Salt Spring Island

Salt Spring Island is in the Southern Gulf Islands of British Columbia in Canada. Salt Spring (sometimes spelled "Saltspring", one word) is the largest both in area and population of the Southern Gulf Islands. The population has grown from about 10,000 to 13,000 in the past five years with the influx of baby boomer retirees (many Canadian-American from California) and Alberta oil patch money. There are many more seasonal and part-time residents.

Salt Spring Island Halal Travel Guide

Salt Spring Island was first called Saltspring (one word) Island by Governor James Douglas in 1853. He believed that the Salt Springs in the North of the Island would bring great wealth to the Island. It was also known by a few other names during the early years: Klaathem (Cowichan Indian word for Salt), Chuam, Tuam, and Admiral Island. Saltspring was the official name as recorded by the Geographic Board of Canada in 1905. However, Canada Post and many local residents used (and still use) the name Salt Spring (2 words) Island . It is frequently abbreviated as SSI.

Salt Spring Island was first settled in 1859, primarily by farmers. In the early years it was settled by many different groups including a number of African-Americans and then a number of Hawaiians and settled on Salt Spring and a number of other gulf islands. In the 1960s and 1970s there was a large influx of back to the landers who lived either in informal communes or squatted. Many of these people have settled and have become a large part of the culture of Salt Spring. Since the 1970s Salt Spring has attracted a large number of artists, and has become more and more of a tourist destination and retirement spot for the wealthy. This dichotomy of large developments for the hordes of people who want to get away from the development of the city has created a certain amount of conflict. However the island is still primarily characterized by the artists and farmers.

The main town, in the centre of the island, is Ganges. In the south of the island is a small cluster of shops around Fulford Harbour. To the north-west is a cluster, Vesuvius. To the east is the ferry dock at Long Harbour.

• Salt Spring Island Tourism Board Centre | 121 Lower Ganges Road ☎ +1 250-537-5252 +1-866-216-2936 Opening Hours: daily, 9AM – 5PM (July–August), 10AM – 4PM (April–June, September–October), 11AM – 3PM (November–March) Friendly and helpful volunteers can provide maps, give directions, answer questions, and give recommendations. Free parking in the shopping centre lot, plus many shops and restaurants within easy walking distance.

• Look for the Salt Spring Studio Tour brochure on the ferry you take to the island, or at the Salt Spring Island Tourism Board Centre, or download it from their web site. Quite apart from the list of studios and Cafes which you can visit, it has a quite serviceable map of the island.

Travel to Salt Spring Island

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Salt Spring Island

The most common way to get to Salt Spring Island is by BC Ferries. There are 3 separate routes that serve Salt Spring Island. The ferry from Swartz Bay (1/2 hour drive North of Victoria) to Fulford Harbour runs about every 2 hours from 7AM to 9PM. The route from Crofton (near Duncan (British Columbia)|Duncan) runs roughly hourly from about 7:30AM to about 10PM. The Southern Gulf Island route runs from Tsawwassen (near Vancouver) to various locations of the gulf island that includes a stop at Long Harbour on Salt Spring Island. This sails about twice daily.

Salt Spring is a popular destination for private boaters. There are public marinas at Ganges and Fulford (at the southern end of the island), with limited moorage, and two private marinas in Ganges Harbor that allow transient boaters.

• Saltspring Marina, next to Moby's Pub and Hastings House Country House Hotel — managed by Lesley Cheeseman for over 20 years and due to be rebuilt in 2011 — open to transient boaters as well as yacht clubs and local year-round moorage.
• Ganges Marina, closest to town.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Salt Spring Island

There is no airport on Salt Spring Island, but float planes fly into Ganges Harbour. This includes regular scheduled service from the Harbour in downtown Vancouver, from Seattle and from the Float plane terminal at the South Terminal of the Vancouver Airport.

• Harbour Air, 604-274-1277 flies twice daily from Vancouver Harbour to the Gulf Islands which includes Ganges Harbour.
• Seair, 1-800-447-3247 flies three times a day from the Vancouver Airport to the Gulf Islands which includes Ganges Harbour.
• Saltspring Air, 1-877-537-9880 based out of Ganges on Saltspring Island. This local airline provides service 3 times a day to Maple Bay, Vancouver airport and downtown.
• Kenmore Air provides service from Lake Union in Seattle to Ganges in the summer only.

Most of these planes are pretty small, so it is not unreasonable to charter a plane to be on your schedule.

Get Around

A car is usually the easiest way to get to the different parts of Salt Spring Island. If you don't bring your own and there are a small number of cars available for hire.

• Salt Spring Car Rentals | Salt Spring Marina, Ganges beside the marina office ☎ +1 250 537-5810 +1-800-334-6629 $55-125/day, depending on type of vehicle Economy, mid-size cars, large-size cars, vans and SUVs available for rent. Convertibles and scooters also available in the summer.

The Salt Spring Island Transit System (BC Transit) (+1 250 538-4282) operates six bus routes that connect Ganges with each of the three ferry terminals as well as Fernwood. The service is very handy for getting to and from the ferries because the bus times coincide with ferry arrivals and departures. It's not as useful for other trips, as most routes only operate three or four times a day and it does not service outlying attractions like Ruckle Provincial Park, Mt Maxwell and the Sacred Lavender farm. Fare costs $2.25.

There are also a number of taxi companies that can shuttle you around the island.

• Silver Shadow Taxi | ☎ +1 250-537-3030

It is popular for visitors to get around Salt Spring on bicycle. The roads on the island tend to be narrow, hilly and quite twisty, so one needs to take care when riding a bicycle.

It is also quite common for people to hitch-hike around the island and you will probably be picked up in 5-10 minutes anywhere on the island (other than where traffic is exiting a ferry onto Salt Spring).

What to see in Salt Spring Island

• Artist Studio Tour, get the Salt Spring Studio Tour map on ferry. This is a self-guided tour of over 30 different artist studios. The hours and days vary from artist to artist. This is also a very good map of Salt Spring Island. Artists studios vary from painters, sculptures, potters to speciality Cheese makers. Most artists studios are open May to September, some are available year around.

• Sacred Mountain Lavender | 401 Musgrave Road 5 min from Fulford Harbour ☎ +1 250 653-2334 | Opening Hours: May-September Wed-Sun10-5 free Sacred Mountain Lavender is a boutique lavender farm nestled on the foothills of sacred Mount Tuam on Salt Spring Island B.C. Enjoy a self-guided farm tour and indulge in the rich purple of 2 acres of organically-grown lavender, which blooms from June to September.

Best things to do in Salt Spring Island

• Kayak to nearby Russell Island, located in the mouth of Fulford Harbour. Russell Island is part of Gulf Islands National Park Reserve and features gorgeous examples of second-growth Douglas fir, arbutus and Garry oak trees. A gentle loop trail hugs the island's shore, and takes you to the historic Mahoi House. Here, descendants of Maria Mahoi — one of the island's original Hawaiian (Kanaka) settlers — host an interpretive program for visitors. The Russell Island Host Program runs from early June until early September.

• Island Escapades | 163 Fulford-Ganges Road ☎ +1 250-537-2553 +1-888-KAYAK-67 2 hour kayak tour $55/person Guided kayaking tours, lessons, rentals, sailing excursions. Plus they can connect you to other activities such as SCUBA diving. Also an outdoor gear shop.

• Swim
• Hike
• Fall Fair a traditional country fair with a Salt Spring flavor. Held around the last weekend of summer or the first weekend of fall. It is held at a very nice fair grounds that has a number of buildings and a few show areas. There are judging of entries in everything from baking, and vegetables to equestrian and livestock. The food and craft stands are quite good. There is also music all day long

• Salt Spring market - Held every Saturday from May to October in Ganges.

• Climbing — Salt Spring Island offers British Columbia's only cobble rock climbing area; that is, climbing on walls made of a dense matrix of smooth pebbles. Other climbing opportunities are found near the top of Mount Maxwell Park.

• scenic plane ride - For that aerial perspective, try the floatplane scenic tour.

• Yoga- Attend a yoga retreat, yoga teacher training program or other spiritual event at the Salt Spring Centre of Yoga. The Centre offers accommodation and meals for its residential programs, but also hosts short events for commuters.

Halal Restaurants in Salt Spring Island

Most of the eateries on the island are in Ganges.

• Embe Bakery | 174 Fulford-Ganges Road 48.851999, -123.499989 ☎ +1 250-537-5611 | Opening Hours: Monday - Sat: 4:30AM - 5:30PM, Sun: 6:30AM - 3PM Delicious sweet buns, cookies, pies, as well as lunch sandwiches. They will happily pack baked goods to go.

• Express Sushi2go | expresssushi2@ 120-170 Fulford Ganges Road 48.851647, -123.500592 ☎ +1 250 538-1688 A variety of well-executed Japanese food; teriyaki and tempura in addition to sushi. A few counter seats in the micro-shop if you want to eat right away.

• House Piccolo - 108 Hereford Avenue 48.853852, -123.500757 A short walk uphill (inland) from Lower Ganges Road, in a small blue house. ☎ +1 250-537-1844 | Opening Hours: Weds-Sun 5pm on, Monday to Tue closed. entrees $25-40, full meal $60-100 inc tax, tip - This cozy 30-seat dining room delivers exquisite food with a combination of white-tablecloth service and friendly, laid-back island informality. The published menu is long on seafood and game, but the kitchen knows vegans and Vegetarian exist, and will likely be able to accommodate if you ask. Reservations recommended, because many people know how good this place is.

• Tree House Cafe 106 Purvis Ln Ganges ☎ +1 250 537-5379
• Al's Gourmet Falafel & Fries - 151 Rainbow Road 48.854297, -123.503695 ☎ +1 250 538-7573 | Opening Hours: Monday to Friday11am-4pm, Saturday 10am-4pm (at market), Sunday closed $5-12 - This red card offers falafel, pita, and poutine. Some vegan-friendly options. On Saturdays and the cart is at the community market in Centennial park.

• Saturday Market 48.852805, -123.499433 In Centennial Park, on the harbour side of Lower Ganges Road, near intersection with McPhillips Ave Opening Hours: Saturday 8:30am-4pm (April-Oct) various - This community market includes, among the clothing and jewelry and art, various food vendors. You can get anything from a piece of fudge to a full helping of Pasta or stir-fried noodles.

However there are a few restaurants in other parts of the island:

• Fernwood Road Cafe - 325 Fernwood Road 48.915550, -123.533427 On the east coast of northern Salt Spring Island, where Fernwood Road intersects Walter's Hook Road. ☎ +1 250 931-2233 | Opening Hours: (Sept-May) Monday to Tue 9am-5pm, Wednesday closed, Thu-Fri 9am-5pm, Saturday to Sun 10am-5pm $5-12 - Offering comfort food and a place for the community to meet. Breakfast includes oatmeal, french toast, and grilled potatoes. Lunch includes sandwiches, Pizzas, tuna melt, and salads. Vegetarian options available.

• Falconshead Grill & Lounge open to the public at the SSI Golf & Country Club (Central), 537-1760
• Rendezvous French Patisserie | 126 Upper Ganges Road at Harbour's End Marina ☎ +1 250 537-8400 | Opening Hours: Monday 9AM - 4:30PM, Tue-Fri: 9AM - 4:30PM Breakfast and lunch. French macarons, cannelés de Bordeaux, crêpes, croissants. They also sell at the weekend market.

• Rock Salt Cafe - 2921 Fulford-Ganges Road 48.769568, -123.449479 In Fulford ☎ +1 250 653-4833 | Opening Hours: Daily, Breakfast 8-11:30am, lunch 11:30am-4:30pm, dinner 4:30-9pm; cafe opens at 7:00am Price entrées $15-25 - Mocated near the ferry terminal at Fulford Harbour, this might be a good place to catch a bite when you first arrive on-island, or just before you leave. The eclectic menu has vegan-friendly options and kid menus, along the seafood, Steaks, and burgers. The café opens earlier than the restaurant, for coffee and pastries.

• Morningside Organic Bakery and Café 107 Morningside Road In Fulford ☎ +1 250 653-4414
• Falconshead Grill & Lounge at the SSI Golf & Country Club - one of the few licensed patios on the island that actually has sun all afternoon. A nice casual place with excellent food and great service - Open to the public - 7 days a week - all year long (no guarantees on the sunshine). Ask Jesse about the Special of the Day.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Salt Spring Island

Salt Spring Island - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Salt Spring Island, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Salt Spring Island. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Salt Spring Island and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Salt Spring Island. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Salt Spring Island. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inSalt Spring Island: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Salt Spring Island.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Salt Spring Island: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Salt Spring Island, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Salt Spring Island.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Salt Spring Island, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Salt Spring Island, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Salt Spring Island and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Salt Spring Island, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Salt Spring Island, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Salt Spring Island without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Salt Spring Island is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Salt Spring Island.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Salt Spring Island is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Salt Spring Island, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Salt Spring Island Media: info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

There are Bed and Breakfasts spread throughout the island. There are also a number of vacation homes and cottages.

• Garden Faire Campground | 305 Rainbow Road next to Mouat Park ☎ +1 250 537-4346 - $20 tent, $25 RV
• Lost & Found Guest House & Art Gallery | Salt Spring Island ☎ +1 250-537-9440 - $180 A self contained guest house with a full kitchen, bathroom, washer and dryer. Sleeps 7. It features the art work of artists such as Robert Bateman, Heather Horton, Alan Bateman, Holly Carr, Andrew Scott, Kate Kennedy.

• Harbour House Hotel | 121 Upper Ganges Road Located right beside Ganges Harbour ☎ +1 250 537-5571 - Summer rooms start at $120 Has 36 Renovated Rooms with large balconies

• Ango Retreat Bed & Breakfast | 340 Lepage Road North on North End Road to the top of St. Mary Lake, right on Lepage Rd. Keep going to the very end of this dead-end country road and turn into the driveway on the left ☎ +1 250-537-0022 - $195. per day, for occupancy up to 4 people Check-in: 4PM / Check-out: 11AM 20 acres of panoramic water, mountain & meadow views at the end of a forested country lane. Beautiful west coast style self-contained, self-catering, wheelchair-accessible bed & breakfast guest suites. Free wireless internet, private entrances & decks, fully-equipped kitchens. Fresh air & birds galore, gorgeous sunrises over the water, forest paths, organic gardens, cozy wood stoves, and separate music studio with resident concert pianist and concert Steinway grand piano.

• Salt Springs Spa Resort | 1481 North Beach Road North Island near Fernwood Dock +1-800-665-0039from $100 per day Check-in: 4PM / Check-out: 11AM Salt Spring Island's seaside spa resort features ocean-view and forest-view chalets, each with their own cozy wood-burning fireplace, complete kitchen and two person mineral water hydro-jet spa bath.

• Hastings House | 160 Upper Ganges Road 48.8591, -123.4997 +1-800-661-9255 Check-in: 10AM / Check-out: 2PM Sussex-style Manor House overlooking Ganges Harbour. Eighteen guest rooms and suites, each with its own décor, in seven buildings around the estate.

• On Island Time Cottage - 115 King Road 48.767508, -123.402620 ☎ +1 250 653-4561 Checkin - 4pm / Check-out: noon $175/night - This open-frame cottage offers two adults the amenities for a cozy, relaxing getaway, including a private hot tub, a gas fire, a nook for reading, and bad cell phone reception. 2 night stay minimum (3 nights on long weekends)

Telecommunications in Salt Spring Island

The area code for Salt Spring is (250) -- same as Vancouver Island. Cell phone coverage is spotty on the island. Telus provides the best coverage on the island. Rogers provides some coverage on their GSM network.

Travel Next

• Hop aboard a BC Ferry and travel to nearby Mayne, Pender or Saturna Islands to explore Gulf Islands National Park Reserve (GINPR) . Gulf Islands National Park Reserve offers incredible opportunities for boating, kayaking, hiking, wildlife viewing and picnicking, as well as for adventuring these rural island communities.

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