Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa

Galiano Inn “HH”~ “Happy Hour” E-Bike Island hopping is something everyone should experience if given the chance, especially if they are so-called retired, but still having to work odd jobs to meet ends, thus this is a very reasonable short get-away for a week or so. Once in the islands the cost for the squeaky clean and very adequately operated BC Ferries (saying this with confidence, in comparison to the many other countries ferry systems I have personally used), BC Ferry system is a 3 plus, and up to a 4, out of 5, in some areas, with all the necessities. You and your e-bike/bicycle are a minimal fare, and if you are a lucky retired Canadian, I’m told Monday through Thursday its a free walk-on. Every island hop offers its own special values, as one experiences the different inheritance “of the folks of those early days” having used their particular knowledge and expertise to deal with each of the different islands needs, and respect. Having said this, I happened to be switching over from one island to another and on a midway stop over on Galiano Island, the “Gem of The Gulf Islands” they call it, had walking up the road and reading the sandwich-boards at the top of the dock, and realised very quickly that here was the perfect opportunity to try out the Happy Hour advertised at the Galiano Inn & Spa. And heavens behold it was just my wallet size and truly delightful, thinking it would be a little steep by way of its attractive grounds and beautiful entry setting, one can mosey in knowing you are in a special place, especially by the well-kept gardens, silently in my mind complimenting the garden crew as truly deserving. Unfortunately, I had missed the outside summer venue (in the photo) by a few days, as the season had just changed, but my view from behind a sturdy 3ft round 3-inch-thick redwood bar height table, was awesome, from where I was seated, I could even observe and see my ferry approaching from a distance, and leave to catch it all in good time. In this swanky but comfortable restaurant, of this Galiano Hotel & SPA, the foyer proudly displays a full wall of the most incredible collage of whale and ocean art, so beautiful. Now price wise their HH burger was only $13 and a darn good tasty burger it was, they also had sashimi and potstickers, (and I tried the mushroom potstickers, which had that nice slightly seared or burnt edge at the seal, very delicious) also presented was a tofu dish, and a crispy plate of wings, rings etc. A lager in a fair-sized glass was about $7.00 so my bill was under $40.00 Ca. plus tax., (like $28USA) and I was treated in such a courteous manner by the lady serving me, named Abby, friendly, impeccable manners and decency, leaving me with this joyous feeling of having been welcomed, well-fed, and along with a little buzz from the 2 Barnside local Lagers, I was just loving every moment of it riding back to the ferry.. I’ll be back on Galiano Island soon to visit the Famous Hummingbird Inn a friend has been ta

All the glowing reviews are from some years ago before the previous owners sold the property to people that, reportedly, don’t even live in Canada. They are trying to sell off the property room by room, villa by villa. The property is not being maintained, rooms are not cleaned properly, and the staff are demotivated. The hot-tube hasn’t been available to guests for more than three years. The restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays as is just about every other eatery on the Island. Your only choices are the bakery or the pub 6km away. The Sunday Prime-Rib special is mediocre at best. Housekeeping is only once a week and needs to be asked for. As are robes. Faded glory and not worth the price.

Hotel is a step up from camping. The best part is to open the door with screens and have a nap or sleep at night. The only problem is that everyone can use their outdoor wood burning fireplace which makes the air quality very poor. I coughed all night and had to close the doors which made it very hot. When we asked the staff to look into it they said it’s their right to do so. They advertise the most heavenly mattress, it’s hard and springy. You can feel all the springs. The beds are incredibly uncomfortable. This hotel is too expensive for what they can offer. The beach in front is fantastic. The villas are basic one bedrooms and nothing more. Not house cleaning either. Staff are available till 5pm Monday to Saturday only. After that you are on your own. There’s an emergency number to call but she won’t do anything for you. We had a relaxing stay but we had to endure hot tub not working, smoke smell in the evening from other guests and dogs barking around us. Uncomfortable bed and no eggs available for breakfast. Oh also general information: all restaurants are closed most weekdays. None serve breakfast. Only bakery options. Even at the hotel.