Monday, April 18, 2016

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 ~


15 comments:

Julie said...

Love those yellow shoes!

LPC said...

Beautiful photos, looks like a beautiful place. And yellow and navy - such a great color combination.

Madame Là-bas said...

I love Saltspring Island. There used to be Women's Yoga Retreats at the Saltspring Centre.
I have never felt so "blissed out". Those yellow shoes would be an encouragement to walk. So bright and sunny!

Pondside said...

Saltspring is one of our favourites for an early fall getaway. I like to go for the Apple Festival and stay for the weekend.
The scarf is perfect!

Anonymous said...

How do I place a bid on the Chanel auction for Ellie?

Rosie said...

So glad you finally found a yellow silk scarf ..It really suits you. I've had such an enjoyable tour with you this morning ...all whilst relaxing with a coffee in town! Saltspring looks a wonderful place to visit ..I'll definitely add it to my list for when we travel to your part of the world...
I too enjoy "tagging along" occasionally when hubby goes somewhere interesting for work!
Have a good week!
Rosie

Rosie said...

So glad you finally found a yellow silk scarf ..It really suits you. I've had such an enjoyable tour with you this morning ...all whilst relaxing with a coffee in town! Saltspring looks a wonderful place to visit ..I'll definitely add it to my list for when we travel to your part of the world...
I too enjoy "tagging along" occasionally when hubby goes somewhere interesting for work!
Have a good week!
Rosie

Stephen Andrew said...

It's funny how if you keep to it, thrifted and vintage items of desire will always find their way to you in your budget. I've experienced that countless times, though perhaps not with such a quick turnaround!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

You will need to visit The Vintage Contessa's blog where she is taking bids.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I like to think of it like we put it out there and are open to receiving and eventually it shows up...but it can backfire too. If I go thrift shopping with one specific thing in mind I often do not see the real bargains that await discovery.
I do love the thrill of the hunt though...

galant said...

Love your yellow shoes. I would love a pair like that. What make are they? Are they available in the UK, I wonder? And the silk scarf with our navy coat is wonderful.
Margaret P

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

They are made by Josef Siebel...not sure if they are sold in the UK.
Good luck and I know that Siebel makes comfy shoes in a wide variety of bright colours.

Susan B said...

It looks like such a lovely spot! That yellow scarf is fabulous, and the color suits you.

KSL said...

You have such wonderful places to visit that are so close by. Great find (yellow scarf)

No Sacrifice Bags said...

You're lucky to be able to wear yellow.
I once bought a Kate Spade kaftan in bright yellow, and knew it looked dreadful on me; but I bought it anyway. The first time I wore it, my best friend truthfully told me I looked horrible in yellow, so into the drop box it went.