Vest Family History
Long before Mian’s Yurt Retreat, this place was home to Erslie “Buddy” and Ilene Vest and their six children. Its family roots run right into the house itself. The lumber used to build it came from the sawmill of Ilene’s father, Volly Manning, my father-in-law’s grandfather.
Once a working dairy farm, the property was also home to pigs and chickens, with daily chores and family life woven together. In those early years, the family used an outhouse until an indoor bathroom was added around 1953. Life here meant hard work, home-cooked meals, holiday gatherings, and childhood adventures. In the late 1990s, a pond became part of the landscape—the same pond our yurt guests will now enjoy.
Today, we’re honoring those farming roots and carrying the Vest family’s spirit of hospitality into a new chapter—welcoming guests to make their own memories on land that holds so many of ours.
The Land &
The Retreat
There's something special about this little piece of Floyd County, Virginia.
For generations, this land has been a place where family gathered, animals roamed, and memories were made. Today, we're breathing new life into the farm while preserving the history and natural beauty that make it so special.
At the heart of the property is our fishing pond, surrounded by rolling pastures, peaceful countryside, and the old family barn that has stood through generations of change. Whether it's casting a line, enjoying a morning cup of coffee overlooking the water, or simply slowing down to take in the mountain air, we want our guests to experience the same sense of peace that has made this land so meaningful to our family.
Our vision is simple: preserve the past, celebrate the land, and create a place where new memories can be made.
And that's where the yurts come in.
Meet Copper Cottage
Our First Yurt — Coming Soon
Meet Copper Cottage, the first of four unique retreats taking shape on our family farm in Floyd County, Virginia.
Nestled against the trees and surrounded by peaceful countryside, this spacious 30-foot yurt will blend rustic charm with modern comforts, including a cozy loft, full kitchen, and a beautiful outdoor deck.
Copper Cottage is still a work in progress, but we're excited to share the journey as our vision comes to life!
More Unique Retreats Are on the Way
“Our vision doesn’t stop with Copper Cottage. Three more thoughtfully themed yurts are planned, each offering its own unique way to experience the beauty and charm of our family farm.”
A cozy getaway with a touch of Hokie spirit! Inspired by our family's love of Virginia Tech, this retreat will blend rustic charm with subtle maroon and orange accents.
Hokie Hut
Rooted in our family's musical heritage, Harmony Hollow will celebrate the sounds and stories of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A peaceful retreat where music, nature, and memories come together.
Harmony Hollow
Inspired by our family's fishing pond and farming traditions, Bass Barn will offer a rustic escape for those who love the outdoors, quiet mornings, and casting a line.
Bass Barn
