Our Home
Peace of mind is in our nature.
Nautilus House sits between the ocean and the sky, in the Whaling Station Bay neighbourhood of Hornby Island. We are a stone’s throw from the white sand and mesmerizing sandstone formations of the beach and border of Helliwell Provincial Park, a nature-lover’s paradise.
Lounge in the peace and solitude of the sunny back garden, or meander down to the beach for a game of bocce and a dip. Take a picnic lunch up onto the grassy bluffs of Helliwell or find the perfect souvenir at the Ringside Market.
The Nautilus House offers guests two separate accommodations, located on opposite sides of the Main House, nestled amongst our towering trees and manicured garden acreage. Respect for your privacy and comfort is our top priority. Both offer private entrances and patios, away from the other living spaces on the property, however close enough to enjoy the shared access to our sprawling property. If weather and time permits, Ben may take you for a ride on his train that meanders through the property!
Nautilus House
Through a small gate and private entrance, your oasis awaits. Three queen beds; and one with a twin bunk. The living/dining room looks onto the patio, with seating and BBQ, and the manicured back gardens. 6 guests.
Studio
The Studio also has a private entrance and patio with BBQ, with easy access to the gardens. The Studio features one queen bed, three-piece bathroom, and generous sitting area with natural light throughout. While our property is adjacent to the beach, with views of the ocean and mountains, it retains its privacy for those who cherish peace and quiet. 2 guests.
We are located at 7860 Helliwell Road. Make your way to the Buckley Bay Ferry Terminal just south of Courtenay. From Victoria, approximately 2.5 hours. Check the BC Ferries website for sailing times. Generally ferries run every hour, but shuttle on busy summer weekends. Note that the last connecting ferry to Hornby leaves Buckley Bay at 6pm (except on Fridays, later)
Once on Hornby, follow the signs to Helliwell Park. You can’t miss us!
Beach
Walk across the road about 25m to a spectacular sandy beach.
Provincial Park
Walk up the road about 300m into Helliwell Provincial Park.
Wildlife
Hornby Island is home to myriad wildlife, including eagles, sea lions, whales, and more.
Culture
Hornby Island boasts a thriving artisan community, who eagerly welcome guests into their working studios.
Photos
The Nautilus House offers guests two accommodations, located on opposite sides of the Main House, nestled amongst our towering trees and manicured garden acreage.
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Mountain Biking
Nautilus House has an outdoor wash-down station, and secure storage with basic tools and repair stand.
Mountain biking on Hornby is a popular pastime. If you’re a biker you’ve probably heard of, or experienced our amazing resource already. We boast over 80km of trails, from roadside commuters to flow downhill to breathtaking views.
Special thanks to HIMBA, the Hornby Island Mountain Bike Association, a small but dedicated group of cyclists who years ago took on the role of advocating for, repairing, and building Hornby’s trail network. Their exemplary work continues to make Hornby a preferred mountain biking destination.
Not only are our trails amongst the best maintained, we offer the longest riding season on the coast, often with no winter shut-down period.
Show your support for HIMBA and the trail system by purchasing a map on Hornby for $5. Trail Maps can be purchased at the Co-op Gas Bar and the Bike Shop. You’ll get a much more detailed map, and it’s printed on waterproof paper.
Photos courtesy of HIMBA (hibike.ca)
Mountain Biking
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Nautilus House
A private path leads to the Nautilus House entrance, where your oasis awaits. Three bedrooms appointed with queen beds; one with a twin bunk. The living/dining room looks onto the private patio, with seating and BBQ, and the manicured back gardens, with access to the shared yard. 6 guests.
Entrance and private patio 
Back yard with huge picnic table
Living area
Living area with TV/DVD
Bedroom 1
Bedroom 3 
Bedroom 2
Bathroom
Nautilus House
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Studio
The Studio has a private entrance and patio with BBQ, with easy access to the gardens and shared yard. The Studio features one queen bed, three piece-bathroom, and generous sitting area with natural light throughout. While our property is adjacent to the beach, with views of the ocean and mountains, it retains its privacy for those who cherish peace and quiet. 2 guests.
Entrance with private patio down the side
Large front window
Cozy bedroom
Bathroom 
Living area
Studio
Policies & Rates
Get the latest information on how to enjoy your stay.
Water Conservation
Water Conservation is an important part of Hornby culture. We have a limited supply on the Island so everyone’s participation in smart use is necessary, particularly in summer.
Garbage/Recycling
Hornby takes pride in Garbage/Recycling culture. Our goal is zero waste, and currently Hornby Islanders recycle or re-use 70% of our waste stream. We’re always conscious of our island footprint and provide a recycling sorting station so you can be too!
Pets
No Pets unless by special arrangement. Additional cleaning fee may apply.
Quiet Time
Quiet Time is 10 pm. We ask that our guests respect our neighbours and move indoors by 11 pm. If you must howl at the moon, please do it from the beach.
Policies & Rates
SUMMER
1-week minimum, Friday-Friday
Nautilus Home
Contact for rates
Studio
Contact for rates
Shoulder/Winter
2-night minimum
Nautilus Suite
Contact for rates
Studio Cottage
Contact for rates
Deposit
Deposit: We require a 50% deposit to reserve your stay. Only refundable within 48 hours from time of booking. An e-mail transfer is the preferred method of payment, however all major credit cards can also be accepted. A 3.5% fee will be added for a credit card transaction.
Checkin / Out
Checkin after 3pm
Checkout by 10am
Your Stay
Above all, relax and enjoy yourselves! The Island has everything you could desire in terms of recreation, activities and cultural events. Or just spread out your beach towel and work on your tan. Just ask us if you’d like any recommendations or want more information about any of the local happenings.
Your hosts,
Ben, Vicky and Louis XV