Salt Spring Island “Artisan Trail” Hop On Hop Off Tour!

Planning a trip to Salt Spring Island? You’ll want to consider the “Artisan Trail” Hop On Hop Off Tour, a flexible way to soak in the island’s best artisan experiences without feeling rushed. This 6-hour loop takes you through some of Salt Spring’s most unique spots — from award-winning cheeseries to lavender farms, and from cozy breweries to estate vineyards. It’s ideal for those who love authentic local flavors and scenic views, and who prefer a casual, self-paced exploration.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the customizable nature — you’re in charge. Second, the small group size (only 20 seats per shuttle), which means more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. However, it’s worth noting that some reviewers found the stops somewhat limited if you’re expecting in-depth tours of each artisan. This experience suits travelers who enjoy leisure, local food, and scenic drives, rather than those seeking in-depth guided narration.

Key Points

• Flexibility and control — hop on and off at your own pace.
• Authentic local experiences — cheese, lavender, wine, cider, and craft beer.
• Small group size — intimate and personal.
• Stunning scenery — 28 km scenic loop with views of farms, mountains, and coast.
• Food and drink — delicious tastings, from cheese to cider and wine.
• Value for money — a well-priced way to explore multiple artisan producers in one day.

A Scenic and Tasty Loop through Salt Spring’s Artisans

We’ll start with what most travelers are eager to experience: the scenic drive itself. The route is a leisurely 28 km loop around the island, offering ample opportunities to enjoy Salt Spring’s lush landscapes, farm fields, and ocean views. The small shuttle (only 20 seats) ensures a relaxed and personable journey, with frequent stops that let you linger or move on based on your interests. The $47.88 price per person seems fair considering the variety of stops, tastings, and the personalized nature of the tour.

The Salt Spring Island Cheese Farm — A Dairy Delight

Our first stop is the Salt Spring Island Cheese farm, a must-visit for cheese lovers. Here, you get to sample over a dozen artisan cheeses, paired with jams, chutneys, and crackers. The farm’s viewing windows provide a glimpse into the cheese-making process, adding a fun educational element. The self-guided tour around the goats’ barn allows you to get up close with the animals, which kids and adults alike find charming. The farm’s courtyard café offers house-made pizzas, salads, and their renowned cheese cake served with seasonal fruit — all delicious and authentic.

According to reviews, this stop really hits the mark in terms of taste and charm. One visitor praised the ease of the experience, mentioning that “Elliot, our driver, made everything so smooth and enjoyable.” Others appreciated the chance to see the cheese-making and enjoy the farm atmosphere.

Sacred Mountain Lavender — Fragrant and Visual Bliss

Next, you’ll visit the Sacred Mountain Lavender farm, a true highlight for lovers of floral beauty and calming scents. The farm features around 60 varieties of lavender, grown organically for culinary, floral, and spa uses. You’ll get a self-guided tour through the demonstration beds, drying rooms, and distillation areas. The purple fields are picture-perfect, especially when in full bloom from June to September. You can enjoy lavender-infused treats like a fruitsicle or tea in the farm shop.

Some travelers find the lavender farm a bit overrated — one review suggests skipping it — but most agree it’s a lovely, aromatic stop that offers a peaceful break amid the scenic surroundings.

Salt Spring Brewing Co. — Craft Beer with a View

For those who enjoy a good brew, Salt Spring Brewing Co. offers a relaxed stop. Since 1998, they’ve been crafting small-batch beers, often using local ingredients like island-grown hops and honey. The rustic setting against a forested mountain adds to the experience. You’ll learn about their unique brewing process, which emphasizes freshness and minimal intervention.

The standouts include their raspberry mango sour ale and a vanilla stout called crème brûlée, brewed by Belgium-born head brewer Louis Hage. Guests often comment on the balanced flavors and the authentic local vibe. This stop is perfect for a casual tasting and appreciating Salt Spring’s craft scene.

Garry Oaks Estate Winery — Sipping with a View

The Garry Oaks Estate Winery is a highlight, especially for wine enthusiasts. Overlooking the Burgoyne Valley, the estate offers a selection of award-winning wines, all estate-grown and bottled. The setting is picturesque, with a mini-labyrinth and majestic Garry Oaks that lend a sense of tranquility. The tasting room displays awards, and you can enjoy a relaxed walk or settle into the cozy Adirondack chairs with a glass of Gewürztraminer.

Reviewers love the scenic setting and the quality of the wines. One quoted review describes the experience as “perfect for a quiet afternoon with a decadent bottle of wine.” The sustainable grape growing adds an eco-conscious touch that’s becoming more valued by visitors.

Ciderworks — Heritage Apples and Artisan Cider

No visit to Salt Spring would be complete without tasting the organic cider from Ciderworks. Their orchard features over 425 heritage apple varieties, grown without chemicals, with a focus on minimal intervention. The cider is crafted from these rare apples, giving it a distinctive flavor that stands apart from mass-produced options.

The cider tasting is complemented by views of the rolling orchard and the chance to sample delicious apple fritters and artisan pizza. Several reviews mention the excellent value and the opportunity to taste unique, heritage-driven cider. The commitment to quality and the organic approach make it a favorite among connoisseurs.

Ganges Harbour & Saturday Market — Local Art and Crafts

After a full day exploring the artisan stops, you’ll return to Ganges Village. If your visit coincides with Saturday Market (April to October), you’ll enjoy browsing local crafts, fresh produce, and prepared foods in Centennial Park. It’s a wonderful way to experience the island’s community spirit and creativity, with plenty of opportunities to pick up souvenirs or enjoy a casual dinner.

Practical Details and Traveler Insights

The tour starts at the Salt Spring Visitor Information Center with the shuttle pulling into the designated “Loading Zone.” Transportation is private, and the small shuttle size means a more intimate experience — no large bus full of strangers. The six-hour duration allows ample time at each stop, with flexible scheduling so you can decide how long to linger.

Booking in advance—on average 47 days ahead—is recommended, especially during peak season. The price of $47.88 per person covers the transportation and the experience, making it a good value considering the variety of artisan stops. Additional costs are for food, drinks, and any personal purchases.

While the tour is designed to be flexible, some reviews note that the stops may be somewhat brief if you want to explore every detail. However, the small group and the self-guided approach mean you can tailor your day without feeling hurried.

What You’ll Love

• The scenic drive offers stunning views of farms, mountains, and coastlines.
• The local food and drink tastings showcase Salt Spring’s best producers.
• The small group format fosters a relaxed, personal experience.
• The flexible hop-on hop-off setup allows you to customize your day.

Considerations

• If you’re particularly interested in in-depth tours of each artisan, this might feel a bit limited — it’s more about tasting and atmosphere than detailed explanations.
• The lavender farm, while beautiful, might not be a highlight for everyone, especially if you’re tight on time.
• The tour’s success depends on decent weather, as much of the experience is outdoors.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is ideal for visitors who want a laid-back, authentic taste of Salt Spring Island. It suits those who appreciate good food, local wines, and scenic drives but don’t need exhaustive guided explanations. Perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to explore at a relaxed pace with a focus on food and artisan crafts.

It’s especially good for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of the island’s artisan scene without the hassle of organizing multiple visits independently. If you’re keen on sampling local cheeses, enjoying a few glasses of wine or cider, and wandering through lavender fields, this tour delivers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation in a small shuttle with a maximum of 20 seats, allowing you to hop on and off at each artisan stop at your own pace.

How long is the total tour?
The total experience lasts about six hours, giving plenty of time to visit each stop comfortably.

Can I customize my stops?
Yes, the hop-on hop-off format means you can choose which artisans to visit and how long to stay at each.

What types of food can I expect?
You’ll find cheese, charcuterie, wood-fired pizza, pastries, ice cream, and home-baked sweets — all from local producers.

Are there wine and beer tasting options?
Yes, at Garry Oaks Estate Winery and Salt Spring Brewing Co., where you can sample local wines and craft beers.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the small group and outdoor stops make it accessible for families, especially those interested in food and scenic views.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you want to explore farms or the vineyard grounds. Sunscreen and water are advisable on sunny days.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is strongly recommended, particularly during peak season, as the tour is popular and limited in size.

Summary

The Salt Spring Island “Artisan Trail” Hop On Hop Off Tour offers a delightful way to experience the island’s local flavors, scenic beauty, and artisanal spirit. With a small-group setting, flexible schedule, and a focus on genuine local products, it provides great value and memorable moments. While it may not satisfy those seeking in-depth guided tours, it’s perfect for visitors wanting a relaxed, taste-driven exploration of Salt Spring’s vibrant artisan community. Whether you’re a foodie, wine lover, or simply someone who enjoys beautiful scenery and friendly local producers, this tour is worth considering for your Salt Spring adventure.