Saturna
Island is accessible by Ferry from Victoria, British Columbia.
To get to Saturna Island, go to the B.C.
Ferries terminal in Swartz Bay where a ferry will take you
to Lyall Harbour. The trip length varies depending on the time
and route chosen. (The Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal is approximately
25 minutes north of downtown Victoria and 2 hours
or more from Vancouver.) Saturna has parks, beaches, marinas,
lots of parks and natural areas.
Saturna's
mild climate and quality accommodations make this Island a destination
for special occasions and retreats all year round. A rural hideaway
with abundant wildlife and breathtaking natural beauty, Saturna
features scenic walks, spectacular views and easy-access beaches.
Rent a kayak and tour the coastline, play a game of tennis, or
shop for local arts and crafts at local galleries. Amenities
include two general stores, a pub overlooking the ocean, a bakery,
a cafe and a fine-dining restaurant. Saturna Vineyard offers
tours and tasting at the wineshop.
Population: Saturna is the second largest and the least
populated of the Gulf Islands with a current population of just
over 300. It is also one of the most beautiful of the Gulf
Islands. The sculptured shoreline at East Point, the spectacular
view from Mount Warburton Pike or the scenic views at Winter Cove, GINPR (Gulf Islands National Park Reserve), make Saturna is a treasure amidst the Gulf Islands.
The
name Saturna comes from the Spanish sailing ship Saturnina, which
was under the command of Jose Maria Narvaez during his exploration
of the Pacific Northwest coastline in 1791. Pioneer settlement
began in the late 1800's, and the first and largest land owner
was Warburton Pike and several of the Payne brothers. Since
a quarry closed in the mid-60's, the Island has been primarily
residential.
Saturna
provides a modest selection of excellent accommodations.
It is the lack of commercialism that gives Saturna its unique
charm.
Winter Cove, GINPR is a must-see. The hiking trail takes you
to a view point over looking Boat Passage. When the tidal
currents are running, the water screams through the narrow passage.
You can view marine life from the rocks. The views
from Mount Warburton Pike
are second to none. You can see all the way to Victoria
with spectacular views of both the
San Juan and Gulf Islands. East Point Light Station has
awe-some scenery and is at the entrance to Haro Straight.
Large ships pass by fairly close to shore and whales frequent
the area in the summer months. Deer and wild turkeys are
common sights and when on Mount Warburton Pike, watch for the
feral goats that wander the woods. They are descendants
from domestic goats that went wild almost 100 years ago.
You can drive to the summit (around 500 meters) or hike up through
the forest ecological reserve. At the peak is the CH TV
rebroadcast station.
Saturna
is famous for its Canada Day Lamb Barbecue which has been an annual
event for over 50 years. Now held in Winter Cove, GINPR,
the barbecue still has a small country fair atmosphere.
The volunteer fire department runs two pig barbecues annually.
On the long weekends in May and November the Community Hall is
the site of a spit-roasted whole pig dinner and dance.
The roast appears ritualistic with split pigs on a spit over hot
coals.
There
is only one campground on Saturna Island, one at Navarez Bay, GINPR with 7 campsites. There is another at nearby Cabbage Island, GINPR with 5 campsites. Check out the Current Map/Hiking and Camping Information Brochure for additional information.
Relax
in the sun or take a peaceful stroll along the beautiful sandy
beach at Thompson Park.
Most
of the cultural activities take place in the Community Hall which
is very close to the Ferry terminal. In July and August
there is a market every Saturday at the Community Hall.
Home produce and crafts are for sale. There are four studio/galleries
and a fall Artist's studio Tour.
Saturna
just has to be experienced or your visit to the Islands will be
incomplete.
Saturna
Island Businesses || Accommodations || Home || Why
Go
Two useful sites with additional information are the GINPR site and Parks Canada
Saturna Island Tourism, Box 45, Saturna Island, phone: (250) 539-5577, E-mail
Saturna Island's moderate climate and many quality accommodations make it an ideal year-round destination for that special retreat or quiet weekend getaway. For a brochure write Box 45,Saturna,BC V0N 2Y0.
You
can also go by air from services in Victoria and Vancouver. A local seaplane company also does island runs. If you are on some of the Gulf
Islands, you can reach Salt Spring Island by water
taxi.
Saturna
Island Location
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Top
Saturna
Island Temperature
Temperature:
The Gulf Islands have the highest year round temperatures in
Canada. The Islands have a cool Mediterranean climate with four
distinct seasons. Due to topography, the climate varies throughout
the island. Generally points of land nearest the ocean are the
mildest due to the moderating effect of the water.
