The Forest Hermitage is part of Turtle Haven Sanctuary nearby and has a specific purpose of providing inspiration and retreat for artists, writers, naturalists, and those drawn to stillness and inner contemplation, in need of rest, and renewal. The two-story structure is located in a forest grove on several wooded acres, across the road from the middle fork of the Nooksack River. This Pacific Northwest corner is renowned for its spawning salmon in season, abundant eagles, and other wildlife. The Mount Baker Snoqualmie Wilderness is just 20 miles away. Bellingham is just 35 minutes away, for those wanting to venture out. The Hermitage house has two completely private bedrooms, as well as other comfortable sleeping spaces, a jetted tub, an indoor and an outdoor shower! The extremely well-equipped kitchen has a full-size refrigerator, gas stove, microwave, and filtered well water throughout the premises. The Hermitage has beautiful artwork, much of it created by local artists and available for purchase, antique and vintage furnishings, as well as lovely and unique rugs on solid oak wood flooring throughout the dwelling, with an intention to inspire and nourish those who choose to stay here. A cozy living room area adjacent to the spacious kitchen and farmhouse dining table has a large sofa, rocking chair, and gas fireplace, as well as a maker’s alcove with a writing desk. Upstairs there is a library and another desk for sitting with your muse. There are heat pumps on both floors for eco-friendly heating and cooling. The Hermitage is on a rural road, perfect for long walks. During certain hours, Hermitage dwellers may have access to Turtle Haven Sanctuary, a 10-minute walk, with its trails, shrine areas, river access, view of the Twin Sisters mountains, and 11 circuit labyrinth. Forest Hermitage guests will be left in privacy unless resources of Turtle Haven Sanctuary are desired. It is necessary to arrange a visit to Turtle Haven in advance of your stay. Please visit The Turtle Haven Sanctuary website for more information. Forest Hermitage offers deep respite, nourishing stillness, and a vast opportunity for creative endeavors, spiritual seeking, and inspiration from the natural world. We prefer to host guests aligned with The Hermitage's intention. Please refer to" Policies and Rules" to access more information about our reasoning regarding toddlers and young children as Hermitage guests. We prefer to book with guests that offer a full profile (photo + description/introduction of themselves as part of their profile. Reviews and verifications are helpful too). Thank you for understanding! The entire house and surrounding forest, an outdoor shower, a separate laundry building with a utility sink and toilet, easily accessible walks to the Nooksack River and to the Turtle Haven Sanctuary land, by prior arrangement. We respect the privacy of our guests and are available to respond to specific needs. See The Turtle Haven Sanctuary website to find out more about the trails, shrines and the labyrinth. The Forest Hermitage, in the Southfork Valley of Whatcom County, is nestled on a beautiful perch across from the Nooksack River, whose song may often be heard in harmony with that of abundant bird calls. Salmon famously spawn in season along this river. Just a few miles down our peaceful rural road, the Whatcom Land Trust stewards acres of land to freely wander in a wide open field or along the Nooksack River. Stepping just outside The Hermitage, walks may also be taken along the quiet country road, or by arrangement to Turtle Haven Sanctuary with its Twin Sisters mountain views, shrine trails, gardens and 11 circuit labyrinth. Bellingham, which has a small user friendly international airport, is only 35 minutes away. This small, comfortable city offers a wealth of cultural opportunities and restaurants. Vancouver, BC, is just an hour and 15 minute drive north while Seattle is about 2 hours south. Mt. Baker is 40 miles or an hour drive away, offering breathtaking views, glorious hiking, as well as winter sports. There is a guest guidebook in The Hermitage with additional information on more local eateries and nearby shopping. Parking is available at The Hermitage. It is best to have your own car. If you wanted to access public transportation, you would need a bicycle to take on the public bus to and from Bellingham. SPECIAL NOTE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC We want to assure you that we are taking multiple sanitizing precautions during this time when the COVID 19 virus is still present in the population, and thus an important collective health issue. Our cleaning protocols include leaving the Hermitage completely unoccupied for a day, cleaning and disinfecting with thoroughness all frequently touched surfaces, including light switches, doorknobs, cabinet handles, railings, countertops, remote controls, thermostats, keys, etc before new guests check-in. We are making every effort to follow all the guidelines recommended by Airbnb and the CDC.