Adventure and solitude: Minaki Yurt Adventures provide outside-the-box lodgings.

• Author: Ross, Ian
• Position: CONFERENCE & CONVENTION

More than 20 years ago, Nadene and Jordy McBride decided to create a back-to-nature retreat that was a little off-the-beaten path.

Located 45 minutes from Kenora and three hours from Winnipeg, Minaki Yurt Adventures sprang out of the couple's involvement in a not-for-profit group maintaining a trail network in the small northwestern Ontario community.

Inspired by the round tent-like structure used by the nomadic peoples of Mongolia, they ordered away for drawings from the Yurt Foundation of Maine and began erecting their own.

"The whole idea was to put some along the ski trails," said Nadine. "We followed the exterior design to a tee, but we just had different floor plans.

"We wanted it to be a home and a facility that people can use."

Instead of using canvas, they built with wood and over the years have created a i unique set of comfy and cozy lodgings that operate year-round on their two-acre property.

"It's still the traditional form of the round building," said McBride, "The design of the main yurt has a wall that angles out so you don't get the direct sunlight and it stays naturally cool. The ceilings are lower, so it stays a bit warmer and you're not heating a vaulted ceiling."

A land-use permit allows them to arrange activities on Crown land.

The business began as a summer camp for kids, but has since diversified to accommodate a variety of clientele for friends' getaways, sports groups, honeymooners, family reunions, and corporate teambuilding events.

"We have a wedding scheduled for September," said McBride. "It's the fifth one we're doing and we're starting to get a few yoga clinics where groups are coming in."

With five yurts and a tipi in their stable, accommodations range from the secluded and modest two-person Lakeside Yurt with wood-burning stove, sitting area, basic cooking essentials and...