The Jewel of the Gulf Islands: Galiano

Like many of the Gulf Island in Georgia Straight, off the B.C. Coast,  Galiano Island is known as an artist’s and writer’s island. It’s easy to understand how creative people have made their homes there. Galiano  has a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers. It’s a romantic island, with pretty sunsets, dramatic sandstone cliffs and lush forests of arbutus, cedar and Garry oak.  The island has several eco sensitive areas that will be protected and kept as forests.  Its network of trails and shaded lanes make it a favorite among cyclists and hikers.  There are idyllic sandy beaches and in the water surrounding the island are prime dive sites for scuba diver, especially in winter when the water is the clearest.  The island has 150+ species of birds and many protected rare plants. The islanders respect and protect the islands fragile environment.

Named after Spanish explorer Dionisio Galiano who sailed there in 1792, it’s the second largest of the Gulf Islands.  For thousands of years the island was  an important hunting and gathering spot for Coast Salish people.  At Montague Harbour where there was once an old native village, there is a Coast Salish midden. There is a Provincial Campsite at Montague Harbour and a marina with guest and long-term moorage.  The quiet cove and long stretch of white shell beach make it a favorite holiday spot.

There’s lots to do on Galiano.  Besides seven parks and miles of old logging trails and country lanes, you can go on sea kayak trips, whale watching, fishing and enjoy many other outdoor activities including golf at the Galiano Golf Club, a 9 hole course.  The island has one gas station, several grocery stores, art galleries and craft shops.  The Hummingbird Pub has live music on weekends in summer and runs buses from the Montague Harbour campsite to the pub.  There’s no bank on the island, but ATMs are available.

Spend a relaxing few days there and you’ll see why they call Galiano a ‘gem of an island.’

Galiano Bicycle Rentals: 36 Burrill Rd.  (250) 539-9906 (located within a 5 min walk from Sturdies Bay Ferry Terminal.)

Environmental Education Programs: Galiano Consevancy Association

Galiano Art Guide (to May 2010)

Galiano Wine Festival:  August 8 Wines from up and coming local producers; local cheese; music; silent auction.  Fundraiser for the Galiano Health Centre.

1 -4 pm $30 at the door or call 250-539-5976

PHOTOS: W. Ruth Kozak