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Galiano Island, Gulf Islands, Active Pass, BC, Canada |
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Written by Casey Beam
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Friday, 25 June 2010 08:05 |
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Galiano Island is a long, fairly thin, island of 57 sq km. It is the second largest of the big islands that shelters some of the other islands from the Strait of Georgia winds. Galiano Island lies just east of busy Salt Spring Island and southwest of the BC Mainland.
by CaseyBeam
Galiano Island is a long, fairly thin, island of 57 sq km. It is the second largest of the big islands that shelters some of the other islands from the Strait of Georgia winds. Galiano Island lies just east of busy Salt Spring Island and southwest of the BC Mainland.
The island's dramatic coastline has sheer cliffs; sand, pebble and white-shell beaches; sheltered bays and unusual sandstone formations. Douglas fir, arbutus and rare, native Garry oak flourish in the dense, inland forests. Galiano is a 50-minute ferry ride from Tsawwassen at Sturdies Bay, where you can find accommodations, markets and gasoline.
Galiano Island is considered by many to be the for the most part the most beautiful of the Gulf Islands. You may think so too once you set your eyes on Montague Harbour Provincial Marine Park, a 97-hectare park with pristine beaches, lush forests, meadows, a tidal lagoon, and a network of beautiful, romantic walks. Bluffs Park is another fine example of Galiano's remarkable parks and features a hiking trail and a view of Active Pass. For a more challenging hike, follow the trail to the top of Mount Galiano; your reward is a panoramic view.
Galiano, like Mayne, is located on Georgia Strait and has panoramic views back to Vancouver/Lower Mainland and Coastal mountains. A more protected oceanfront options is found to the west, facing Trincomali Channel and looking across to Salt Spring Islands.
Galinao is well-known for its Heritage Forest preserves, and its several marine park reserves. A less familiar one is the Dionisio Marine Park, home of the breathtaking Coon Bay, just where Porlier Pass enters into the Georgia Strait.
Galiano Island is roughly half way between Vancouver and Victoria and the most northerly of the Southern Gulf Islands. To get to the Gulf Islands you must board B.C. Ferries. The trip length varies depending on the time and route chosen. The Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal is roughly 25 minutes north of the Victoria's downtown.
Wildlife is plentiful. Eagles soar over the island. Otters, seals and orcas swim in the ocean. The island is a birdwatchers paradise with over 130 species of birds. Whale watching is exceptional in Active Pass.
Walkers, hikers and cyclists enjoy the gentle country roads and trails that lead to awesome ridges and viewpoints, breathe taking sculptured sandstone cliffs, coves and sheltered beaches. Strong currents and temperate waters provide variety and abundance of marine life that is quite exceptional.
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Now the question that you may be asking yourself is where do you find more information on this topic? Click this link for more information on the Galiano Island? To widen your search to the coast of BC in general go here! Around Vancouver Island |
