Salt Spring Island Market, BC
The Largest of the Gulf Islands is Perfect to Buy Artists’ Wares
Apr 8, 2008
The Salt Spring Island Market in downtown Ganges, BC, is a fun way to spend the day. Local artists and vendors sell their wares, love to chat about the island, and create a relaxed atmosphere to pick up a gift or just wander around the colourful tables. The one rules is, you must “make it, bake it, or grow it" yourself in order to sell there, so all products are handmade and locally produced.
You can usually catch live music by locals strumming their guitars and entertaining the crowds. Kids can play in the park beside the market, or wind their way through the path to look at all the crafts, art, jewellery, and organic food. It’s a family day, above all, where you can speak to the artists themselves, some of whom sell their work all over the world. Head to Centennial Park in Ganges from the end of March until October to take part in this market.
Artists at the Salt Spring Island Market
Some highlights of the market are:
Pure Spa: Terra Dimock’s massage and skin care products are a treat when staying on Salt Spring Island. Trained in Holistic Nutrition, Western Herbalism, Acupressure, Shiatsu Therapy, Relaxation Massage, Hydrotherapy, and Earcandling, many treatments are available. She can come to your hotel room (and works with Hastings House Country House Hotel, see below) or another convenient location. Her earthstar skincare line is also worth checking out, as she hand makes each batch of natural product.
Geernaerts Textile Arts: Shannon Wardroper has created some stunning work using dyed and embroidered silk. Her notebooks and keepsake boxes can be found at the market, while her wall hangings and soft furnishings are hosted in the UK and her own soon-to-be-opened Salt Spring Island gallery.
Cast in Stone: The imaginative vases made from stone are what local artist John Quinn is best known for. These industrial looking vases are one of a kind and use both slate and minerals to create remarkable pieces. He also makes gorgeous business card holders in natural stone, which could also be used for small photos.
Where to Eat in Ganges
House Piccolo (108 Hereford Avenue, 250-537-1844) is the top choice for dining in Ganges. A nice mix of European and west coast cuisine make for elegant dishes. A Helsinki native, chef Piccolo Lyytikainen opened this small 32-seat gem and has been gaining praise ever since. The puréed butternut squash soup indienne is a wonderful introduction, as the curry hint is topped with a strawberry flavoured syrup flower. Next, try the charbroiled sea scallops and cheery tomato brochettes for a satisfying seafood taste. To finish, the chocolate terrine Finlandia puts other chocolate layered gateaux to shame. A large wine list of around 250 selections accompanies the dishes and it’s best to ask the knowledgeable server for recommendations.
Where to Stay
If you really want a special vacation, Hastings House Country House Hotel will undoubtedly surpass your expectations. Scattered over 22 acres of rolling hills, enjoy harbour views, secluded living and individual service. Reservations: (250) 537-2362.
How To Get to Salt Spring Island
The most convenient way to get to Ganges on Salt Spring Island is by floatplane. Salt Spring Air offers three daily flights from downtown Vancouver and Vancouver International Airport, which eliminates waiting for ferries. In only 35 minutes, you get to gaze out of the windows at the fantastic view of the islands before touching down on the water and experiencing the locally owned company’s warm hospitality. Get their latest schedules by calling 1-877-537-9880.
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