a cabin in the woods at night with northern lights in the sky

ROOTED IN PLACE, GUIDED BY PURPOSE

The story of Wild Rice Retreat begins long before the retreat itself. Shaped by the legacy of Bayfield, the traditions of the Ojibwe people, and the vision of two women committed to thoughtful stewardship, this land has always been a place of gathering, nourishment, and connection. Today, that legacy lives on in a retreat designed to honor the past while creating space for healing, renewal, and possibility.

A NAME ROOTED IN SPIRIT & STEWARDSHIP

The name Wild Rice carries two legacies. It honors Mary Rice, the beloved “Queen of Bayfield,” whose restaurant once stood on this land and whose generous, creative, and wonderfully unconventional spirit still lingers throughout the property. It also honors the region itself, where wild ricing, or manoomin, is a sacred Anishinaabe tradition rooted in reciprocity, ecological stewardship, and care for future generations. Together, these stories give Wild Rice Retreat its name and its deeper purpose: to honor the land, the people who came before, and the spirit of nourishment that continues here today.

AN INTENTION BLESSED BY THE LAND

Before construction began, Heidi walked the property with a medicine man from the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. He reminded her that the land was already blessed; what mattered was blessing the intention behind what would be created here. That intention continues to guide Wild Rice Retreat today, from the windows that frame Lake Superior to the food grown in the garden, returned to the earth, and shared with care.

THE FOUNDERS: TWO WOMEN, ONE VISION

Wild Rice Retreat began with a shared belief that this land could become something deeply restorative. Heidi Zimmer, a real estate developer with more than 25 years of experience and a certified yoga teacher, envisioned a retreat rooted in nature, movement, creativity, and care for the whole self. Inspired by destination wellness retreats in places like Sedona and Taos, she asked a simple question: Why should people have to travel across the country to find a place that takes rest, reflection, and renewal seriously?

2001

Mary Rice opens the acclaimed Wild Rice Restaurant, creating a beloved Bayfield gathering place and culinary destination.

2018

Heidi Zimmer is entrusted with reimagining the property, beginning the vision for what would become Wild Rice Retreat.

2020

Construction begins on the retreat's lodging, wellness spaces, and guest amenities.

2021

Wild Rice Retreat opens its doors, welcoming guests with 31 Scandinavian-inspired guest rooms, the Sauna Haus, and the Peace Pod.

2026

A new chapter begins with the expansion of the Sanctuary and the introduction of Retreat Residences, furthering the retreat's mission of rest, renewal, and connection.