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"There is
nothing finer in the world than the scenery and grand climate here" ~
Jonathan Begg, July 16, 1860
Anyone who has visited Salt Spring knows it to be an idyllic destination
for travelers. Fulford, Ganges and Vesuvius all offer a wealth of things
to see and do ..... but in the north there is something truly special
going on !
Settled by Jonathan Begg, Henry Sampson (c. Sampson Road) and Edward
Walker (c. Walkers Hook) in 1859; Fernwood (c. Beggsville) is a
destination locale within a destination locale. Though the community
itself is only a 10 minute drive from Vesuvius Bay, and only a 15 minute
drive from Long Harbour; Fernwood is spared the sometimes overwhelming
traffic that's drawn towards Salt Spring's commercial cores in Ganges
and Fulford Villages. Not surprisingly, this has proven a blessing to
both residents of the area and the visitors who happen upon it. In fact,
the Fernwood area has successfully managed to retain it's tranquil
country charm while building a thriving community that is home to some
of Salt Spring's most unique art, food and hospitality.
Known locally for it's amazing sunsets, pristine shoreline, and abundant
wildlife; the recently upgraded Government Wharf places the community
within a stone's throw of other unspoiled destinations such as Wallace
Island, Montague Harbour and Retreat Cove.
For hungry travelers, there is the Raven Street Market Cafe, located
just steps from the wharf and near the site of Jonathan Begg's 1860
settlement. The market is well stocked with a wide assortment staples,
sundries and local crafts, but the real attraction is the cafe’s wood
burning oven which produces everything from mussels and wild salmon to
Picattas, Masalas and the occasional Neapolitan style pizza.
For a special treat, weary travelers will soon be able to visit the
world class Pura Vida Day Spa opening in Winter 2008, and Murata House
itself offers access to professionally trained therapists and
estheticians who will actually come to you.
Salt Spring Island is world renowned as an artists' haven, and many
exceptional galleries call the north island home. The Blue Horse Folk
Art Gallery (which is also the home of Salt Spring Island Chocolate),
features unique animal sculpture, Raku vases, lamps, paintings and
furniture in a rustic country setting complete with coffee garden. The
Landing Party Gallery features paintings of island life, including the
celebrated "Party Animal Series", plus one of a kind floating sculptures
to boot. Neither gallery should be missed as part of a Fernwood tour.
The entire area is extremely pedestrian and bicycle friendly. Rolling
farmland and country homes line the meandering ocean view roads popular
with local cyclists and day trippers alike.
Thank you for visiting our page. We hope you'll take the opportunity to
visit our island, and we hope you'll give us the opportunity to host
your visit soon.
"There is nothing finer in the world that the scenery and grand climate
here" ~ Jonathan Begg, July 16, 1860.
Cheers !
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