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

The Guest House and Tiny House at Silvae Spiritus

photo: Nelson Morlock

Nestled in the Minnesota Northwoods halfway between Minneapolis / St. Paul and the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior, the inviting Guest House and Tiny House are part of a quiet nature retreat within 15 minutes of Banning State Park (hiking, white-water rafting), within 7 minutes of the Finlayson entrance to the Willard Munger state bicycle trail, and within 20 minutes of Sandstone’s 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 – the ideal setting for magic to reveal itself around you and wonder and awe to unfurl within you.

We welcome reservations for both the Guesthouse and the Tiny House exclusively via the AirBnB platform – guests can book one or both, depending on group size and space desires.

Your on-site hosts, Travis and Leigha, are Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guides, and offer a full menu of wellness services. 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.

The Silvae Spiritus Guesthouse

photo: Ethan Schultz
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
photo: Jon Kreye

The private Guest House, attached to the Silvae Spiritus founders’ 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. The second-floor features a large bathroom with shower and jetted tub, two bedrooms with a comfortable queen bed in each, a TV nook equipped with streaming services and blu-ray player, private balcony for enjoying sunsets, private rustic fire pit near the house for cozy nights under the stars, and a guest campsite nestled in the woods.

Photo of a bed with cozy bed pillows in two shades of grey, with a green plant on a side table in the background.
photo: Jon Kreye
photo: Leigha Horton
photo: Leigha Horton

The Tiny House at Silvae Spiritus

photo: Leigha Horton

Tucked in the trees and featuring large windows and immersive views of the forest and sky, the private, spacious Tiny House, near the Silvae Spiritus founders’ home and Guest House, provides a cozy getaway for just a single night or as long as a week. Special features include full kitchen fit for a several-day stay, 3/4 bathroom with shower and standard flush toilet, two queen beds in separate sleeping lofts accessible by stairs, a TV nook equipped with streaming services, a small living room with a Bose Sound System with bluetooth capability and a CD player, a faux-fireplace for added ambiance and warmth, reading materials, and a washer/dryer combo for guest use.

Tiny House guests have full access to the land and trails, and are encouraged to seek out star gazing and Northern Lights viewing from the comfort of the hammocks in the Picnic Garden, or out at Cricket Circle in the Near Meadow.

photo: Leigha Horton
photo: Leigha Horton
photo: Leigha Horton
photo: Leigha Horton
  •   It's hard to create a space that can feel more comfortable and restorative than home. Leigha and Travis have achieved this and more in this cozy getaway. Even in -20°... read more

    thumb Cara
    February 13, 2025

      We love this AirBnB so much that we have gone here more than once. It's so peaceful and beautiful. We can't wait to go again!

    thumb Catherine
    February 2, 2025

      A peaceful setting with thoughtful touches throughout the space. I really enjoyed the woods, windows, soaking tub and fireplace.

    thumb Chelsea
    January 25, 2025

      This was our second time staying here and it is simply the best. A very relaxing and welcoming atmosphere along with a beautiful property to enjoy. And not to mention... read more

    thumb Andrew
    January 20, 2025

      We had a great stay! Very peaceful and pristine. We couldn’t have asked for anything more.

    thumb Becky
    January 12, 2025

      We had such a wonderful stay at Leigha & Travis' rental home. It was just what we needed. Peaceful, clean, relaxing and chill. The home itself is... read more

    thumb K
    January 6, 2025

      I stayed in Leigha's place for my anniversary with my wife and we loved everything about it. The place was clean and decorated in a very peaceful and beautiful way.... read more

    thumb Stephen
    December 29, 2024

      We had a wonderful, relaxing time at Leigha and Travis’ spot. We took great walks around the property, lounged by the fire, and cooked great meals in the beautiful kitchen.... read more

    thumb Luke
    December 22, 2024

      We had the most wonderful and relaxing stay at Silvae Spiritus! Leigha and Travis are the kindest hosts and were so helpful in guiding us through the property’s various amenities.... read more

    thumb Macy
    December 18, 2024
  •   looks just like the pictures. super cute set up. perfect for a romantic get away. host was proactive in communication and responded quickly. will be staying again in the future.

    thumb Maria
    December 8, 2024

      I enjoyed a peaceful, relaxing, and thoroughly rejuvenating pre-Thanksgiving solo writer's retreat at Leigha and Travis's beautiful rental and amazing 30-acre property. The lodging was spacious and beautifully decorated, with... read more

    thumb Nichole
    November 27, 2024

      Perfectly peaceful and beautiful area with great walking trails and a map for them.
    Worth every penny.

    thumb Brian
    November 17, 2024

      Very beautiful place! We did not do the sauna or other add-ons, but the inside of the cabin was gorgeous and incredibly cozy.

    thumb Mitch
    November 10, 2024

      I had an incredible stay! The place was spotless, with all the amenities I needed for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The hosts were incredibly welcoming and made me feel... read more

    thumb Jenna
    November 3, 2024

      My siblings and I had such a nice time at this cabin for a little Halloween getaway! The property is gorgeous and full of little trails to walk on, the... read more

    thumb Maria
    October 27, 2024

      Our accommodations exceeded our expectations. So clean, well designed and well, great Feng Shui down to the smallest details. Every aspect of design, decor and amenities felt like a... read more

    thumb Deborah
    October 21, 2024

      This place is just down right good for the soul.
    Peaceful, welcoming, beyond well cared for/updated guest house, walking trails, fire pits, private deck, but most of all... a wood... read more

    thumb Cassandra
    October 13, 2024

      This is one of the best stays I have had. Leigha and Travis were excellent hosts. I can tell how much they genuinely care about the beautiful land, the home... read more

    thumb Thea
    September 29, 2024
  •   100% recommend. Leigha and Travis are amazing hosts. We had a peaceful and relaxing 2 night stay. Everything about the space was lovely, clean, and comfortable. There were so... read more

    thumb Laura
    August 30, 2024

      Such a lovely place, from the friendly and chill animal neighbors, to the beautiful interior and exterior views. I would stay here again in a heartbeat

    thumb Brittany
    August 18, 2024

      Such a special place, so happy to have visited and can’t wait to come again and spend more time!

    thumb Erin
    August 14, 2024

      Absolutely amazing experience, definitely will be coming back.

    thumb Oliver
    August 6, 2024

      This was the perfect place for a personal retreat. I appreciated all of the amenities and thoughtful touches, as well as the guided sauna and forest bathing experiences provided by... read more

    thumb Lindsay
    August 3, 2024

      We loved our stay. The space was clean, private, comfortable, spacious, and had everything we needed!

    thumb Laura
    July 28, 2024

      We had a great time, the place was clean, private, and beautiful!

    thumb Isabelle
    July 24, 2024

      The location was beautiful and quiet. It was exactly what my husband and I were looking for when we wanted to find a location that helped us relax. The Sauna... read more

    thumb Amanda
    July 21, 2024

      This is my second time staying at Silvae Spiritus Northwoods Nature Retreat, and I hope it will become a yearly trip! Silvae Spiritus Northwoods Nature Retreat is surrounded by nature... read more

    thumb Kelly
    July 13, 2024
  •   This was probably the best cared for property that we have ever stayed at. Beyond that, we felt warmth and hospitality in every detail. The accommodations were spacious and clean.... read more

    thumb Christine
    July 7, 2024

      We loved the space and the quiet peacefulness. everything was beautiful and the details made us feel so special.

    thumb Catherine
    June 26, 2024

      Beautiful and perfect

    thumb Suzanne
    June 23, 2024

      beautiful and peaceful!

    thumb Julie
    June 15, 2024

      This was our third girls weekend getaway at Travis and Leigha’s beautiful space, and as usual, everything was lovely. The setting is gorgeous, the space is cozy and so comfortable.... read more

    thumb Jennifer
    June 2, 2024

      Literally the best Air B&B in Minnesota! My girlfriend and I visited (second time for me) and it was a gloriously peaceful and romantic weekend. Thank you Leigha and Travis!... read more

    thumb Colleen
    May 26, 2024

      I booked a stay at Silvae Spiritus for a little solo retreat - a time to step away, get some rest for a weary soul, and hopefully leave recharged. Leigh... read more

    thumb Shera
    May 23, 2024

      Silvae Spiritus is a must stay!! (10/10) Leigha and Travis have created such a peaceful and beautiful oasis, that is was so hard to leave. The place was cozy, clean... read more

    thumb Theresa
    May 19, 2024

      This is our favorite Airbnb and our 3rd time here! You can't beat the tranquility, the sights (we saw the northern lights!!!), and the amenities. The kitchen is huge and... read more

    thumb Melissa
    May 14, 2024
  •   100% recommend. We had a wonderful 2 night stay--so peaceful and relaxing. Everything about the space was lovely, clean, and comfortable. We didn't do the sauna experience but it looked... read more

    thumb Anne
    May 5, 2024

      My husband and I very much enjoyed our stay. Leigh and Travis's place was so relaxing and just the kind of weekend away we needed! They were friendly and top... read more

    thumb April
    April 14, 2024

      We loved the place and the surroundings, lots of nature and comforts. Extra thanks to Leigha and Travis for the add-on forest bathing & sauna - wonderful!

    thumb Jenny
    April 4, 2024

      Leigha and Travis were the most kind and accommodating people. The property and guest suite were so peaceful and cozy. Exactly what we were looking for. Definitely the most beautiful... read more

    thumb Roy
    April 1, 2024

      As high school teachers and busy mothers, my friend & I were looking for a serene retreat for our spring break. Leigha & Travis provided exactly that. ... read more

    thumb Mary Kate
    March 28, 2024

      We loved everything about our weekend stay here. It’s the most peaceful, serene, and beautiful property. Leigha and Travis are wonderful hosts and have thought of every detail to make... read more

    thumb Ieva
    March 24, 2024

      Leigha and Travis were great hosts. Friendly and informative about their property and different services from the sauna to the sound healing. Quiet and peaceful weekend. We’re planning our next... read more

    thumb Jay
    March 17, 2024

      The sauna experience was fantastic. I would recommend it!

    thumb Lee
    March 10, 2024

      It’s becoming a tradition. An oasis of warmth and hospitality in the woods. Leigha and Travis are beyond kind and accommodating. Sauna and a wood fired hot tub are not... read more

    thumb Lida
    March 7, 2024
  •   Leigha and Travis are the best and so accommodating.

    thumb Adeline
    February 19, 2024

      Again and again and again … this is one of my favorite places on Earth! Leigha & Travis are so genuine and sweet, and their space reflects that.

    thumb Adeline
    January 28, 2024

      It’s becoming a tradition to return to the charming cottage in the woods. Rejuvenating, peaceful and quiet retreat. A gem of a place. A sauna and a hot tub not... read more

    thumb Lida
    January 25, 2024

      This place is truly a hidden gem. I haven’t felt so relaxed, so at home, so comfortable while on vacation in a long time! If you stay you have to... read more

    thumb Hannah
    January 21, 2024

      Leigha and Travis were incredible hosts - kind, thoughtful, and friendly, all of which carried over to their place. This is one of the best places we have stayed at... read more

    thumb Megan
    January 15, 2024

      We’ve been wanting to visit here for SO LONG. Even with the short stay, this place is pure soul filling, spacious wonder. The spaces are so generous, and the hosts... read more

    thumb Rachel
    January 11, 2024

      The place was cute, clean,, and nice. The place did make a few noises but it’s because of the pipes and it was very cold when we stayed there.

    thumb Victoria
    January 5, 2024

      Exceeded expectations. The atmosphere was so perfect for a relaxing getaway. Every amenity had clear instructions and Leigha and Travis were very accommodating hosts. Five stars, will be back!

    thumb Peyton
    January 3, 2024

      This was one of the best places I’ve stayed hands down! The place was clean and matched the photos exactly. All of the spaces were functional and peaceful. I would... read more

    thumb Shannon
    December 30, 2023
  •   Very relaxing and peaceful surrounding

    thumb Stephanie
    December 17, 2023

      This is my 3rd stay at Silvae Spiritus, this time for a girl friend's weekend. It was the perfect rest and reboot needed before the busy holiday season. Leigha and... read more

    thumb Cara
    December 4, 2023

      Leigha and Travis were the perfect hosts. They radiated kindness and peacefulness. Everything during our stay was so well thought out. From the welcome basket full of trail mix, oatmeal... read more

    thumb Anna
    November 12, 2023

      Had heard about Leigha's place via t a youtube channel and it was located centrally (even though the area is beautifully rural) for a few business meetings. ... read more

    thumb David
    October 27, 2023

      We had a wonderful stay at Leigha's place. The layout is open and thoughtfully decorated and equipped. It has so many little touches everywhere that just remind you of the... read more

    thumb Amanda
    October 24, 2023

      This retreat is magical. It is beautiful and peaceful. I have been during 2 different seasons - each with its own sense of calm.

    thumb Cara
    October 21, 2023

      The sauna/hot tub session was outstanding! Really enjoyable. Leigha and Travis were gracious hosts. There was only one drawback for us. We are healthy 70+ year olds and going up... read more

    thumb John
    October 18, 2023

      A gorgeous, tranquil escape. I loved how mindfully the entire home is curated to be a secret escape in the woods. We loved the fireplace, the jacuzzi, the trails, games,... read more

    thumb Samantha
    October 15, 2023

      What a treat it was to stay here! Leigha was communicative, friendly, helpful and accommodating. It was truly a lovely place to be - we'll be back!

    thumb Kelly
    October 10, 2023
  •   We had a much needed relaxing weekend at Leigha’s guest house! It was so peaceful and had gorgeous views all around! The house was setup perfectly and had all kinds... read more

    thumb Brittany
    October 8, 2023

      Absolutely heavenly! Leigha's place is amazing, inside and out. Beautiful, clean, and spacious house with so many thoughtful touches. The balcony off the bedroom was like something out of the... read more

    thumb Jen
    October 3, 2023

      Magical. Rejuvenating. Spiritual. Joyful. Blissful.

    thumb J Lynne
    September 24, 2023

      What a wonderful, peaceful retreat this is! We were so lucky to be able to spend a weekend at Leigha and Travis’s. This property is gorgeous, inside and out. We... read more

    thumb Liz
    September 17, 2023

      Everything about our stay exceeded what we imagined. They’ve so thoughtfully created this space. It’s beautiful, organized, cozy, & they’ve added so many details to make it a comfortable &... read more

    thumb Chelsea
    September 10, 2023

      This is a very beautiful and relaxing place to stay. The house was spotless and the instructions were helpful. The host was wonderful to communicate with. I enjoyed my forest... read more

    thumb January
    September 7, 2023

      We absolutely loved our stay and Leigha was a fabulous host. The setting is dreamy and so peaceful from the comfy beds to the cozy living room and of course... read more

    thumb LuLu
    September 3, 2023

      Great stay. Loved the sauna.

    thumb Charles
    August 27, 2023

      Such a beautiful and wonderful space. There was so much room and they did such a great job setting up the space. I highly recommend this place for a... read more

    thumb Brian
    August 16, 2023
  •   Even with some changes to our stay on our end Leigha was excellent at communicating and a great host!

    thumb Alana
    August 5, 2023

      We are so grateful we stumbled upon this gem of an Airbnb! We are already thinking about when we want to visit again.

    The indoor space was amazing... read more

    thumb Jen
    July 31, 2023

      This was my third stay and it was just as cozy, relaxing and lovely as the first two! I would recommend this beautiful space to anyone looking to relax and... read more

    thumb Jennifer
    July 21, 2023

      This is second time I’ve had family staying at Silvae Spiritus and it was a joy of a location. Quiet trails to walk and chat, space to both gather and... read more

    thumb Doreen
    July 18, 2023

      the hosts thought of everything. they were very accommodating of our desire for a contactless check-in, and we had a delightful visit while checking out.

    thumb Brian
    July 14, 2023

      WOW!!! I cannot say enough about this experience. Truly magical, rejuvenating, unique. This was an incredibly special experience. We only stayed for one night and I feel ten years younger.... read more

    thumb Caitlin
    July 9, 2023

      Leigha and Travis's home is a beautiful, peaceful getaway in the woods. The suite is filled with many thoughtful touches that reflect their gracious sense of hospitality. As hosts, they... read more

    thumb Maureen
    July 8, 2023

      Silvae Spiritus is an incredible place for a getaway. The land is beautiful and peaceful, the space is relaxing and sublime, and each room has a special touch and detail... read more

    thumb Colleen
    June 27, 2023

      We LOVED our stay at Silvae Spiritus! Leigha and Travis were warm and welcoming from the moment I pulled up to the property, all the way until I left. The... read more

    thumb Megan
    June 17, 2023
  •   We did love the wood burning fireplace, especially since it was a chilly day. Bathroom and whirlpool tub is amazing!
    Accommodations are very nice but we would not return... read more

    thumb Deb
    June 11, 2023

      If you want peace and quiet, this is it. It would have been nice if there was access to the hot tub or sauna without the extra cost or guides.... read more

    thumb Carlos
    June 9, 2023

      Our second stay at Leigha’s fun and cozy AirBnB was just as relaxing as the first time. The space has everything you need, and is so clean and comfortable, with... read more

    thumb Jennifer
    June 4, 2023

      We enjoyed our stay at Leigha’s & Travis’s guest house. We didn’t take advantage of the sauna or forest bathing because we were there to bike. The beds were super... read more

    thumb Michele
    June 1, 2023

      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

      Silvae Spiritus is a magical place —gorgeous and peaceful setting, beautiful living space, wonderful hospitality and a sauna experience to delight in. We couldn’t have dreamed of a better place... read more

    thumb Ralph
    May 21, 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

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