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Waterfront Heritage Estate W/5 Bedrooms on Stunning Acreage

Photo gallery for Waterfront Heritage Estate W/5 Bedrooms on Stunning Acreage

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the massive lower lawn is a great place to spend the whole day
Come on in!
a few days into your stay you'll find yourself saying 'really, another rainbow!'
view from the private beach at low tide

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
5 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 12297.3 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Pet-friendly
  • Dryer
  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Saltspring Island, BC
  • Salt Spring Saturday Market
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Ganges Marina
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Saltspring Marina
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Ganges, BC (YGG-Ganges Harbour Seaplane Base)
    ‪5 min walk‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Double Room

1 Double Bed

Kingsize room (or 2 singles)

1 King Bed

Master Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Queen Suite

1 Queen Bed

The Old Nursery

1 Double Futon, 1 Single Bed and 1 Crib

3 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Bathroom 3

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Waterfront Heritage Estate W/5 Bedrooms on Stunning Acreage

This is the very best of West Coast Canada!

Watch the seaplanes land and sailboats pass by as you relax on your private oceanfront estate. Gorgeous sweeping views of Ganges Harbour are visible from nearly all rooms of this one of a kind heritage retreat.

Built in 1906 by the pioneering Tolson family, this property was the first private school on the Gulf Islands and was later a creamery and then the private retreat of a technology billionaire and his family, during which time the property was greatly restored.

A vast variety of birds and other wildlife make this 4 acre property home. Watch the swans, eagles, hummingbirds, blue heron, quail and other exotic birds from the enormous picture window and expansive veranda. Raccoons, otters, deer and other critters are curious, safe and plentiful.

There is much to do here for all ages. On the property, there is plenty of exploring to do, and the 300 feet of private beach front to enjoy. The main lawn is large enough for a serious soccer game. Pick fruit and berries at several times of the year, then bake them into a pie in the great kitchen that looks into the gorgeous back gardens.

Various flowers are usually blooming all over the park-like gardens and landscaped terraces. Numerous exploration paths weave throughout the property.

Off the property, hiking, kayaking, sailing, golfing, fine dining, casual dining, patio drinking, swimming, shopping, scuba diving, a day at the spa, fishing, yoga, farmers markets, etc... are all close at hand.

The house is set up perfectly for entertaining and relaxing alike. With plenty of space indoors, the adults can enjoy the evening with a roaring fire in the main living room, while the kids use the spacious upper living room or the entertainment room to watch movies on the big screen and play games of all sorts. There are plenty of bedrooms to go around, all beautifully furnished and well appointed. The three full bathrooms mean that no one is waiting for their turn for a shower. The big gourmet kitchen provides the space to cook a grand meal while onlookers enjoy a glass of wine without every getting in the way.

I guarantee you will love your stay here as much as we do!

This house is operated by the Island Heritage Appreciation Club which allows members to use it to cover the costs. Membership is open to all those who appreciate well-maintained heritage properties.

Keywords: Rustic luxury, waterfront, view, views, Saltspring, Ganges, convenient, marina, island, private, landscaped, heritage, Vancouver, Victoria, British Columbia, acreage, farmers market, orchard, garden, family

Property manager

Michael
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Kids love this property, inside and out.
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Events

No events allowed
This property is not suitable for parties/events
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Pets

Pets allowed
Pets must be described/approved at booking.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Please smoke outside. Lots of covered areas.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: This property is not suitable for parties/events
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
Property Registration Number H447656870

We should mention

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Ganges

Located in Salt Spring Island, this holiday home is near the airport and on the beach. Artspring Arts Center and Hand of Man Museum are cultural highlights, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit Salt Spring Saturday Market and Driftwood Centre. Dinner Bay Japanese Garden and The Raptors are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Saltspring Island, BC

What's nearby

  • Salt Spring Saturday Market - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Salt Spring Island Visitor Centre - 4 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Ganges Marina - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Saltspring Marina - 12 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Long Harbour Ferry Terminal - 7 min drive - 6.3 km

Getting around

  • Ganges, BC (YGG-Ganges Harbour Seaplane Base) - 1 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Shipyard Restaurant - ‬54 min drive
  • ‪Rock Salt Restaurant & Cafe - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Switchboard Cafe - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Oystercatcher Seafood Bar & Grill - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Tree-House Cafe - ‬4 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Waterfront Heritage Estate W/5 Bedrooms on Stunning Acreage pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Waterfront Heritage Estate W/5 Bedrooms on Stunning Acreage?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Waterfront Heritage Estate W/5 Bedrooms on Stunning Acreage?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Waterfront Heritage Estate W/5 Bedrooms on Stunning Acreage located?

Nestled on the beach, this Salt Spring Island holiday home is within a 5-minute walk of Artspring Arts Center, Salt Spring Saturday Market and Spa by Lenice. Ganges Marina and Salt Spring Island Visitor Centre are also within 10 minutes.

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 87 out of 107 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 16 out of 107 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 107 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 107 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 107 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Evan A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A great experience

We chose this place for a family reunion and are very glad we did. Lots of space, elegant rooms, comfortable beds and bedding, and well supplied kitchen. Our timing over spring break meant the weather was not ideal, so we didn't enjoy the extensive grounds as much as we might have, but the wonderful views from some of the rooms made up for that. The location was hard to beat: it felt quiet and secluded, but also a very short walk to all that Ganges has to offer. Perhaps it's most special feature is the real heritage feel: generous furnishings gracing large social spaces, with interesting art throughout and bookshelves well filled. Well equipped for kids and cooks, with a sense of quiet grandeur for the oldies.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Location Location

Wonderful stay for our family of 9! The home had so much charm and character and there was plenty of room for our group. The view was amazing. And the proximity to the shops was convenient. We went for walks, played lots of games at the large dining table and enjoyed our family time together. Michael was great to deal with. Thank you for sharing your beautiful home!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

W G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

We had a lovely time. The weather was turning toward fall as we arrived, so we had a great time exploring the area and then returning home for an evening fire. The house served us very well and the view out to the harbor was a wonderful start to every morning.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Gillian H.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Heritage house stay

The stay was great. The house was very interesting with all it's older entities. Nice garden and lots of room outside and in. The only downside was the beach. Lots of garbage and not really able to do much on the beach as very sludgy. Also campers on beach below us made quite a bit of noise at night. But other than that it was a great place to stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jenny N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A magical week

What a wonderful house and location; we couldn’t have asked for better. Our family of 12 were easily accommodated- there was plenty of room to rest and play and cook fantastic meals. We would not hesitate to return!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kate T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A hidden gem

What an incredible property! We stayed with family friends, 5 kids and two dogs in total and everyone had a blast. The pictures don't do the grounds justice, truly a magical piece of land. The location cannot be beat, you can walk to everything you need in Ganges, you have total privacy and room to roam. Excellent service by the host and their team. We can't wait to come back.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property in the perfect location

Excellent stay at this amazing property. Beach access and proximity to Ganges are unmatched. Michael was great with communication and the house is well stocked with everything you’ll need. I would gladly stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Leigh-Anne F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spacious and Relaxing

This gem was clean and inviting. You are going to love the peace and quiet… relax on the porch or just gaze through at the ocean from any window. There was plenty of room for all our family (10 of us!) walking distance to all the local shops and restaurants. We enjoyed the weekend market too… so much to see and do. Thank you.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sue M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

80th Birthday!

Absolutely fabulous all around :]]
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

8/10 Good

Lisa G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

80 th Birthday reunion

Great location, gorgeous views, relaxing stay
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

James S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A siblings gathering

Great three day stay, warm, welcoming and comfortable house. Location excellent, loved the architecture, with original windows all around the main floor, awesome fireplace and lots of wood for evening fires. Liked the modern art glass and cozy furniture. Wonderful stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jesse K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

SSI heritage house

Amazing property. Very close to Ganges. Wonderful old house and great surroundings.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

melissa b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

It’s all about

the couch
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jim C., Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing location and property

Old heritage home with amazing outdoor property and view. Within walking distance to Ganges. Kitchen well equipped and dining room worked for a large family. Host was very responsive and accommodating. If travelling to Salt Spring again we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

6/10 Okay

margaret G., vancouver canada

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Saltspring Island getaway

Located in the heart of the very interesting village. Lots to see and do. The house is a lovely old home, but requires two updates in particular . None of the beds were comfortable…a couple were close to okay but most not. Second was the dining room light fixture. Delightful to look at ….if only one could see when trying to play cards and games in the evenings. Overall, my children and grandchildren enjoyed the week.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

Nick C.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness

A real gem in the heart of the Island

This property and home is advertised - it is a stunning estate overlooking the harbour, perfectly positioned in the heart of Salt Spring Island. Our family had a wonderful time here creating new memories and taking in the surroundings. If were to pick one issue, it was that the home wasn't as clean as we had hoped. This could be personal preference for our family, others may not have been as concerned!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Vicki M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Paradise

Loved our stay, hope to visit again!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shirley P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We loved every minute!!

This property is perfect for a group of friends or a family gathering. The kitchen is very well equipped, lots of bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, ample room to spread out or have a quiet time area. The location couldn’t be better with wonderful outside areas and easy beach access. We are looking forward to a return visit.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stefan S., Burnaby, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place with better location

Very good place. Big yard to play bocce in. Could use a hot tub 😜 but otherwise perfect.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ceri M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful, comfortable spot

We had such a lovely stay at your home. It was absolutely perfect for our family. We enjoyed cooking in the spacious kitchen, playing bocce in the garden and having coffee on the front porch each morning. It was great being so close to town and yet it felt so private and quiet. We wished we could have stayed longer.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

6/10 Okay

Leanna B.

Liked: Location

We love the house but don't love the check out process

It is really beautiful and great for a small gathering, comfortable rooms, beautiful patios and grassy areas. Accessibility is not great, stairs and uneven ground. I don't like that we are expected to do all of the laundry for 5 sets of sheets, towels for two bathrooms and kitchen cloths, all before 11am checkout.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely stunning views

We feel so lucky to have spent time in this wonderful house. It was comfortable, and roomy, and well equipped.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Vic S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Extended Family vacation

Large older heritage home on large property. Easy short walk into Ganges. On site parking. Private yards for kids to play in. Large kitchen with good appliances. Nice dining area with view to harbour.
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Bette W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome. Great location.

We had a really great time with our children and grand children. The property was perfect for us. Close enough to all the amenities one might want yet far enough away. Easy to check in, clear rules and everything we could need. Lots of different bedroom configurations
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

8/10 Good

Chris N.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beuatiful setting and great property

Great place to stay for our family of 13 adults and 4 dogs. Lots of room to set up games and space for the dogs to run around...room for everyone and cooking meals
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022

About the host

Hosted by Michael

Host profile image
I'm a city boy from Vancouver, who has always dreamed of enjoying and maintaining an island heritage property (You don't so much 'own' such a property as take your turn looking after it)

Traveling is in my blood, but I love the natural wonders and serenity of the Gulf Islands of British Columbia more than anywhere else I have been privileged enough to visit.

An environmentalist at heart, I am sensitive to keeping this property chemical free and the house as healthy a living space as possible.

Why they chose this property

We fell in love with this late 19th century estate when a friend bought it many years ago. Every opportunity to visit that came up, we made it a priority to get there.

This is one of those properties that changes your life in so many ways, and all of them for the better.

What makes this property unique

Once you arrive at this property, you no longer need your car. Everything you need is within close walking distance. But when you enter and close the gate behind you, you are in a private world all your own and the outside world ceases to exist. It is the very best of all worlds!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests