Spirit Cove

Teaming up with renowned Asheville-based Master Planner/Landscape Architect Sitework Studios, we are designing a serene retreat that will be surrounded by the natural beauty of the plant and tree life that thrives in the area.

Located amidst the majestic mountains of the Southern Appalachians and known as the City of Four Seasons, thanks to a mild and varied climate that offers recreational opportunities year-round. Only 25 miles from Asheville, NC, Hendersonville is home to scenic hiking trails, gorgeous waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains.

Kanuga is a sanctuary for the spirit, a year-round retreat nestled on 1,400 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains, featuring a 30-acre lake, hiking trails, full-service meeting and lodging facilities.  Kanuga's goal to serve as a place of healing and transformation aligns naturally with our goal of providing hope and healing to people overcoming illness or trauma. We couldn't imagine a more natural neighbor and community partner.

What's better than meeting with a Newfoundland Therapy dog? Having the opportunity to spend time with more than a dozen! These gentle giants have a natural ability to connect with people who need hope and healing. The Newfoundlands therapy dogs will live inside homes on the ranch with their animal care handlers in the family environment that they thrive in.

Gypsy Vanner horses are similar to Newfoundlands in personality. They are steady and unflappable, calm, gentle and compassionate. They are playful and enjoy connecting with people, and helping them heal.

The ranch will provide hope and healing to the everyday heroes who are the backbone of our communities, including Veterans, first responders, healthcare workers, teachers, and others overcoming illness and trauma. Therapy programs will range from 2-hour sessions to full-day art and nature therapy programs supported by the animals. The ranch will also provide support and training to therapy handlers to help support the growing demand for desperately needed mental health support services throughout North Carolina and the country.