NRG Sanctuary
Linda Birchhas been imagining all of the uses of her property since she bought it in 1997. NRG Sanctuary is the latest venture, inspired by the success of short-term rentals and the beauty of her area. The 115-acre property consists of a forest area and a rehabilitated gravel pit, that was replanted with trees in 2007
NRG, which stands for Nature’s Rejuvenating Gardens, is located near the Hullett Provincial Wildlife Area, one of the region’s outstanding natural resources. The cabin was built in 2009, originally intended to be the home of Birch’s massage therapy business and renovated in 2021 to include a full kitchen and bathroom, complete with electricity, running water and a composting toilet.
Birch designed the cabin herself, and was sure to bring as much natural light in as possible with large windows and skylights in the main living area, and additional skylights in the roofs of both the east and west porches which catch the morning and afternoon sun. In addition to the two porches, there is a large patio area with a chiminea for evening stargazing.
The property also includes a campsite that overlooks a tranquil pond with a firepit area and a large gazebo for dining and entertaining, that is fully stocked with a table and mini-fridge. The site will hold up to a 28-foot trailer and three to five tents, and can be rented on its own or with the cabin to create a dream family get-away. The campsite has an electric outlet (suitable for charging phones, or running small appliances) and a port-a-potty, with plans to build an outdoor shower in the future.
Birch and a group of hardy friends maintain the 10-kilometre network of hiking trails throughout the property that were built by the previous owners. The Snells were avid skiers and created their own ski trails and then built the house with the lumber from the felled trees. The trails system is both numbered and coloured for ease of use. A map is available to guide you, but the coding system is very easy to use. Birch had first colour-coded the trails, but then discovered the ease of the numbering system that is popular in Europe and has since coded the network in both systems. The trails are equally suitable for cross-country skiing in winter.
The cabin rental also includes access to a large swim spa, which is a 10’ x 18’ combination hot tub/lap pool. Birch’s swim spa is unique with a special sound system that travels through water and bodies to promote healing. The spa is used as part of her massage therapy business where she uses playlists that utilize specific hertz waves to help her clients.
NRG Sanctuary is centrally located in Huron County, making it an ideal base for exploring the theatres, beaches, wineries and breweries of the area. In fact, since opening just two years ago, Birch is now seeing repeat visitors. Guests most frequently comment on the quietness of the place, set far back from the quiet road and miles from the nearest highway, there is no traffic noise to interrupt your serenity. She has worked hard to ensure that everything you need is on hand, just bring your clothes and food!
In addition to the rentals, Birch can tailor an experience just for you. Visit the website at www.nrgsanctuary.com and choose from a range of spa, wellness and massage services. You can find them on Facebook or book through Airbnb.