Visit the Salt Spring Island Saturday Market

Every Saturday from April to October, the famous Salt Spring Island Market draws crowds hungry to sample the island's bounty. With over 100 vendors, it's easy to spend hours wandering the stalls stocked with fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal crafts, and more.

Don't miss out on tasty snacks like wood-fired pizza or spanakopita straight from the oven. It's the perfect place to mingle with locals, listen to live music, and soak up the island vibe.

2. Explore the Ganges Village

At the heart of Salt Spring Island, Ganges Village sits - the main hub buzzing with cafes, galleries, shops, and entertainment. Meander along the seaside boardwalk and duck into the eclectic boutiques. Treat yourself to fish and chips on the pier or browse the local artisan wares.

Along the way, be sure to check when the next concert, play, or community event is happening. The village comes alive on market days and is the gateway to exploring the island.

3. Enjoy Ruckle Provincial Park

If you're looking for an idyllic nature escape among Salt Spring Island Attractions, head to Ruckle Provincial Park, spanning the southwestern coastline. Lace up your hiking boots and set off on trails winding through forests, meadows, and shorelines.

Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the the oceanfront sites, or comb the pebbly beaches and keep an eye out for orcas or seals playing offshore.

With backcountry campsites and kayak rentals available, it's easy to settle in for outdoor adventure here.

4. Discover the Salt Spring Island Cheese Company

Indulge your taste buds at the Salt Spring Island Cheese, where farm-fresh artisanal cheeses reign supreme. Tour the small-batch production facility to learn about traditional cheese making methods before sampling their award-winning selection.

Sip wine while nibbling on platters piled high with creamy goat milk cheeses paired with house-made chutneys. Visitors can also grab a wood-fired pizza or specialty grilled cheese sandwich at the onsite cafe!

5. Hop On the "Artisan Trail" with Salt Spring Hop On Hop Off Tours

The signature "Artisan Trail " tour is a spectacularly scenic 28km loop trail with epic stops at Salt Spring Island Cheese, Sacred Mountain Lavender Farm, Salt Spring Brewing Co, Garry Oaks Estate Winery, Ciderworks Apple Co, Ganges Village & Public Market. This is the perfect way get off the beaten trail and explore, sip and savour your way through some of the best local artisans & attractions on the Island!

How Does a Hop On Hop Off Tour Work?

The unique hop on hop off tour allows you to embrace the freedom of exploring Salt Spring Island at your own pace, discovering its hidden gems and scenic wonders as you go. Here’s how it works:

Tour Schedule

Tours run from mid April to October
Departures are at 10 am, 11 am, and 12 pm from Salt Spring Visitor Info Centre
Each tour loop takes approximately 1 hour
You can hop on and off all day with your pass

Tour Stops

Our tour visits many of the best attractions on Salt Spring within a 28km loop, including:

Salt Spring Island Cheese Company - cheese tastings, wood-fire pizza and gelato
Sacred Mountain Lavender Farm
Salt Spring Brewing Co. - craft brewery tastings in nature
Garry Oaks Estate Winery - wine tastings
Ciderwork & Salt Spring Apple Co. - apple orchard & cider tastings
Ganges Village & Market - peaceful journey along the Ganges Harbour

At each stop, you can hop off to explore and then catch the next bus when ready. Or stay on the entire route to get an overview of the island's treasures. Knowledgeable guides provide commentary en route.

Click here to schedule your next tour with us!

FAQ - Visiting Salt Spring Island

What should I bring on the tour?

When joining our Salt Spring Island hop on hop off tour, we recommend bringing:

Sturdy walking shoes for exploring the stops and trails
Light layers like a sweater or windbreaker in case of changing weather
Sun protection including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
A small backpack or crossbody bag for carrying any purchases or picnic snacks
Cash for food, drinks, and shopping at the local vendors
Camera to capture the island's beauty and memories from your time here

Come prepared to wander, taste, and experience the island so you can make the most of your time with us!

How long is each stop?

The bus comes by every hour allowing about 50 minutes at each stop along the route for brief tastings, exploration, and photos.

For a more in-depth visit, you can hop off the bus and spend 1-2 hours at locations before catching the next bus.

Our guides are happy to provide timing recommendations so you can customize your tour experience.

Can I stay longer at a stop and catch the next bus?

Absolutely! Your pass allows you to hop on and off all day, so you can spend more time at places that interest you most. Just check the tour schedule for the next departure time.

If you want to linger at a stop like Salt Spring Island Cheese or the brewery for tastings and lunch, simply hop off and then take a later bus when you're ready to continue.

We want you to make the most of your time exploring the island.

When you're finished for the day, look forward to a rewarding night's sleep in one of the comfortable Salt Spring Island hotels.

Plan Your Visit to Salt Spring Island with Hop On Hop Off Tours

Salt Spring Island offers a tranquil retreat with artisan treasures waiting to be discovered. Avoid the stress of driving and parking woes, and let us chauffeur you around the island on our unique hop on hop off tour.

With knowledgeable local guides and stops at charming vineyards, breweries, cheese shops, markets, and parks, it's the perfect introduction to our island paradise.

Book your tickets online and start dreaming about sipping and savoring your way around Salt Spring! We can't wait to welcome you aboard.

7 Reasons Why You Should Definitely Visit Beautiful Salt Spring Island, British Columbia.

Wed, 31 May 2023 21:58:21 GMT

I am excited to share with you one of the best kept secrets just a short ferry ride away from both Vancouver and Victoria, BC.

I am referring of course, to Salt Spring Island. A magical, rustic paradise surrounded by endless natural beauty located between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia. There are so many things to see, do and experience that visitors to the Island will find themselves spoiled for choice.

Here are the top 7 that made my list of experiences while visiting Salt Spring Island

1. Visit the Saturday Market

The Salt Spring Island Saturday Market is one of the largest and most popular outdoor markets in British Columbia. Featuring local produce, arts, crafts, and entertainment this vibrant market is a must visit for any visitor to the island. Held every Saturday from April to October, the market offers a unique glimpse into the islands creative and diverse community.

2. Hop on Hop off Artisan Trail Tour

One of the best ways to explore the island is by taking the Salt Spring Hop On Hop Off “artisan trail tour.”

The small group shuttle bus tour takes you along beautiful, forested roads and seaside scenery to some of the best off the beaten path artisan attractions on the island. Included on my stops was the famous Salt Spring goat cheese farm, a craft brewery nestled in against the side of a mountain, a picturesque estate winery, a small batch spirits distillery and an organic craft cider & apple farm. The tour allows you to stop at as many of the attractions as you like, for as long as you like making it a super enjoyable and affordable way to see the Island.

3. Explore the Islands Natural Beauty

Salt Spring Island is known for its stunning natural beauty with rugged coastlines and dense forests. Take a hike on one of the islands many trails such as the Mount Maxwell Provincial Park, which offers several hiking trails and an impressive viewpoint that overlooks the surrounding Southern Gulf Islands.

4. Experience the Islands History

Salt Spring Island has a rich history that is reflected in its architecture, landmarks, and cultural events. Visit the Salt Spring Island Heritage Centre to learn more about the islands past and view exhibits that showcase the islands Indigenous history, pioneer settlement and agricultural heritage. Check out the historic Mouats Trading Company building, which has been in operation since 1907 and is one of the oldest continuously operated general stores in British Columbia.

5. Enjoy the Islands Culinary Delights

Salt Spring Island is a foodies paradise with a range of culinary experiences on offer. Visit one of the islands many organic farms and wineries, where you can sample high quality and sustainably grown products. The locally grown grapes produce wonderful aromatic white wines in particular. For seafood lovers there is plenty of fresh seafood to try with a range of restaurants and food trucks offering locally harvested dishes.

6. Attend the Islands Festivals and Events

Salt Spring Island is home to several festivals and events throughout the year including the Salt Spring Island Garlic Festival, Tour Des Isles music festival, the Salt Spring Island Apple Festival and the Salt Spring Island Farmers Institute Fall Fair. These events offer visitors a chance to experience the islands culture, arts and culinary delights, while also meeting locals and other visitors to the island.

7. Relax and Unwind

Salt Spring Island is a perfect place to relax and unwind with a range of accommodation options that cater to all types of visitors. From luxury resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts there is something for everyone. If camping is your jam Ruckle Provincial Park has the most beautiful oceanfront campground I have ever stayed at in my life! Take a stroll along one of the islands many beaches or enjoy a massage and spa treatment at one of the many wellness centers.

Salt Spring Island is a truly unique and charming destination. Don't pass up the opportunity to visit this hidden-gem on your next travel adventure!

- Passion for life-