Green Gables Loft Bed & Breakfast Little Bavaria in the Rockies

Nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Alps, Revelstoke mirrors the charm of Bourg Saint Maurice, cradled by snow-draped mountains and pristine National Parks. The tranquil flow of the Columbia River, the scenic stretch of the Trans-Canadian highway, and the rhythmic chug of freight trains breathe life into this quaint town. Revelstoke’s bustling tourist season may ebb to a quiet lull after the summer months, yet the allure of adventure remains undiminished.

The inviting climes beckon nature enthusiasts to a plethora of activities, from serene hikes to adrenaline-fueled sports, offering a respite for both body and soul. The esteemed Mount Revelstoke National Park, crowned as a UNESCO World Heritage site, serves as a sanctuary to an array of majestic wildlife, including the formidable Grizzly, the stealthy black bear, the stately moose, the elusive lynx, the graceful mule deer, the regal elk, and the industrious beaver.

Upon reaching a charming green abode of wood, one is greeted by the radiant smile of Gundy Baty, the heart and soul behind Green Gables Loft B&B. With an eye for elegance and a touch of whimsy, Gundy has infused her abode with a unique essence. Delicate, hand-painted motifs adorn the cabinetry, evoking the folk art of Eastern Europe.

Gundy’s journey is as rich and varied as her Bavarian roots. From imparting German lessons in Bordeaux to curating gems in Toronto, and from orchestrating travel escapades to providing medical aid, her path has been diverse. Now, her two adopted sons, Robert and Vincent, hailing from the Seychelles and Colombia respectively, pursue their dreams at the University of Toronto. While Germany remains a distant memory, it is France that tugs gently at her heartstrings.

A culinary aficionado, Gundy weaves magic in the kitchen, crafting everything from delectable strudels to hearty pumpkin soups, tangy sauerkraut, and sweet, homemade jams. Amidst the whirlwind of running a business, she preserves her innate spontaneity and unwavering dedication to her guests.

B&B proprietors are indeed a breed apart, driven by a quest for self-actualization, the pursuit of an ideal, or the nurturing of a dream. At times, dreams may soar, casting shadows on the practicalities of commerce. Yet, they stand firm, feet rooted to the earth, with aspirations that reach for the stars…

The Columbia River, a lifeline for the Pacific Northwest, is dotted with dams that create vast reservoirs, serving as crucial water sources for cities like Portland and Seattle. Its expanse is so grand that it mirrors the tranquility of a lake, with ferries gliding across its surface in a serene 25-minute journey. The surrounding landscape is an enchanting blend of aquatic splendor, lush forests, and majestic, snow-kissed peaks. Even as autumn deepens into October, the foliage flaunts a kaleidoscope of colors, from fiery reds and warm ochre to the softest shades of green.

Perched on the riverbank, a stone’s throw from Nakusp, the Halcyon Hot Springs Hotel emerges as a haven of wellness. This quaint thermal retreat boasts waters rich in calcium, naturally heated to a soothing 50 degrees Celsius. Constructed from robust logs, the hotel extends a warm invitation to its guests with three welcoming pools, each offering a different embrace of warmth, from a comfortable 38 degrees to a more invigorating 42 degrees, and even a refreshing dip at 12 degrees. The view from here is nothing short of spectacular, overlooking the serene Upper Arrow Lake and the stoic mountains beyond. The property’s history stretches back to 1890 when Captain Robert Sanderson acquired the land from the British crown. The Halcyon Hot Springs Hotel quickly became a cherished retreat, reminiscent of Deauville, until a fire in 1955 reduced it to ashes. Today, it stands reborn, offering a tranquil escape and embodying the quintessential Canadian experience.

The narrative of Revelstoke National Park is equally captivating. A stroll through the park reveals the rich tapestry of its ecosystems, from the damp, verdant forests at lower elevations to the subalpine woods that give way to the sparse, high-altitude meadows. Come July and August, these alpine pastures burst into a riot of wildflowers, painting the landscape with vibrant hues. Ascending further, one encounters the stark beauty of the alpine zone, punctuated by small lakes that serve as oases for the local wildlife. In the winter months, the mountains and valleys don a thick blanket of snow, a testament to the harsh yet awe-inspiring conditions that shape the flora and fauna of Mount Revelstoke National Park.