You know that feeling when a game finally lets you breathe, but the air feels heavy? That’s Freya’s home. Sanctuary Grove God of War Ragnarok isn't just a map marker; it’s a gut punch for anyone who actually followed the 2018 journey.
It’s quiet. Too quiet.
Most people remember Chaurli, the massive timber-colored tortoise that serves as Freya’s house. In the first game, he was a symbol of magic and safety. In Ragnarok, he’s a reminder of a long, lonely exile. When you finally get back there—and it takes a while, trust me—the vibe has shifted completely. It’s no longer just a witch’s hut. It’s a graveyard of memories.
How to Actually Get Back to Sanctuary Grove
Honestly, the biggest mistake players make is trying to find this place too early. You can’t just walk there. You can’t even fly there for most of the game.
During the main "Path" of the story, you’ll see the Grove in cutscenes or during specific scripted moments with Freya, but the game basically locks the door behind you. You want to explore it freely? You have to finish the game. Yeah, it’s post-game content.
Once the credits roll and you’re in the "Beyond Ragnarok" phase, head over to Sindri’s House. Talk to Ratatoskr—the squirrel, obviously. He’s got these Yggdrasil Seeds. He’ll give you a pouch of "undiscovered" seeds that unlock hidden Mystic Gateways across the realms.
One of those seeds is for Midgard.
When you look at your map of Midgard after talking to him, you’ll see a grayed-out gateway labeled "Sanctuary Grove." Pop that seed in, and you’re back. It’s that simple, yet so many people spend hours scouring the Lake of Nine looking for a physical path that doesn't exist anymore because of the Fimbulwinter snow.
Chaurli and the Heartbreak of Fimbulwinter
When you step out of that portal, the first thing you’ll notice is Chaurli. He’s freezing. He’s not moving much.
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It sucks.
In the 2018 game, he was surrounded by lush greens and vibrant flowers. Now, he’s hunkered down against the cold of Fimbulwinter. Kratos and Freya have a short, poignant interaction here. If you bring Mimir—and why wouldn’t you?—he adds that extra layer of "world-weary" commentary that makes the scene feel real.
There is a specific flower here, the Mirkweed. You need it.
If you’re a completionist, you’re likely here for the "Nine Realms in Bloom" favor. This is where you find the Midgardian flower. It’s just sitting there, a small splash of color in a world that’s turned white and gray. It’s tucked away on the side of the house, easy to miss if you’re just staring at the turtle.
Why This Place Matters for Freya’s Arc
Freya is arguably the best-written character in the sequel.
Her relationship with Sanctuary Grove is complicated. It was her prison for centuries because of Odin’s curse. She couldn't leave Midgard. She couldn't even defend herself against someone with lethal intent.
Coming back here as a free woman, someone who has reclaimed her Valkyrie wings and her warrior spirit, is a massive moment. It’s a "full circle" thing. You’re standing in the place where she once tried to kill Kratos, and now she’s standing beside him as an ally. A friend. Maybe more? The community debates that one constantly, but the respect between them is undeniable here.
The Grove is small. You can walk across the whole thing in thirty seconds.
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But it’s dense with lore. You’ll find some scrolls and minor loot, but the real value is the dialogue. Santa Monica Studio (the developers) put a lot of work into these "quiet" moments. If you rush through Sanctuary Grove just to get the collectible and leave, you’re missing the point of the narrative design.
The Hidden Details in the Dirt
Look at the garden. It’s dead.
Freya was the goddess of fertility and growth, and seeing her home in shambles represents what Odin took from her. But as you explore with her in the post-game, there's this sense that things can be rebuilt.
- The Mirkweed: As mentioned, it's essential for the "Nine Realms in Bloom" trophy.
- The Lore Marker: There’s a bit of reading to do if you care about the history of the Vanir in Midgard.
- The Interaction: Press 'Circle' near Chaurli. Just do it. Kratos showing empathy to a giant tortoise is the character development we paid for.
Addressing the "Missing" Content Rumors
For a while, there were rumors on Reddit and game forums that there was a secret boss in Sanctuary Grove. There isn't.
Don't waste your time hitting the trees or trying to find a hidden cave. The Grove is a narrative reward, not a combat arena. The "boss" here is your own emotions, man. Dealing with the fallout of the war and seeing the quiet remnants of the life Freya used to have is the whole draw.
I’ve seen people complain that it’s "empty."
It’s supposed to be.
Ragnarok is a loud, chaotic game with gods exploding and dragons screaming. Sanctuary Grove is the antidote to that. It’s the "aftermath."
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Practical Steps for Your Visit
If you're heading there now, do these things in order to make it worth the trip:
- Talk to Ratatoskr first. You literally cannot get there without the seed. If he isn't giving it to you, make sure you've finished the main story.
- Bring Freya. You can technically go there with other companions in different contexts, but the dialogue is specifically tailored for her and Kratos.
- Find the Mirkweed. It’s near the front of Chaurli, slightly to the right if you’re facing him. This is the only way to tick Midgard off your list for the floral trophy.
- Wait for the dialogue to finish. Don't just grab the flower and fast-travel out. Let the characters speak. There are lines about the state of the world that only trigger after a minute of standing still.
The Reality of Post-Game Exploration
By the time you get to the Grove, you’ve probably upgraded the Leviathan Axe and the Blades of Chaos to near-max levels. You’ve probably killed a few Berserkers.
The Grove feels tiny in comparison to the Vanaheim Crater or the sprawling snowy wastes of the Lake of Nine. But that's the beauty of it. It’s an intimate space. In game design, we call this a "breather." It anchors the world.
It’s also one of the few places in the game that feels truly "safe." No raiders, no nightmares, no Hel-walkers. Just the wind and the sound of a giant turtle breathing.
What You Need to Know Before You Leave
Once you've cleared the "Nine Realms in Bloom" requirement here, you’re basically done with the mechanical part of the area. But keep an eye on the sky. The lighting in Sanctuary Grove is unique compared to the rest of Midgard. It has this permanent sunset/golden hour vibe that makes for incredible Photo Mode shots.
If you're looking for that 100% completion (the Platinum trophy), this is a mandatory stop. If you're just here for the story, it’s a mandatory stop for your heart.
Don't overthink the puzzles—there aren't any. Just walk, listen, and pick the flower. It’s the most peaceful "task" Kratos has ever been given.
To finish your 100% run, ensure you’ve checked your map for any remaining "Undiscovered" items in Midgard. Sanctuary Grove is often the last piece of the puzzle for players who didn't realize the Gateway was unlockable through Ratatoskr. Once you've grabbed the Mirkweed and listened to the dialogue, your journey in this specific corner of the realms is complete. Head back to the Mystic Gateway and set your sights on the remaining flowers in Niflheim or Jotunheim to wrap up the collection.