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: 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

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 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.

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 private 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

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: Leigha Horton
photo: Leigha Horton
photo: Leigha Horton
photo: Nelson Morlock
  •   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

      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

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