The Silvae Spiritus Guesthouse

Our Vision centers on restoring right relation with Nature; reconnecting us to ourselves, each other, and our living planet.

-Leigha Horton and Travis Norman, Silvae Spiritus co-founders
photo: Jon Kreye
A very large grey soft with soft throw pillows in front of a dark teal wall featuring framed art prints of Minnesota landmarks.
photo: Jon Kreye

Nestled in the Minnesota Northwoods halfway between Minneapolis / St. Paul and the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior, this inviting guest house is part of a quiet nature retreat close to charming small towns, as well as Banning State Park (hiking, white-water rafting), Willard Munger state bicycle trail, and Robinson Park (rock and ice climbing). Whether for deep relaxation and rejuvenation, a romantic getaway, or simply connecting with nature, these 30 acres feature woods, ephemeral ponds, meadows, and winding trails throughout.

Close-up image of cozy grey bedding with a long dark green accent pillow. Wall art features moss framed in multiple black hexagons.
photo: Jon Kreye

The private guest house, attached to our home, provides easygoing luxury in a spa-like atmosphere. Special features include full kitchen fit for a several-day stay, modular living room furniture that can be easily reconfigured to open the space for yoga, dance, or group meditation, and a modern wood-burning stove for indoor fireside relaxation. Second-floor bathroom with jet tub, private balcony for enjoying sunsets, private rustic fire pit near the house for cozy nights under the stars, and private campsite nestled in the woods.

Your on-site hosts, Travis and Leigha, are Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guides. To learn more about the practice of Forest Therapy (also known as Forest Bathing or Shinrin-Yoku) or our Guided Sauna sessions, visit What We Do. To book a Guided Walk or Guided Sauna session beyond normal operating hours during your stay, contact us and we’ll be happy to work with you to make special arrangements.

photo: Jon Kreye
  •   This was fantastic! It was exactly the get away my friend and I needed. Everything was like a little zen retreat ❤️

    thumb Catherine
    May 28, 2023

      We received a warm welcome as we pulled up to this beautiful home nestled within the heart of the forest. The hosts graciously took care of us from start to... read more

    thumb Will
    May 14, 2023

      This place was perfect for relaxation. We did the sauna package with cold plunge tubs and hot tub; that was an experience in itself. Having never done the thermic process... read more

    thumb Abby
    May 12, 2023

      This is the second time we've stayed here and we truly love it. It feels like home, the instant you walk in the door it feels like a weight is... read more

    thumb Melissa
    May 8, 2023

      What a special getaway - very close to banning state park, which was a wonderful hike. The sauna and cold plunge experience was well worth it and addicting. Can’t wait... read more

    thumb Amanda
    April 30, 2023

      This nature retreat is beautiful and peaceful. The space has been carefully and thoughtfully decorated and created. It is exactly as described and better.

    thumb Craig
    April 25, 2023

      Great place for my wife and I to have a peaceful, quiet escape for the city. Would stay again.

    thumb Josh
    April 23, 2023

      beautiful home and surroundings.

    peaceful, quiet nature preserve

    thumb Devale
    April 18, 2023

      Awesome space & hosts!
    I came up for a silent solo retreat and Leigha and her husband honored and facilitated that marvelously.
    I highly recommend the guided sauna! Even for... read more

    thumb Christopher
    April 16, 2023
  •   Such a peaceful, cozy spot. Hosts were wonderful and kind, location is beautiful, and just a wonderful experience overall. Can't wait to visit again when we can enjoy their beautiful... read more

    thumb Kylie
    April 9, 2023

      Staying at Leigha and Travis’s was a wonderful, relaxing weekend away. Everything was perfect and exactly as they described. Both spacious, and cozy. We had a great sauna experience and... read more

    thumb Brittany
    April 2, 2023

      I loved my stay and can't wait to come back!

    thumb Kelly
    March 27, 2023

      A beautiful spot for relaxing and mentally recharging in the woods of Minnesota. Large windows on the main floor look out over trees, many birds, deer at dusk, and bright... read more

    thumb Chip
    March 22, 2023

      Once again, pure bliss in this private woodland sanctuary. Will continue to host retreats here and enjoy guest unwind and reconnect to themselves and nature.

    thumb Amanda
    March 19, 2023

      Always a memorable stay with Leigha and Travis! We left replenished with a full heart after experiencing many wonders in nature, heartfelt conversations, and a rejuvenating experience with the sauna... read more

    thumb Emily
    March 15, 2023

      Really loved staying here! A perfect retreat away from the city. Beautiful home and property! Loved the decor, too.

    thumb Devon
    March 11, 2023

      This is our second time here this winter, we love it so much. A perfect place for a peaceful and restful babymoon:) took a walk around the property, loved following... read more

    thumb Rachel
    March 8, 2023

      My wife and I’s new favorite place. Leigha and Travis are the sweetest hosts ever and their place/property and services are a direct reflection of that. If you stay here... read more

    thumb Ben
    March 5, 2023
  •   Me and my wife had an excellent honeymoon thanks to Leigha and Travis! If you’re looking for a cozy, private, and romantic getaway with lots to do indoors plus... read more

    thumb Aaron
    March 3, 2023

      Silvae Spiritus is a gem. Leigha and Travis are excellent hosts - responsive and so friendly. The place feels peaceful and down-to-earth (and smells amazing, thanks to the thoughtful aromatherapy... read more

    thumb Bonnie
    February 26, 2023

      Amazing place. Magical, beautiful, just as the pictures look. Recommended to everyone who wants to enjoy a quiet place in Minnesota.

    thumb Emilio
    February 23, 2023

      We had a wonderful winter weekend getaway in the woods! Travis & Leigha’s place was perfect and had all the comforts of home: fully stocked kitchen, bathrobes, games, books, tv,... read more

    thumb Jennifer
    February 20, 2023

      Magical place in the woods

    Only 1,5 hour short drive from the cities, and you are transported to a different kind of place, where time slows down and magic... read more

    thumb Lida
    February 16, 2023

      Our stay at Silvae Spiritus was deeply restorative. The space is very relaxing and mindfully cultivated. The hosts are very kind and helpful. We can’t wait to stay again!

    thumb Phil
    February 12, 2023

      Beautiful and thoughtful touches in every corner. Very strong energy throughout the home and surrounding woods. A lovely snowfall began right after we arrived and immediately got to see 10... read more

    thumb Simone
    February 8, 2023

      We’ve come back to Silvae Spiritus many times, and will continue to! It’s so peaceful and beautiful. Spotless, amazing furniture and art. Wood-burning stove makes it so cozy.

    thumb Miriam
    February 5, 2023

      We absolutely loved our stay. It felt tranquil and peaceful from the moment we arrived. Beautiful well furnished home, such thoughtful touches throughout - treats in the kitchen, essential oils... read more

    thumb Rachel
    January 29, 2023
  •   What a beautiful and restorative space! Exactly what I needed and what I expected from the description. Highly recommend in any season. Snowshoeing was great! Lots... read more

    thumb Char
    January 23, 2023

      Our stay was exactly as we had hoped and more. The peace and beauty of the snow filled forest allowed for the perfect rest and reset weekend. We did not... read more

    thumb Cara
    January 15, 2023

      The venue was much more spacious then I envisioned it. There were beautiful views of the forest in all directions. The sauna experience was amazing! Will definitely be coming back!,

    thumb Roxanne
    January 7, 2023

      Our stay at the Finlayson retreat was serene and magical. The entire experience from the cabin living quarters to the guided sauna and forest bathing exceeded all expectations. Leigha and... read more

    thumb Cecilia
    December 30, 2022

      Silvae Spiritus is much more than a beautiful Airbnb; it is a relaxing, peaceful haven. Surrounded by beautiful forest, you feel intimately connected nature. I also could not recommend the... read more

    thumb Nelson
    December 21, 2022

      This was our second stay here. It is so incredibly peaceful. We drove up after a snowstorm and the snow covered forests were breathtaking. We did the guided sauna and... read more

    thumb Meghan
    December 17, 2022

      Leigha and Travis are incredible and gracious hosts. Their space is beautiful and peaceful, are the surroundings. They were extremely communicative and went out of their way to accomodate a... read more

    thumb Jessica
    November 30, 2022

      Such a magical place! So cozy and restful. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat where you can refuel definitely check out Silvae Spiritus. Lovely furnishings - both the couch... read more

    thumb Maggie
    November 23, 2022

      A beautiful space and experience as always. Thank you Leigha and Travis!

    thumb Adeline
    November 13, 2022
  •   Leigha’s home was perfect - a balm for body and soul. We’ll be back!

    thumb Fiona
    October 30, 2022

      A beautiful and peaceful place to get away. The attention to detail and thoughtfulness shines through

    thumb Adam
    October 28, 2022

      I have only positive things to say and are already thinking of when we will book here again. I have honestly never booked the same Airbnb, but Leigha and Travis's... read more

    thumb Melissa
    October 25, 2022

      I cannot say enough about this place except for that I’ve stayed here ~7 times in the last 16 months, so I will let that speak for itself. ❤️ A... read more

    thumb Adeline
    October 22, 2022

      Great place, excellent location. Loved the stay.

    thumb Emily
    October 16, 2022

      Leigha and Travis are perfect hosts and have created an amazing get away. Everything was so well laid out and we had a peaceful and restorative weekend. The... read more

    thumb David
    October 9, 2022

      Wow Wow Wow!! This place is a GEM!!! I highly recommend to add the forest bathing and then do the sauna, cold dip and hot tub at sunset!! We will... read more

    thumb Casia
    October 6, 2022

      This place is truly a retreat. Leigha and Travis have gone the extra mile to make this space peaceful, restorative, cozy and inviting. We loved enjoying a cup of coffee... read more

    thumb Kathleen
    October 2, 2022

      Such a treasure of a place! Travis and Leigha and their furry family are wonderful hosts and such a joy to spend time with. They put so much love and... read more

    thumb Krista
    September 28, 2022
  •   Simply enamored in every way by Silvae Spiritus. The hosts and all provided resources including natural habitat to explore and personalized accouterment at every turn left us feeling pampered beyond... read more

    thumb James
    September 9, 2022

      This is beautiful and restful space for getting a retreat in the woods. Spacious enough to have a whole family without everyone being crowded and lots of soothing scenery.

    thumb Doreen
    August 25, 2022

      Leigha and Travis were incredible hosts and their property is amazing- so tranquil that we were whispering in the house all weekend. For sure take advantage of all the amenities... read more

    thumb Connie
    August 21, 2022

      Hidden gem. Even better than described and pictured in the profile pics. You will not be disappointed. The property is awesome and so are the hosts 🙂

    thumb Lucas
    August 18, 2022

      Amazing stay at Leigha and Travis’ place. It was so peaceful, clean, and Leigha and Travis were gracious hosts and filled the place with thoughtful touches. You will definitely enjoy... read more

    thumb Kendall
    August 10, 2022

      Great place to stay! Very clean and had all the amenities we needed. Very nice hosts!

    thumb Vicki
    August 7, 2022

      Guest house is beautiful. We went in August and the bugs were bad so we couldn’t really be on the deck or outside which was a bummer. You can hear... read more

    thumb Jenna
    August 4, 2022

      Leigha and Travis are wonderful! Had a few hiccups in the beginning but their place is beautiful and we loved our stay! Can’t wait to come back soon 😊

    thumb Natalie
    July 31, 2022

      Thank you so much for the great place to stay! You guys are great hosts!

    thumb Kris
    July 26, 2022
  •   This space is amazing and gorgeous. It was so comfortable, clean and cozy, and allowed for true relaxation and pampering. Leigha and Travis made us feel so welcome, and... read more

    thumb Jennifer
    July 24, 2022

      such a beautiful place to stay at! the host was great at communicating and the details in the home made our stay wonderful. The energy inside the home was amazing... read more

    thumb Benjamin
    July 20, 2022

      A beautiful guesthouse surrounded by nature. Leigha and Travis are extremely warm and welcoming hosts. Throughly enjoyed our stay at Silvae Spiritus!

    thumb Char
    July 17, 2022

      I'm not exaggerating when I say that this is my favorite place in the world right now. Travis and Leigha are such beautiful people. Their understanding of how nature positively... read more

    thumb Michael
    July 10, 2022

      I loved staying here. From the “Wow!” that came out of my mouth as I walked in I knew it was a special place. Very peaceful and green. The kitchen... read more

    thumb Chris
    July 8, 2022

      Leigha and Travis have a beautiful and soothing space in a sublime forest setting. They are incredible and gracious hosts. The kitchen is perfect for creating and sharing meals. The... read more

    thumb Colleen
    June 29, 2022

      I love this place so much that I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve stayed here - each stay better than the last! Thanks Leigha and Travis ❤️

    thumb Adeline
    June 23, 2022

      This place is a true gem. I was so stressed leading up to our stay (work, busy schedule…) but this was such an amazing reset. I highly recommend the sauna... read more

    thumb Meghan
    June 14, 2022

      Very nice set up! Private , don’t feel as if it is connected. Love the lay out of the land as well

    thumb Katlyn
    June 12, 2022
  •   I loved seeing the house and property in the summer after previously visiting in winter! The house is so beautifully appointed and the natural environment can't be topped. I look... read more

    thumb Linnea
    June 9, 2022

      This was a great getaway and everyone in our party agreed we’d love to come back!

    thumb Janet
    June 5, 2022

      Amazing sauna experience nestled in the woods. Find your peace here.

    thumb Christin
    June 3, 2022

      Great stay! Definitely recommend the sauna experience. I’ve been to Iceland’s sky lagoon sauna and this Airbnb’s experience definitely is worth it! Friendly and kind people with a gorgeous place... read more

    thumb Nitali
    May 30, 2022

      So many ways to enjoy this place in every season. It, and the hosts, are wonderful in every conceivable way.

    thumb Janet
    May 28, 2022

      The kindest, most down to earth, very knowledgable, and extraordinary humans! This space has left no detail unattended to, such a beautiful place! Plan for a great stay!

    thumb Emily
    May 24, 2022

      I left my weekend feeling rejuvenated and revivified! Highly recommend this special retreat and I cannot wait to return!

    thumb Nicholas
    May 22, 2022

      This air B and B is in a very lovely setting, clean and comfortable, and with a lovely hostess who made us feel very welcome. We highly recommend this... read more

    thumb Colleen
    May 19, 2022

      This is our second time staying at Silvae Spiritus and it definitely won’t be our last! Every detail is intentional and beautiful. The addition of the sauna is wonderful—don’t miss... read more

    thumb Miriam
    May 15, 2022
  •   I’ve stayed in many many Airbnbs all over the country and this one is the best! It’s so incredibly beautiful inside and outside. The most thoughtful touches everywhere! And the... read more

    thumb John
    May 10, 2022

      Love this place as usual. 🥰

    thumb Adeline
    May 8, 2022

      This space was even more beautiful than the photos! I took my wife here for her 30th birthday and she was blown away, as was I. The hosts were so... read more

    thumb Jessie
    April 28, 2022

      Slivae Spiritus, and the hosts of this beautiful retreat are nothing short of amazing.

    While the photos certainly help to paint a picture of the beauty of the... read more

    thumb Leon
    April 24, 2022

      This place is so peaceful. It's the perfect getaway. Everything you need is there (including a full kitchen and toiletries) and the attention to detail is incredible. We really loved... read more

    thumb Dre
    April 20, 2022

      This place is a sanctuary. Leigha and Travis have done an amazing job making this place special for their guests. There is so much intention to help guests cultivate rest... read more

    thumb Kathleen
    April 16, 2022

      Beautiful place inside and out. Wonderful hosts. Don’t skip the sauna. This place is something special.

    thumb Janet
    April 3, 2022

      My husband and I visited Leigha’s place as a birthday celebration and were pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere, small touches and the beauty of the space. I initially booked... read more

    thumb Malisa
    March 27, 2022

      Silvae Spiritus is a beautiful, pristine getaway near Finlayson, MN, and we enjoyed our second visit as much or even more than our first. Hosts Leigha and Travis set the... read more

    thumb Irene
    March 16, 2022
  •   This place was even more beautiful than the pictures. Extremely cozy and relaxing. Plenty of thoughtful touches throughout the house. Would love to come back again!

    thumb Melissa
    March 2, 2022

      Peaceful, comfy and a beautiful location in the woods. Comfy beds and a kitchen that lacked for nothing. We had fun snowshoeing on the property, playing games and relaxing... read more

    thumb Carol
    February 27, 2022

      Fourth time staying here in six months - enough said!

    thumb Adeline
    February 20, 2022

      We had a great stay! The place is so cute and cozy. We want to come back in warmer weather too!

    thumb Carly
    February 13, 2022

      I cannot recommend this place highly enough. My husband and I spent our anniversary weekend here and it was just what we had hoped for - a peaceful respite from... read more

    thumb Brandie
    February 7, 2022

      Pictures do not do the place justice. Clean, spacious, comfortable, and secluded. Strongly recommended.

    thumb Kyle
    January 30, 2022

      Beautiful place to stay in a beautiful location. Hosts are very responsive and welcoming. It was an easy drive from the Twin Cities for a chance to soak in the... read more

    thumb Rebecca
    January 28, 2022

      A truly special & enchanting place that celebrates the beauty of the surrounding woods with complete coziness in mind. So many thoughtful details - from wind chimes singing at the... read more

    thumb Tara
    January 26, 2022

      Leigha was a great communicator; quick responses. They were even able to offer a 1 hour early check in. We enjoyed walks in the snowy woods, and on our return,... read more

    thumb Samantha
    January 22, 2022

EVERY DAY IS EARTH DAY:
Every booking = one tree planted!