And these aren’t the only visitors who benefit from the lush vegetation. The property stimulates all the senses for guests, including being able to taste the green hotels’ organically grown fruits and vegetables, homemade jams, apple juice and baked goodies, all from the garden.
I was guided around the 2-acre property, smelling the fragrance of the magnificent rhododendrons, admiring the unique beauty of the helleborus, and observing the subtle differences between the multiple species of ferns. While looking at the lilies in the rock pond, Ross divulged into how they became certified by the Canadian Wildlife Federation.
When they opened their carriage house Bed and Breakfast Suite, they registered with BBCanada. The first newsletter article they received from BBCanada illustrated how Bed and Breakfasts were ideal spaces to become Canadian Wildlife Certified Backyard Habitats. The couple immediately contacted the Canadian Wildlife Federation to enquire about how to be eco-friendly and gain certification for their sustainability management.
The steps to becoming certified include creating a sketch of your property highlighting all natural features, filling out an application and submitting photos of your property and it’s features. Click here for more information on how to apply.
The entire certification process took about a month, and Ross said the most challenging part was, “figuring out the Latin names for the 50 plus native plants and trees growing at Royston House.” But it was something they felt was well worth it.
“Most of our guests enjoy the outdoors, whether biking, jogging or walking one of the many trails in the Comox Valley, so being surrounded by nature while enjoying the niceties of a luxury B&B makes their stay something special,” Ross added. Learn more about their green business: http://www.roystonhouse.ca/oceanside_habitat.php.