Cycling, Walking and Sea-Kayaking in an Archipelago of Natural Wonders
Get away from it all! Journey to a place where lush forests meet the deep blue sea, sail away to the beauty and tranquility of the Gulf Islands. Pedal along quiet roads, past orchards and farms, and paddle on sparkling waters. Explore lush rain forests, staggering vistas and gently lapping shorelines as you walk the quiet trails. Be sure to save some time to explore the wonderful artists studios and galleries in search of that perfect souvenir. Fill your days with experiences you’ll treasure forever.
Salt Spring Island, BC, Canada
Day 1+2
Galiano Island, BC, Canada
Day 3+4+5
| Start any day between Apr 15 and Oct 31 |
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| Custom trips are also available and can start any date, call or email for details. |
Total Days
Arrive/Depart
Activity LevelModerate
Cycling: 40 km (25 mi)
Walking: 4 to 7 hours
Kayaking: 4 hours
TerrainThis is a hilly region with moderate to challenging hills every day
CostClassic Accommodation: CAD $1,990
Single Supplement: CAD $520
Luxe Accommodation: CAD $2,460
Single Supplement: CAD $620
Bike Rentals
Hybrid Bikes: CAD $200
Racing Bikes: CAD $300
E-Bikes*: CAD $320
Prices are per person before tax. British Columbia applies a 5% GST.
*E-bikes are generally available but are on an ‘on request basis ‘ and will be confirmed on receipt of your booking registration. E-bikes provided are the best rentals available in the region. Our regular fleet of hybrid and race bikes are fun to ride and light and fast, but if having an e-bike will make your trip, we’ll do our best to provide. E-bike rentals are non-refundable.
Getting There
This itinerary includes visits to both Salt Spring and Galiano Islands. You can reach either island from Victoria (via the Swartz Bay ferry terminal) or from Vancouver (via the Tsawwassen ferry terminal). Depending on hotel availability and ferry schedules, we may run this trip in reverse; however, the experience remains the same, as you’ll be taking the same ferry routes. For current schedules and fares, please visit BC Ferries.
Salt Spring Island
Your bikes will be waiting for you at your first hotel and the Area Manager will either meet you at the hotel or provide a virtual orientation. You can cycle the northern end of Salt Spring, which will give you a wonderful introduction to the charm of this idyllic place. Enjoy dinner in Ganges at the iconic Treehouse Café, where there is often live music.
Salt Spring Island
This tour is all about options. If you want to ride and hike, cycle down to the southern end of the island and hike in Ruckle Park. If you’d rather take a local shuttle there and back, this is an option. You can kayak in the afternoon right in Ganges on a 1/2 day or sunset tour (additional fee). Dinner options are plentiful in Ganges.
Galiano Island
You have many options today on Galiano. Our recommendation is to cycle over to the base of Mt. Galiano and then hike up with a picnic on top. If you’d rather hike there, we have a beautiful easy-going trail to suggest should you wish to save cycling for the next day. Dinner is included in the hotel tonight.
Galiano Island
Cycle over to Montague Harbour, for a pre-booked guided sea-kayak tour (included) to learn about the marine life in this magical place. After your tour, we suggest lunch at idyllic Crane and Robin. In the afternoon, explore more of Galiano on bike, or ride back to Sturdies Bay and relax at the inn. For your final night dinner, you may wish to try Pilgrimme, rated one of the top restaurants in Canada, and in a remarkable forest setting. Does it get any better?
Depart
After breakfast, depart at your leisure.
This 3-star hotel is modest, yet comfortable and has a great location close to town; they have a new organic garden and restaurant, but the Luxe choice (Hastings House) is definitely worthwhile if you want to splurge.
This luxurious oceanfront resort and spa features large guest rooms, each with a breath-taking view, wood burning fireplaces, and a casually elegant décor. The restaurant has been receiving rave reviews for its inspired West Coast cuisine.
*Luxe Accommodation
A luxury waterfront lodge, spa and restaurant on 22 acres close to the village of Ganges. It is a magnificent 11th century Sussex-style Manor House overlooking peaceful Ganges harbour. Member of Small Luxury Hotels; Relais & Chateaux.
This luxurious oceanfront resort and spa features large guest rooms, each with a breath-taking view, wood burning fireplaces, and a casually elegant décor. The restaurant has been receiving rave reviews for its inspired West Coast cuisine.
Tour Reviews
“We were in Gulf Islands Heaven! The Area Managers were wonderful – very accommodating and helpful – and our kayaking experience was superior.”
“We had a great time. There was not a single glitch. Your area managers were wonderful. We enjoyed both bed & breakfasts – they were very different but each nice in its own way. You did a great job with the weather too! We are giving your name to our friends.”
“Everything was well coordinated with pickups for transfers of us and luggage. The taxi driver (in Salt Spring) is a hoot and very knowledgeable for our needs and questions. Our Area Manager and the staff at Woodstone Manor were able to do a marvelous job of working around our final nights’ changed dinner plan to get a delicious meal delivered to enjoy outdoors with heaters, blankets, and wine. The ebike performed well and made this trip great for me. Our Travel Advisor/Area Manager was extraordinary in her communication from the first inquiry about the trip. Her response to a bike issue we had was exceptional.”
“Well planned, great accommodations, excellent value. Wonderful hiking and lots to see and do, especially on Salt Spring. Gorgeous bikes! You made it easy to enjoy the spectacular beauty of these islands.”
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