I cycled Gabriola in the Canadian Gulf Islands in 2020. And again in 2022.

Easy access via a 20-minute ferry service from Nanaimo.

Small. With a full-time population of about 4500, I could live on Gabriola.

Grocery store. Liquor store. Library.

3 provincial parks—Gabriola Sands Provincial Park on the northwest shore, Sandwell Provincial Park on the northeast shore, and Drumbeg Provincial Park on the east shore—as well as Descanso Bay Regional Park and an adjacent community park near the ferry terminal.

There’s a hippie vibe.

Only 14 kilometres long, I cycled all the main roadways. Took plenty of detours. Cycled some of the many hiking trails. And still had my tent set up by 6pm same day.