Secrets of the Salish Sea Wines, Whales and Wonders by Steve Duck
secrets of the salish sea offers the opportunity to sample, and to taste, some of the true wonders of the region.
As a resident or a visitor to the Saanich Peninsula, one is reminded daily of the splendour of the region. Its recently defined brand, "Diverse by Nature," leads us to what we can expect. A new tour starting this summer, "Secrets of the Salish Sea," provides the opportunity to get "down to ground" and savour this diversity. For six days (with five nights in local boutique hotels), travelers can explore the special places found in our backyard. Residents and their friends have the opportunity to do this in the "Secrets, Day-At-A-Time," enjoying various daily escorted tours. The Secrets are found on daily soft adventure excursions. Participants traveling by bike, on foot, by kayak or small boat will stop to experience the diversity of flavours the region has to offer. From cider to coffee to wine, Salish art to sculpture to market crafts, eagles to orcas to seals, beach-baked salmon to biscotti to fresh cheeses … the senses will be engaged at a leisurely pace of footsteps, paddle strokes and pedal pushes. This eco-friendly tour encourages the traveler to connect with the land, its people and 32 SEASIDE | may 2013
treasures. Direct interactions with artists, marine biologists, chefs, First Nations and other local storytellers will take place every day.
"Come experience the Salish Sea! An adventure for the senses … a remarkable journey." The travel groups will be an intimate, friendly size of not more than 10 people and not less than six. This gives everyone time to be involved in the various experiences of the day. It is an active tour, but not meant to be a fitness workout. By no means does one need to be an athlete to take part! Every mode of travel (hiking, biking, kayaking), while at a very comfortable pace, comes with options for those who would rather not participate, but still enjoy what the day has to offer. The Saanich Peninsula and its neighbour
Gulf Islands are surrounded by water: the Salish Sea. Each day of the tour, participants will enjoy being on the water in a different way: kayak, pontoon boat, water taxi, whale cruiser and splashing along in bare feet. Water is always good for the spirit! Along with good food, good company and good times, "Secrets of the Salish Sea" brings together the diversity of the region for one to savour in a day or for a week. "Secrets of the Salish Sea" is a new offering by TIDES – The Island's Destination & Event Service, based in Sidney, B.C. With worldwide experience, TIDES has brought together the best of the Saanich Peninsula to share a week of luxury treats. This tour, and its Day-At-A-Time options, offer the opportunity to sample, and to taste, some of the true wonders of the region comfortably, leisurely and informatively. Diverse by Nature, Fantastic by Experience! For more information on "Secrets of the Salish Sea" and "Secrets, Day-At-A-Time," visit www.TidesGroup.com or contact Steve Duck at 250-999-2997. Photo courtesy Steve Duck, TIDES.