Saturna Island
Saturna General Store
POPULATION: 325
FERRY TERMINAL: Lyall Harbour
TOURIST INFO: Pick up a Saturna Island Tourism Association brochure
ATM MACHINES: Debit & credit cards accepted
Renowned among nature lovers for its magnificent ruggedness and abundant wildlife, Saturna Island is the perfect destination for a genuine escape into the beauty of nature. A hilly island of forests, shorelines, orchards, and sheep farms, Saturna was named after the Spanish ship, Saturnina, which sailed the area in 1791 under the command of Jose Maria Narvaez. Pioneer settlements were established in the late 1800s, yet through the decades Saturna has remained a peaceful, sparsely populated natural haven. Residents live in the clusters of homes and picturesque farms scattered mainly along East Point Road, which leads across the island from the Lyall Harbour ferry terminal. Today, the island's population is about 375, making it the smallest of the Gulf Islands in terms of population.
While pristine natural wilderness is Saturna's most distinguishing characteristic, it is also the home of a vineyard, winery, and accompanying lodge. Also well equipped to provide you with creature comforts are a number of bed and breakfasts and cottages tucked into the scenery, as well as art galleries, two general stores, a pub, cafˇ and bakery. Please note that there are no banks on the island, although debit cards and credit cards are accepted at the stores and many accommodation properties.
Scenic walks, beach strolls, and invigorating hikes to breathtaking viewpoints are some of the best ways to enjoy Saturna Island's beauty. The calm bays and waterways that surround the island make ideal paddling places for kayakers and canoeists; equipment rentals and tours are available locally. Cycling Saturna Island roadways is another excellent way to take in the sights. Marine charters for wildlife viewing, diving, and fishing can also be arranged. If you are looking for a spot for a waterside picnic, and perhaps a refreshing ocean dip, head to Veruna Bay, Winter Cove Marine Park, Thomson Park, East Point Regional Park, or Lyall Harbour Beach. Narvaez Bay is a great choice for hikers, nature lovers, and bird watchers.
Much of Saturna's land mass is in public hands since the creation last year of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. While no park services have been established as yet, visitors will quickly understand why this magnificent area has been set aside for future generations to appreciate. Winter Cove Marine Park is a great place for a nature walk or hike and features an anchorage and boat launch, beaches, a picnic area, and a tidal marsh acclaimed by bird watchers.
Situated at the most easterly point in the Gulf Islands, East Point Park grants awe-inspiring views of the ocean and the American San Juan Islands; this park is also known as a good vantage point for spotting whales from shore during the summer. There is a lovely picnic area near the historic lighthouse and the beach is popular with ocean swimmers. Seals, sea lions, and myriad birds provide delightful entertainment.
For a spectacular, panoramic view, as well as some outstanding wildlife watching opportunities, follow the gravel road to the 497-metre (1,630-foot) peak of Mount Warburton Pike, named for an early pioneer settler.
The biggest event on the Saturna Island social calendar, and one that draws people from far and wide, is the Canada Day Lamb Barbecue at Winter Cove Marine Park. Since 1950, local and visiting families have enjoyed this fun-filled country-fair style event. Other events include the Saturday Afternoon Market at the Community Hall in July and August, the Studio Tour on the August long weekend, and the spring and fall pig roasts. The Saturna Island winery is a popular feature of Saturna Island. Several award-winning wines have been produced here, and you can sample the vintages in the tasting room.
To find out what the locals are up to, stop in at the local pub or stores, or visit the notice board outside the Community Hall. Art shows and theatre and musical performances take place periodically throughout the year.
The annual lamb barbecue is an island tradition