Salt Spring Island Day Trip...

On a rainy weekday morning last week we got up at the crack of dawn and headed out to the ferry to spend the day on one of the Gulf Islands.

Salt Spring Island is a short scenic 35 minute ferry ride from The Swartz Bay terminal.

The island is the largest of our Gulf Islands and it is very lush and green.
A popular spot for many who are fortunate enough to call it home...
and a lovely place to go for a visit.

Many of the homes along the waterfront have low bank beach access with private docks while others with expansive water views, are built high up on the cliffs that plunge sharply to the sea.

SSI is home to a diverse mix of locals... from affluent celebrities, talented writers, gifted artists, wealthy retirees, farmers, vintners, potters, quilters, organic produce growers, "back to the earth" hippies, professionals, chefs, gardeners, families, teachers and the list goes on...
definitely an eclectic group... which makes for a very "colourful" community.

Mr. HB had business on the island so I tagged along for the ride...
While he worked, I walked and explored the galleries and shops in Ganges which is the retail hub of the island.
It was a quiet day as not that many people were out and about.
Perhaps it was the rain...
but then I am comparing it to the busy summer season
when tourists are on their holidays and the marinas are full of boats.

There are some lovely women's shops with sumptuous imported linen garments in fashionable styles.
Shoes, scarves, hats, and stylish accessories.
Many of which are beyond my budget...but it is fun to browse.

There are two thrift shops...
well worth perusing
as you never know what you are going to find.

There was an adorable bright pink and lime green classic Lily Pulitzer sheath dress,
alas it was too small.
Lots of designer labels and most in good condition, some of the pieces I recognized from last season.

I did find an Eileen Fisher "jacket"....
very simple and in a versatile navy for under $20.

Mr. HB and I met for lunch at Auntie Pesto's on the waterfront overlooking the marina.
The food was tasty and the half portion of pasta that I opted for was more than adequate.
Judging by the crowd that were dining there it must be a favourite with the locals.

After lunch we walked the docks and looked at boats before heading back to Fulford Harbour to catch the ferry.

Fulford Harbour is quite small and features a couple of funky shops,
a mercantile store, book shop, restaurant and a cafe.

After we parked the car in the line up, we poked our heads into all the wee shops and had a good look around.
There was a surprise in one of the shops... a yellow silk scarf!
The one that I have been hunting for to wear with my navy coat and yellow walking shoes.

Who would have thought that I would find it on a Gulf Island?

If you get the opportunity to visit Salt Spring Island try to make time to drive around the entire island.

Perhaps you'll find a charming B and B in which to stay for a few days

or if you have "deep pockets" you can stay at Hastings House

 a luxurious spot that has beautiful gardens and a Spa.

Mr. HB and I stayed there one long weekend in May many years ago and we both felt so pampered...

our suite was in The Post House

the grounds are beautiful

the food was delicious and the service impeccable.

 The Farmer's Market is held on Saturdays from April until October.

You will find jewelry, paintings, jams, crafts, clothing, collectibles, food, spices, soaps and more...

it is held on Saturdays in Ganges.

It is a "must see" if you are on the island.

If you need any more information on SSI go here.

 you will find places to stay and things to do.

Thank you for stopping by The Humble  Bungalow Blog.

~ Be Well and Be Kind ~