I hate to admit this, but I live in British Columbia and not once have I explored the Sunshine Coast or the Gulf Islands. I guess I never saw the immediate need because these destinations are in “our backyard”. However, recent Summer events invited us to stay-cation and see a side of BC not yet known to me.
First, one of my best friends moved to Sechelt, which I promise to cover in another blog post. Instead, I’d love to share more on the beautiful weekend we spent on Galiano Island for a friend’s wedding. While BC Ferries is expensive, I can’t deny how beautiful the views are on the way over. Feel free to flip through the photos, each slide section has more than a few to view.
For those who don’t know (aka. me), Galiano is one of the biggest Gulf Islands. But size isn’t everything! Galiano is as small town as they come. There are few accommodations on the island, so book well in advance. Less lodging is tricky, but explains how this gorgeous escape remains so quaint. No matter, the limitations gave us the perfect excuse to stay at the stunning Bodega Ridge. A convenient choice since it was the wedding venue.
Scott and I arrived on the Friday afternoon for a welcome BBQ. The couple arranged the welcome event as a meet and greet for friends and family before the big day. We arrived early, giving us plenty of time to check-in and explore the grounds.
The staff was busy setting up, but were so helpful and wonderful. No detail overlooked, they even had warm cookies to share with guests upon arrival. We managed to catch sneak peeks of the BBQ event. I can’t begin to describe how magical the setting was. I better let the photos speak for themselves.
Our cabin was a cute little thing that appeared to grow as walked inside. Much more spacious than we thought, our cabin would hold six people for the weekend. It could easily house eight if people chose to crash on the couches. No judgement, it was a wedding weekend after all!
Since we arrived first, we scoped out the rooms. We settled on an upstairs bedroom with beautiful lighting and a private balcony – jackpot!
After a late first night, Scott and I wasted most of the next day sleeping in. Our cabin mates were much more active! When we emerged, we heard stories of their hikes or excursions to the beach – noted for our next visit.
Bodega Ridge cabins come with little kitchens. Our cabin mates were smart and brought groceries to cook. We were hungry and had errands to run, so we went into town for brunch.
Scott and I packed last minute on Thursday evening. I forgot shampoo and conditioner, assuming the resort would supply them like a hotel. Bodega Ridge only supplied soap and towels, so a warning to those who visit Galiano Island – come prepared! The island is cute, but forgetting something could cost you an hour long round trip into town.
Mistake or not, Scott and I still had to eat. We settled on Babes in the Woods – a sweet little restaurant near the ferry terminal. Babes in the Woods was worth the drive out. Their huevos rancheros on an oven cooked pizza crust was delicious. The perfect hangover food!
After eating and buying toiletries, we drove back to Bodega Ridge to get ready for the wedding.
You’ll notice I have no photos to share of the wedding. Respecting the wishes of the bride and groom, I chose to remain present throughout the day. Besides, they had a wonderful photographer who promised to share the photos. You’ll have to trust me when I say it was an elegant affair that captured the couple perfectly. 😉
I never thought to explore Galiano before my friend’s wedding, but now I can’t wait to go back. After doing a little research and gathering recommendations, our list grew to include:
- Hike Mount Galiano
- Kayak around the island
- Picnic on a beach
- Eat at Pilgrimme
We can’t exclude the other Gulf Islands now. I’m curious, which of the Gulf Islands have you been to? What adventures would you suggest?