The Gulf Islands are a group of mountainous islands situated across the Strait of Georgia between Vancouver Island and the mainland of southern British Columbia. They are part of a larger archipelago that features the San Juan Islands just to the south in Washington State. By the way the easiest way to get to is Saltspring Island – also well known as Canada’s arts and crafts island. Its mellow pace, breathtaking landscapes have drawn artists from all over the world. It has recently become the haunt of several Hollywood film stars.

The next island is Bucolic Mayne Island with medley of rock bays, forested hills and once the agriculture hub of the area. Saturna Island is tucked away at the southern end of the island chain. This one is very rural, sparsely populated and difficult to reach.

The Pender Islands, also emerged as the ”Friendly Islands” have over 20 public ocean access spots to visit along its beaches and coves. The Penders are great hotbed for outdoor activities. Galiano Island (displayed in the picture above) has always enjoyed a reputation for being the most welcoming to visitors. The early settlers opened their homes to tourists as a way of earning a living.

As a group the Gulf Islands are still underdeveloped and many of the best lodges and restaurants are hidden away down forests tracks.

When to go: All year round, although the islands are little crowded in summer.