As the planner of our honeymoon, it was important I make the lodgings and meals as special as I knew how. And as a B&B veteran of many years, and a prior visitor to Victoria, I knew the town boasts of many fine such establishments.
But Rosemary and her Denniston By The Sea set a new gold standard for me - and thoroughly delighted my new bride! It didn't hurt that our room was decorated for our arrival with loads of balloons and a "Just Married" banner.
The location, a very easy five minute drive from downtown, is superb - on a small bay, overlooking the rocks just below, on which the sound of waves lapping will readily lull you to sleep after a full day of exploring Victoria and it's surroundings.
The rooms are themed, and those themes are so thoroughly carried out it can take you a few days just to notice all the touches - the Safari Room is downright entertaining. The lovely and leisurely breakfasts are not for dainty eaters, although if all you want is fruit and coffee that is easily handled too (don't deny yourself a taste of Rosemary's triple-cream topping!).
The living/dining area is very comfortable, and the picture window view of the bay and Rosemary's cozy garden right outside can make it hard to leave and start your day. Outside, overlooking the water-feature garden, is a deck and jacuzzi, which other guests assured me was most delightful; we just never had time for it during our four-night stay, as there is so much to do and see.
I can say without reservation that Rosemary is the most helpful B&B operator I have ever met. She's more like a really smart concierge who anticipates your needs even before you know them, volunteering ideas and tips that always prove right on the money. She made sure we booked well in advance for those things that are in high demand in the summer, such as Saturday night dinner in the fine dining room at Butchart Gardens, or whale watching (her tips: go out late in the day because the boat operators will have found where the orcas are by then, and be certain you're up to some bone-jarring and possibly getting wet if you book on a Zodiac).
We will no doubt be returning to Victoria for more R&R in the future, and it's hard to imagine staying anywhere else now that we've been spoiled by the Denniston experience.
