January 29, 2013
It’s that time of year again for sweethearts to say “I love you” and to celebrate the holiday that is Valentine’s Day. What’s a great way to do just that? How about going away on Feb. 14 to a bed-and-breakfast that’s not only quaint, but also eco-friendly? This way you can spend some alone time, and show your love to the planet.
Here are five planet-friendly bed-and-breakfasts that are perfect for Valentine’s Day!
1. The Queen Anne Bed & Breakfast – Colorado
Located in downtown Denver, The Queen Anne Bed & Breakfast is the perfect couples getaway. Considered an “urban oasis,” the B&B offers green-friendly decorated rooms; a menu prepared with food from local vendors; eco-friendly amenities like 100 percent organic cotton bedding and linens; and a variety of sustainable sights for you to explore like a local vegan bakery and a lovely community farms. The Queen Anne also does it part for the environment by striving toward a zero-waste property where everything is “recycled, reused or composted.” As the site say, “At the Queen Anne, we don’t believe that comfort has to be sacrificed to create a sustainable, eco-friendly stay. Here you will find the best of both worlds.”
2. Inn at Ellis River – New Hampshire
If you’re looking for a quaint Valentine’s Day, then definitely take a trip to New England and stay at the Inn at Ellis River in Jackson, N.H. This is the place where nature is truly all around you. From the mountains to the river to hiking to skiing, the activities are endless. The B&B also takes part in green practices. For example, it’s part of the New Hampshire Sustainable Lodging and Restaurant Program; it recycles old hotel soaps and shampoos by partnering with the Clean the World organization; it has Energy-Star appliances; and 100 percent believes in recycling, among many, many others.
3. The Carriage House Inn, Bed & Breakfast – Virginia
The Carriage House Inn Bed and Breakfast is located in Lynchburg, and is very close to its historic downtown. Relaxation is something the B&B specializes in, and even has a massage and body treatment studio for those looking to get pampered. In addition to its warm and inviting spirit, the Carriage House considers taking care of the planet a serious matter. All waste is recycled; energy-efficient lights and appliances are used; food and yard waste is composted; and will soon be collecting rainwater for irrigation and to help maintain their organic garden full of fruits, veggies and herbs.
4. Maple Hill Manor – Kentucky
Kentucky’s historic Maple Hill Manor is “considered one of the best preserved Antebellum style homes” in the state. Not only is the inn a lovely bed-and-breakfast, but it’s also a working farm. The land includes a fruit tree orchard, raspberry bushes, a wildlife nature preserve and alpacas and llamas. Regarding green elements, Maple Hill has Triple-Leaf Green Lodging Certification for its use of LED bulbs, Green Seal Certified cleaning products, its recycling initiatives, and many others. Another fun part of the Manor is, each room is named after a historical figure like Abraham Lincoln, Clara Barton and Harriet Beecher Stowe!
5. Paca de Paja Bed and Breakfast – Arizona
For a western Valentine’s Day, head on over to Tucson, Ariz. to the Paca de Paja Bed and Breakfast. The Santa Fe-style inn speaks environmentalism. It’s made with a low impact, energy-efficient design i.e. insulated strawbale walls; offers delicious organic foods; practices rainwater harvesting; line dries 80 percent of all laundry; and strongly believes in not using harmful chemicals or toxins. Nearby attractions include Kitt Peak National Observatory, Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge, and many other fun sites.
These five eco-friendly bed-and-breakfasts are wonderful places to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your loved one. For more choices, click here to search worldwide for other green B&B’s.
-Allyson Koerner