Note: this page shares information about our Overnight Blue Ghost Forest Bathing retreat. If you’re short on time or are not interested in staying on site overnight, you might consider our 2.5hr Blue Ghost Firefly Night Hike instead.
Join us for an extraordinary overnight retreat dedicated to the search for the elusive Blue Ghost Fireflies—a rare and magical phenomenon found in only a handful of places in the world, including Western North Carolina!
What makes this experience truly special is that it takes place on 900+ acres of private conservation land, meaning you’ll witness these enchanting fireflies without the crowds that gather at other viewing locations. Even more magical? Your accommodations are located right on the property where the Blue Ghosts thrive, so these glowing wonders will be just outside your door—some of the most unique neighbors you’ll ever have!
The Blue Ghost Firefly season is incredibly short—only two weeks—making this an exceptionally rare and fleeting opportunity.
2025 retreats will take place May 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17 (private group retreats available upon request). Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness the magic of the Blue Ghost Fireflies in a peaceful, private setting. Spaces are limited—reserve your spot now!
Early Bird Pricing in effect until April 1!
The centerpiece of this retreat is the guided evening adventure in search of the blue ghosts. During this portion of the retreat, you’ll experience forest bathing, a deeply immersive and mindful way to connect with nature. This practice invites you to slow down, quiet your mind, and awaken your senses—allowing you to fully sink into the magic of the forest as the Blue Ghosts emerge around you. There’s no right or wrong way to forest bathe—just bring an open heart, an adventurous spirit, and be yourself. All is welcome in the forest!
Arrive between 5pm – 6pm and settle into your cozy accommodations.
Family Dinner:
Savor a delectable dinner with your retreat companions. Our family-style dinner will be prepared by Chef Katie with locally-sourced ingredients that celebrate the season’s bounty. Enjoy the warmth of the fire, engage in meaningful conversation, and delight in the flavors of a thoughtfully prepared meal.
Evening Guided Forest Bathing Experience:
The evening begins with a gentle, guided stroll into a peaceful forest as the sun sets and sparkling fireflies emerge. We hope to see the elusive Blue Ghost Fireflies and will surely enjoy the forest at twilight and other beings present there.
Wholesome Continental Breakfast:
Wander the peaceful grounds and start your day at your leisure. We’ll prepare a delicious spread including traditional delights like fruit, toast, nut butter, whipped butter, overnight oats, coffee, and hot tea.
Check Out:
Check out time is 10am. We hope you return home with a renewed sense of peace and a heart full of wonder!
Spend the evening in a cozy, charming, historic cabin overlooking a lake, just steps from the Blue Ghost Firefly forest we’ll visit on our guided night adventure. Enjoy spacious wraparound porches, crackling fire places, a full kitchen, common areas for getting to know your retreat companions, comfy beds, and hot showers!
Each cabin is equipped with a full kitchen, living room, bedrooms, and shared bathrooms.
Cabin 1 was built in 1935 from Poplar, Oak, and Stone gathered from the property. The beautiful river rock fireplace still warms the main room today! Sleeping arrangements:
Cabin 2 was built in the 1850s with hand-hewn walls of Oak and a ceiling made of American Chestnut, cut from the property. The structure stood elsewhere originally and was disassembled then reassembled in its present location in 1954. Sleeping arrangements:
Rooms are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis by our staff to optimize the space we have available. Note: only one solo occupancy room is available per night.
