BELLEFONTE — The Queen, A Victorian Bed and Breakfast, has achieved a major milestone in environmental care by earning the Bronze Award from Green Tourism. This international certification program is known worldwide for its high standards in the hospitality industry.
While located in the heart of Bellefonte, The Queen is now recognized on a global stage for its commitment to the planet. This honor follows the 2024 Emerald Award from local authorities for the B&B’s excellence in recycling and waste reduction.
Focus on people, places, and the planet
To earn this award, the B&B passed a rigorous evaluation of how it treats its community and the environment. The property features an Audubon-certified garden and is a registered National Wildlife Federation Habitat. By replacing traditional grass with native plants, the owners have restored the local ecosystem to support birds and pollinators.
Guests can experience these efforts firsthand through:
- Nature education: Learn how native plants protect local insect and bird populations.
- Monarch conservation: Observe the life cycle of Monarch butterflies raised on-site.
- Butterfly releases: When the timing is right, guests may help release new butterflies into the wild.
- Hydroponic gardening: See how food is grown efficiently using a modern water-based garden tower.
Responsible and healthy hospitality
The Queen has made significant technical changes to reduce its environmental footprint:
- Energy efficiency: The B&B uses LED lighting and on-demand water heaters to save energy.
- Waste reduction: A “reduce and reuse” policy includes refillable amenities and the use of beautiful, repurposed antique furniture.
- Chemical-Free Care: To keep guests and staff healthy, the B&B uses natural cleaning products like steam and vinegar. No chemicals are ever used in the gardens.
“We hope to inspire our guests to try these sustainable practices in their own lives,” said owner Nancy Noll, a certified Pennsylvania Master Naturalist. “This award validates our work to protect the environment while providing a high-quality stay.”
