Registration Open
Apr 18–19
Intro to Natural Building
Soil testing, cob, and plaster basics — the whole earthen palette in one immersive weekend.
$300 · 2 days
A village of hand-built cabins where you can gather, rest, and learn to build with the earth — deep in the Appalachian woods.
We’re earth builders in Appalachia. Step into cabins where every detail tells a story: indoor hammocks, outdoor showers under the stars, and walls shaped by hand from clay, straw, and timber. Come stay a weekend, rent the whole village for your people, or roll up your sleeves and learn to build it yourself.
📖 Read the Songbird GuidebookHowever you arrive — to rest, to celebrate, or to build — the mountain meets you where you are.
Hands-on weekends in cob, cordwood, earthen & lime plaster, and natural finishes. No experience needed — just curiosity and a willingness to get muddy.
See Workshops →
Rent the entire retreat for weddings, family reunions, school groups, and team retreats. Your own private mountain village.
Plan Your Event →
Five hand-built cabins, each with its own style. Book one, or rent the whole property.
Meet the Cabins →Soil testing, cob, and plaster basics — the whole earthen palette in one immersive weekend.
Build with stacked wood & mortar — beautiful, insulating walls made from the forest itself.
Mix and trowel natural plasters — leave knowing how to give any wall a warm, breathable skin.
Talking Water is made for gathering. Book the entire property — cabins, pavilion, trails, and firepits — and make the mountain yours for the weekend.
Five hand-built cabins, each with its own character. Find your favorite and check availability.
Round out your retreat with Talking Water merch and s’mores kits, pick up farm-fresh eggs, or gear up for adventure — kayak and mountain-bike rentals, guided tours, and miles of hiking right out your door.
Enhance Your Stay
New workshop dates, open weekends & seasonal happenings on the bluff — straight to your inbox.
