I did not expect this cabin to be a part of a larger retreat location (Shire in the Woods is the name of the company if you care to look them up and see what other retreat services/amenities they provide), but it was lovely in every way.
This cabin is small and off to the far edge of the main property, with windows that look off into the forest. Though the cabin is off to the side and secluded, we could see our nearest neighbors during our stay while they were there over the weekend. We had a couple instances of guests staying in other cabins walking by with their dog(s) to go on the trails in the forest that wrap around our cabin (my dogs were excited so I had to keep the curtains closed), but our hosts have high expectations for guests to keep the property quiet & peaceful (there is an incredible culture and ambiance about this place), and for every dog to remain on leash on the main property, so there was never a big issue with other dogs around. Also a heads up we had to drive past horses and swans (in fences on each side of the driveway) to enter the property. I had to distract my sheltered city dwelling dogs during all of that excitement!
We stayed beyond the weekend when the other guests left and it became our own little haven; it was incredible. The dogs were so relaxed without other guests they could see or hear. We woke up to a sprinkling of snow and had coffee and quiet in front of the fire with the forest around.
The internet was spotty and slow at times as others noted, so expect a place that forces you to unplug from the constant streaming of videos and news, but you can check your email if you need, or post a couple pretty photos you take of your adventures on the gram.
The hiking trails were incredible! Some were very well worn, some were so rustic I had to trust my dogs' to tell me where the trail continued. You can follow the maps posted throughout the trails on the property for shorter hikes and see beautiful sights like a beaver damn and lodge, or follow the trails deeper into the state forest to really get your fill of nature. They had maps in the cabin of some deeper-into-the-woods trails and spots to check out.
All in all, my stay was more than the reset I expected, and exactly what I needed. I sincerely appreciated the opportunity to take my dogs along with for hikes in our own space (thank you!) and would highly recommend Shire in the Woods to anyone looking for a MN retreat.
Thanks to the host family!