Exploring Saysutshun and Gabriola Island:
A Day Trip from Nanaimo
Saysutshun Island
Visiting Saysutshun Island in the winter offers a serene and enchanting experience. The winter camping season starts January 1st, and if you get a clear sky at night, you might just witness the northern lights dancing across the sky as you sit by your campfire by the ocean. For daytime activities, the area offers a diverse selection of trails for all skill levels. Ranging from strenuous treks through dense forests to leisurely walks to the oceanfront, there are options for both adventurous hikers and those simply looking for a relaxed stroll. While the ferry isn’t in operation until April 30th, visitors have the option to travel by kayak or boat.
Gabriola Island
Just a short ferry ride from Nanaimo, Gabriola is a hidden gem brimming with undiscovered beauty and charm. The area is a haven for artists and nature enthusiasts alike, where you can explore studios, natural wonders, and local hangouts that’ll excite and inspire. With well-maintained provincial parks, the calmness of fewer crowds, and delightful dining options, winter is one of the best times of the year to come and visit.
If you’re interested in the ultimate itinerary for a day on Gabriola Island, read on.
Morning Adventures
1. Malaspina Galleries: Nature's Frozen Wave
As soon as the ferry docks, you need to visit Malaspina Galleries. This captivating sandstone rock formation perched at the ocean's edge resembles a frozen wave. It's the perfect spot for a photo-op or, for those looking for something a little more thrilling, take a walk inside the “wave” or snorkel below it.
2. Isle of the Arts
Gabriola features a unique "Yellow Flag Program" which signifies that when a yellow flag is displayed, the artist's studio is open for visitors to explore. Gabriola is home to one of the highest concentrations of artists per capita in Canada, so chances are excellent you’ll find art that resonates with your style.
Lunch at Mad Rona’s Coffee Bar: A True Local Experience
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No visit to Gabriola Island is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. For lunch, bite into local flavours with a sandwich or wrap made in-house at Mad Rona's Coffee Bar. This buzzing community hub exudes an urban West Coast vibe, complete with high ceilings, natural wood finishes, and various seating options.
Afternoon Delights
In the afternoon, you have two solid options:
1. Drumbeg Provincial Park
If you love panoramic ocean views, drive to the Island's south end and visit Drumbeg Provincial Park. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of Washington's Mt. Baker. Be on the lookout for harbour seals and bald eagles, and explore the tidepools with a short forest walk along the seashore.
2. Ravenskill Orchards: Cider Tasting
Hang with the locals and take in an experience you won’t soon forget at Ravenskill Orchards. Take a hard cider-tasting tour and discover your favourite flavour.
Evening Delights
1. Dinner at Woodfire Restaurant or Surf Lodge & Pub
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As the day winds down, that means dinner time, and you’ve got two fantastic options:
Woodfire Restaurant: Devour gourmet wood-fired pizzas crafted by a skilled French chef.
Surf Lodge & Pub: For an epic sunset over the ocean, grab a table at this friendly pub. Pair your meal with a pint and chow down on some delicious fish and chips or a mouthwatering beef dip.
Artistic Encounters and Wild Turkeys
A visit to Gabriola Island isn’t complete without dropping in on one of the many artist studios. Throughout the day, you'll have opportunities to engage with local artists who draw inspiration from the Island's beauty and creativity. And keep an eye out for another kind of local resident — wild turkeys. Don’t be surprised to cross paths with them while you’re here.
As the day comes to a close, catch the ferry back to Nanaimo, chock full of new memories. Whether you're drawn to art, nature, or local culture, Gabriola Island offers a little something for every traveller who seeks a one-of-a-kind adventure.
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