“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
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.
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, visit What We Do. To book a Guided Walk session during your stay, contact us to ensure availability before registering. Once your walk time is scheduled, visit our Registration page to confirm with payment.
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A truly special & enchanting place that celebrates the beauty of the surrounding woods with complete coziness in mind. So... read more 
Tara
1/26/2022 Leigha was a great communicator; quick responses. They were even able to offer a 1 hour early check in. We... read more 
Samantha
1/22/2022 This was my third time here after a visit in the summer and fall. There are so many things to... read more 
Adeline
1/17/2022 We would definitely stay here again! The space, the atmosphere, and the amenities were everything we expected and more! The... read more 
Tyler
1/09/2022 I highly recommend this house. The house is very relaxing, clean, and filled with comfortable furniture. The place was well... read more 
Niccolo
1/06/2022 Such a wonderful place, and even more spacious and beautiful than the photos do justice! 
Tanner
12/20/2021 My friends and I enjoyed a fairy tale perfect retreat here this week, hiking the trails on the property, cooking... read more 
Heidi
12/17/2021 This place was the most relaxing winter stays I’ve ever had. The tub is amazing, comfortable furniture, thoughtful and kind... read more 
Emily
12/12/2021 This place is special…it cleared our heads and filled our hearts with serenity and calm.
I booked this... read more 
Anna
12/07/2021 - This place was amazing! Leigha and Travis are incredible hosts who communicate perfectly and provided a comfortable and relaxing stay.... read more
Claire
11/24/2021 Great place. Great surroundings. Great hosts. 100% wonderful place to stay. If you are waffling on... read more 
Janet
11/21/2021 We had a wonderful time! The place was lovely and cozy, and we would definitely recommend scheduling a forest bathing... read more 
Will
11/13/2021 Really cool property and great vibes all around ! Would highly recommend. 
Liam
11/07/2021 As always a great stay! I was here in the summer and it is just as beautiful in new ways... read more Adeline
10/31/2021 Quiet, secluded location with plenty of room to explore. Large, open main floor living area with spiral staircase leading... read more 
Timothy
10/24/2021 Beautiful place to stay and get away! Landscape and trails are beautiful, the living space upstairs was so comfortable and... read more 
Derek
10/17/2021 A great place with amazing hosts! Emily
10/14/2021 The owners are lovely people who are particular and pay attention to all of the details, big and small. ... read more 
Desiree
10/10/2021 - This spot is an amazing place to relax and enjoy the wonderful nature-rich experience that is northern Minnesota. To put... read more
John
10/04/2021 This isn’t just a place, it’s an experience. If you’re looking for the perfect “Retreat” sanctuary, visit “Silvae Spiritus”! Leigha... read more 
Alexandra
10/03/2021 This is a wonderful hidden gem that I definitely hope to return to. The hosts are beyond kind, and so... read more 
Danielle
9/27/2021 Beautiful design and lovely woods to explore. Definitely coming back! 
Miriam
9/19/2021 Travis and Leigha are amazing hosts. Their place is exactly like the photos and they are very gracious hosts and... read more Sheila
8/27/2021 Great place to stay. Comfy and Quiet. Corey
8/19/2021 Beautiful place to stay and get away! Landscape and trails are beautiful, the living space upstairs was so comfortable and... read more Derek
10/17/2021 A great place with amazing hosts! Emily
10/14/2021 The owners are lovely people who are particular and pay attention to all of the details, big and small. ... read more Desiree
10/10/2021
EVERY DAY IS EARTH DAY:
Every booking = one tree planted!