Stay In A Hobbit-Inspired Underground Home In Hocking Hills

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Nature Mystique Retreat in Hocking Hills, Ohio, enchants guests with the lure of a retreat like no other. Stay underground in one of their cozy, eco-friendly homes while embracing the peaceful serenity of the rolling hills.

Reconnecting with nature is a focus at Nature Mystique Retreat, also known as Magical Earth Retreat. Gather for lively conversations around the fire pit, gaze at the stars while soaking in a cedar hot tub, or take the dogs for a morning stroll to catch a spectacular sunrise.

Discover Hocking Hills State Park

Nature Mystique Retreat sits on the outskirts of Ohio’s famed Hocking Hills State Park. Dynamic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails await guests looking to experience the great outdoors.

The top Hocking Hills hikes include Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls. There are even a few trails that offer paved walkways, such as Conkle’s Hollow.

Best Hiking Trails In Hocking Hills — Ash Cave in Hocking Hills

A quick twenty-minute drive from Nature Mystique Retreat will have you in downtown Logan, in Hocking County. Try the samples at Hocking Hills Moonshine, take the kids to play at the new Hocking Hills Children’s Museum, or grab a bite to eat at a local favorite, such as Pizza Crossing.

Throughout the Hocking Hills area, guests can enjoy various activities such as zip lining, biking, canoeing, wineries, and more.

Check out our tips for visiting the Hocking Hills Children’s Museum.

A Look Inside The Aspen Retreat

Nature Mystique Retreat offers various retreat options, from a cozy hobbit hole to a Moccaron-style adobe. On a recent visit, we stayed at the Aspen Retreat, which had a queen-size bed, a full bed, a kitchenette, a living space, and a beautiful full bathroom with a walk-in shower.

Upon arrival, guests are requested to park in their designated area. Wagons are available to help cart your belongings to your retreat.

Planning Tip: Pack Light. The retreats are small; it is a hobbit house, after all, so space is limited.

Strolling up to the charming underground abode, you are greeted by friendly garden gnomes and flower gardens. We went in the winter, so glistening snow covered the gardens.

A wood-burning cedar hot tub is directly outside of your retreat, along with a fire pit and a flat-top grill.

Cozy Meets Practical

Once inside, flip on the electric fireplace to create a cozy ambiance. The space is fully furnished with special touches such as a Keurig, luxury linens, and even a few novels. The kitchenette has the necessities you will need to prepare meals; however, don’t go in with the expectation of creating a Thanksgiving feast.

There is a two-burner flat-top stove, microwave, and small fridge with freezer space. Whipping up a steak dinner or scrambled eggs for breakfast was a breeze. Don’t forget to utilize the flat-top grill outdoors.

Sustainability is key at Nature Mystique Retreat, with initiatives such as incorporating recycled materials in their designs, such as reclaimed wood on the living room wall and the whiskey barrel sink in the bathroom.

Cozy retreats in Hocking Hills Ohio — Cozy up with a book

With the underground construction of the retreats, temperatures don’t go below 58 degrees, so they are very energy efficient in addition to utilizing their own well water.

Reserve the Sauna

One unique feature of the Nature Mystique Retreat is its on-site sauna in a barrel! The sauna does have an additional fee and must be reserved. Ask about sauna pricing and specials upon booking.

Tip: The sauna will initially be cold if you are the first user of the day. Allow about ten minutes for it warm up after you turn it on.

Wood-Burning Cedar Hot Tub

An intriguing feature of the retreat is that each unit has its own wood-burning cedar hot tub. In full transparency, this may not be for you because to get the hot tub hot (102 degrees or more), you will have to maintain a fire for a few hours before it reaches that desired temperature.

Fire starters and dry wood for the hot tub are available to guests at no additional cost.

Another important feature to note is that the hot tub is small. I would say only one adult can comfortably fit into the hot tub with their shoulders submerged. There is seating in the tub, but a good portion of your back would be exposed if it is utilized.

Tip: Watch the instructional video on how to use the wood-burning hot tub that is sent to you before your visit.

Things To Bring With You To Nature Mystique Retreat

While you are packing for a getaway, we have a few items that you don’t want to forget.

Slippers– On cold winter days, the retreat floor can get chilly. Bring slippers or warm, cozy socks to keep your tootsies warm.
Slip-On Sandals– These will be useful when going to and from the hot tub and the sauna.
Games– One of our favorite memories is playing board games by the fire.
Smore Supplies– There is an area for a campfire by each retreat. Don’t forget the supplies to create this tasty campfire treat.
Robe – Having a robe to quickly get in and out of at the sauna or hot tub will help keep you warm and dry.
Cooking supplies: While the retreat is equipped with the basics, such as salt/pepper, sugar, and coffee creamer, don’t forget to bring items to cook with, such as butter or cooking spray and spices.