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Awaken to nature’s beauty at Whispering Pines Retreat!

Photo gallery for Awaken to nature’s beauty at Whispering Pines Retreat!

A rock formation with a water feature in a natural setting.
A living room with a pool table, a sofa, and a bed with a headboard.
A door with a wreath, a welcome sign, and a sign for Whispering Pines Retreat.
A modern kitchen with white cabinetry, a granite countertop, a built-in oven, and a microwave.
A swimming pool with a water fountain, surrounded by rocks and pebbles, with a wooden deck and a grassy area in the background.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • Made for relaxation
    Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Balcony
  • Swimming pool
  • Arcade/game room
  • Barbecue grill
  • Air conditioning
  • Refrigerator

Explore the area

View in a map
St.Marys, ON
  • Place, St. Marys Museum
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Place, St. Mary's Farmers' Market
    ‪16 min drive‬
  • Place, Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum
    ‪16 min drive‬
  • Airport, London, ON (YXU-London Intl.)
    ‪34 min drive‬

Where you'll sleep

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Open Concept

2 Queen Beds

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Awaken to nature’s beauty at Whispering Pines Retreat!

Awaken to nature’s beauty at Whispering Pines Retreat!

Breathe the fresh country air…feel the crisp pond waters…hold hands while wandering the paths…and gaze at the wonderment of the stars through the pine trees.

The short journey from St.Marys, Ontario’s stone town, will take you to your own oasis, away from everything. Whispering Pines Retreat is just 10 minutes from St.Marys, 20-30 minutes from London and 2 hours from Toronto.

You may come in need of a connection to nature or just a break from everyday life. You will go home a different person, enriched from the experience of living among trees, away from the city.

Whispering Pines Retreat is an off-grid establishment built on a 27 acre wooded lot. Your biggest adjustment will be getting used to no noise. You will not hear cars driving by or the honking of car horns. Rather, you will be sung poetry by birds, hear the breeze whistling among the trees and be fully embraced by nature.

You enter Whispering Pines Retreat by driving down a quaint lane surrounded by towering pine and black walnut trees. As you amble around the pond, you will come to your home away from home. The 1,350+ square foot second floor welcomes you with many of the comforts of home including two queen size beds, dining table, automatic coffee maker, comfy sofas, pool table, ping pong table and so much more. The open concept makes it easy to view nature even while you are inside – from trees to a sprawling organic farm field, to the many birds that make Whispering Pines Retreat their home.

Become reenergized and inspired with a stay at Whispering Pines Retreat. It will remain a part of you for life!

Your comfort is our chief concern. Ample space and no shortage of amenities await your stay. Whispering Pines is more than a cottage, it's your retreat!
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 13-17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
We kindly ask to respect the beauty of Whispering Pines Retreat. Thank you!

Important information

You need to know

Property # 887554
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the neighborhood

Perth South

Located in Perth South, this vacation home is in a rural area. Ironwood Golf Club and Stratford Municipal Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum and Shakespearean Gardens. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Avon Theatre or Stronach Arena. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, or check out other outdoor activities such as snowmobiling and ice skating.
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Map
St.Marys, ON

What's nearby

  • St. Marys Museum - 15 min drive - 12.1 km
  • St. Mary's Farmers' Market - 16 min drive - 12.4 km
  • Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum - 16 min drive - 12.8 km
  • River Valley Winter Tube Slide - 17 min drive - 12.8 km
  • McCully's Hill Farm - 20 min drive - 17.8 km

Getting around

  • St. Marys Station - 12 min drive
  • London, ON (YXU-London Intl.) - 32 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Towne & Country Cheese Shoppe - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Pizza Hut St. Marys - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Royal Canadian Legion Branch 236 - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Awaken to nature’s beauty at Whispering Pines Retreat! have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

How much does it cost to stay at Awaken to nature’s beauty at Whispering Pines Retreat!?

As of Sep 25, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Awaken to nature’s beauty at Whispering Pines Retreat! on Sep 28, 2026 start from $230, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is Awaken to nature’s beauty at Whispering Pines Retreat! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Awaken to nature’s beauty at Whispering Pines Retreat!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Awaken to nature’s beauty at Whispering Pines Retreat!?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Awaken to nature’s beauty at Whispering Pines Retreat! located?

Situated in a rural location, this vacation home is within 9 mi (15 km) of St. Mary's Farmers' Market, St. Marys Museum, and Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. McCully's Hill Farm is 8.8 mi (14.2 km) away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 146 out of 151 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 151 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 151 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 151 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 151 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property was absolutely stunning! The communication from the host was great as well! Definitely would stay there again!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Whispering Pines is always wonderful to stay at! This was our fifth year coming to Whispering Pines as a family. The property is breathtaking and the hosts are wonderful and easy to communicate with! There is always something fun to do on the property, whether it be swimming, walking the trail, or having a campfire. We look forward to continuing to stay at Whispering Pines in the future!
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 25, 2026
Thank you Mary for the lovely comments. It was wonderful to see you and your family again this year and for choosing to stay at Whispering Pines Retreat. Glad that our retreat meets all of your needs as a family. Take Care! Gail & Andy
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A peaceful retreat with all the modern comforts of home. We would highly recommend it for couples looking to relax and recharge.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 29, 2026
Thank you Nella! Happy to hear that you found the rest that you were looking for. Hope to see you again when you need to recharge. Take care! Gail & Andy
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our first time to the area and we just adored it. The property was so great and comfortable to lounge and play. We wish the weather would've cooperated to enjoy the pool and outdoors more but our small family did use and enjoy all amenities. The owners take great pride in their property and unfortunately that can be hard to come by with a rental as I travel frequently. We hope to return at some point.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 18, 2026
Thank you Alisha for your generous words. Much appreciated! It's a labour of love. :D It was a pleasure meeting and hosting you and your family. Hope to see all of you for more outdoor fun.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic place for a getaway, it checks all of the boxes, everything was as advertised and more. I highly recommend the Whispering Pines Retreat.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Feb 17, 2026
Thank you Mario! It was a pleasure having you and your wife stay with us. Glad that it met and exceeded your expectations. We look forward to seeing you again this year. All the best! Gail & Andy
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Gail and Andy provided an amazing stay for us. By far one of the best places that we've stayed. So beautiful. So clean and organized. The perfect retreat.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on May 28, 2026
Thank you Cassandra. You're kind words are appreciated. We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your stay with us. Hope to see you again! Gail & Andy
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a good stay in this one room loft.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 18, 2025
Glad you enjoyed your stay!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We always enjoy our stay on this property! Gail is an excellent host. The property is a lovely setting looking out into the trees. The retreat is well equipped with everything you need.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Jan 14, 2026
Thank you Judy for your kind words. We look forward to hosting you and your family again. Stay well! Gail & Andy
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful place to wind down… quiet all around with beautiful sunset view!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 10, 2025
Thank you Hélène! Happy to hear that you enjoyed the quiet space and were able to relax. Hope to see you again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place to stay

Amazing area , beautiful grounds, cottage is every equipped with everything you need .
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 20, 2023
Hi Laurie, Thank you for your review. We are pleased that it met everything that you needed to have a wonderful stay. Until next time....stay well. Gail & Andy
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Beautiful, relaxing and peaceful. Whispering Pines is a great place to recharge the soul
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This place is a hidden gem! Nothing makes us happier than when a vacation rental and its owners exceed our expectations! Both are amazing. This open concept loft is spacious and spotless. Every small detail has been well thought out, which made for an exceptional getaway. We enjoyed walking on the trails, swimming, playing pool, golf, and just relaxing. The property is clearly a labour of love. From the perfectly manicured lawn & gardens, the signage and gems placed along the trails, the enhanced linens & toiletries offered, to all the interesting antique touches throughout the loft, it really set this place apart and made it feel special. Everything was well marked with friendly signage and labels. Whispering Pines is a beautiful, private retreat. It’s away from, but close enough to the hustle and bustle of the touristy areas, without the steep touristy prices. The location is excellent (30 min to Stratford and 40 min to Grand Bend). It was an easy drive to both and we loved coming back to our private retreat with so many amenities after a day of visiting the other towns. I’d be remiss not to mention how much we appreciated all the little things that made this getaway a place we want to come back to… the fluffy towels, the soft bed linens, the ice maker, the filtered water, and even just the clean smell of the unit and the soft toilet paper showed us that the owners take great pride in their property and in treating their guests exactly how they would want to be treated.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place

Beautiful place with pride in ownership making a comfortable private place to stay Thanks for the hospitality!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 3, 2023
Thank you Chris for your kind review. We are happy that you were able to kick back and enjoy. Hope to see you again! Take care, Gail & Andy
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Always enjoy our time at Whispering Pines

We return every Christmas to have some down time and enjoy the lovely setting of this property.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Feb 6, 2024
Thank you Judy! It's always wonderful having you and your family stay us. Hope to see you again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful property

Very quiet and peaceful retreat.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jan 4, 2023
Thank you Herpall for staying. We're pleased that you enjoyed your stay with us. Happy New Year! Gail & Andy
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Christmas Getaway

We always enjoy our stay at this property! Peaceful and beautifully nestled in the woods. Hosts are great!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jan 4, 2023
Thank you Judy! We look forward to hosting you again. Happy New Year! Gail & Andy
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had such a wonderful stay at whispering pines this year! This is now our fourth year coming to whispering pines! Gail and Andy are wonderful hosts and are always there to help if we needed anything! The property is beautiful and the retreat is very relaxing. We look forward to coming back next summer!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 26, 2025
Thank you Mary! It's always wonderful having you and your family return back to the retreat. Glad that everyone is able to kick back and unwind. Take Care!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Whispering pines was a perfect weekend getaway! Gail has truly thought of every small detail to make sure you have every amenity to make your stay comfortable and fun!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fall getaway

We enjoyed a beautiful fall weekend at whispering pines, enjoyed walking the trail and relaxing with a good book by the pond.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Nov 12, 2024
Thank you Debbie for staying with us. We are happy that you had a pleasant stay and you were able to relax.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely beautiful retreat!

This place is stunning. So spacious
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 5, 2022
Hi Lorri....thank you....glad to hear that you were pleased. Gail & Andy
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Very relaxing - loved not seeing anybody - it was great for a forest bath vibe - tech savvy internally - super clean and had everything you need - great place to stay to start writing that book you’ve always dreamed of !! Bring a cooler of food and snacks and you will be set for a weekend away from the buzz of life - I’m going back if the host will have me - best VRBO I’ve been to.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Cozy Winter Get Away

What a great stay! Beautiful property with some wooded area to explore! Very cozy with lots of entertainment options inside. Overall great experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Feb 23, 2024
Thank you Brock & Hannah! We are happy to have hosted the two of you. Glad that you enjoyed your time at Whispering Pines Retreat. We hope to see you again! Cheers, Gail & Andy
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Whispering Pines

A beautiful and peaceful stay at a gorgeous and clean rental. We loved playing games of pool and walking the trail, we cannot wait to return for another weekend getaway!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Feb 10, 2023
Hi Nicol....it was such a pleasure hosting you both.....we look forward to seeing you again....stay well, Gail & Andy
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a beautiful peaceful wooded rural retreat. Very cozy & comfortable with pleasant clean decor & quality amenities. Enjoyed swimming in the fresh water pond & a walk on the property. Very well-equipped, easy to book & great communication with hosts. They provide everything for a relaxing stay in a lovely environment. Plan to return for sure!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 23, 2025
Thank you very much Martha for your kind words. We are pleased that you and your family enjoy everything that the retreat and the property has to offer. We look forward to seeing you again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

A beautiful and relaxing getaway. Andy and Gail are great hosts and you have everything you need to feel at home. St Mary's is also a very quaint and chill town. Thanks again for hosting us
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 5, 2022
Thank you Noah for your feedback. Happy to hear that you were pleased with the retreat and that you enjoyed our lovely town. Stay well, Gail & Andy

About the host

Hosted by Gail Kenworthy-Forman

Host profile image
The white pine, spruce, cedar and black walnut trees were planted over 30 years ago on this 27 acre property. Originally, these trees were planted to be harvested. We are thankful that never occurred, so that we were able to build our home, enjoy the serenity of the property every day and able to call this retreat ‘home’.

Why they chose this property

Whispering Pines Retreat can be found on a 27 acre bush lot, complete with fully grown white pine, spruce, cedar and black walnut trees. There are also oak, maple, cherry, elm and other tree species growing throughout the bush. In season, you can eat wild raspberries everywhere.

What makes this property unique

The 12 foot deep pond can be enjoyed by all. It is a clean fresh water pond. You can sit on the deck, on the bench beside the pond or lounge on the beach. Feel free to relish the pond surroundings and the path that leads to the pond. At night, listen to the sounds of a few of nature’s wonders…the harmonious sound of frogs and crickets singing and talking.

Please Note: Swim at your own risk! No lifeguard on duty! Parents are responsible for their children!

Languages:

English, French

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