10 Unique Tree-house Stays around the Globe
This is a writing sample from Scripted writer Kellie Byrnes
No longer are trees just the domain of Tarzan. As more and more people find they need to unwind from life's stresses, the novelty and retreat of a tree-house hotel stay is increasing in popularity. Travellers around the globe are regularly choosing to spend time in comfortable tree-based lodgings where they can switch off, recharge and get back to nature. There are many purpose-built tree-house accommodation offerings around the world, from Asia and Australia to North America, Europe and Africa. So, no matter where you want to holiday, you're sure to find a unique spot in the trees. Read on for a countdown of ten cool stays you can try out in 2014. 10. TreeHouse Point, United States: from $150 per night If you feel inspired to build your very own tree-house, then make sure you visit TreeHouse Point, just 30 minutes from Seattle in the United States. Apart from welcoming visitors with a variety of overnight tree-house lodging, the property is also home to the Nelson Treehouse and Supply, a specialty tree-house building and design team. Guests at TreeHouse Point can enjoy the peaceful setting of the accommodation, which is located in a forest beside the Raging River. The tree house can be accessed via a suspension bridge or spiral tree-wrapping staircase. The venue provides private yoga and massage sessions, large grounds to explore and plenty of spots to sit around a relaxing fire. 9. Bangkok Tree House, Thailand: from $122 per night If you're familiar with Bangkok, then you will probably be surprised to find out that there is actually a green haven located by the river in the busy city. Visitors to Bangkok's first bed in a tree enjoy beautiful views of the Chao Phraya River and the surrounding forests, all from up in their secluded nests. The tree houses are located in the heart of Bangkok's "green lung" yet, still only 10km from Sukhumvit Road. The accommodations at Bangkok Tree House feature all the mod-cons, such as private outdoor lounging areas; a rooftop terrace; rain shower; organic toiletries; free Wi-Fi, cell-phone and bicycle hire; and an assortment of included foodie treats such as ice cream and an a la carte breakfast. Apart from your body and soul, your conscience will also appreciate a stay at the Tree House – the hotel has a policy of removing 2.2lbs of trash from the river for every booking. 8. Aqua Wellness Resort, Nicaragua: from $145 per night Another top eco-retreat, this time in Nicaragua, the Aqua Wellness Resort is exactly the type of accommodation you need if you feel overworked and in desperate need of some R & R. The Resort is located on a private, white sandy beach on the country's Pacific Coast and almost hidden from view by the treetops. Guests at Aqua stay in secluded villas and get to experience beachside treetop living. Each suite is elevated to maximise the views and experience the rainforest. The open-plan villas have been constructed from sustainable hardwoods and then furnished by local artisans. Additionally, they feature wraparound decks and infinity plunge pools. The resort further enhances health and well-being by providing locally-sourced organic cuisine, luxurious spa facilities, open-air yoga classes and many outdoor eco-activities. 7. Daintree EcoLodge & Spa, Australia: from $295 per night The winner of the World's Leading Eco Resort and Spa award at the 19th World Travel Awards in 2012, Daintree EcoLodge & Spa is considered one of the top luxury eco-lodges in Australia. Located in a rainforest setting, just 90 minutes' drive north of Cairns, the lodge provides the perfect base to explore the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree River, Cape Tribulation and the Daintree Rainforest. Each of the 15 tranquil, tree-house style suites is nestled within the world's oldest living rainforest. Creature comforts include Jacuzzis; bathrobes and slippers; canopy beds; house-made bathroom amenities; hand-crafted wooden furnishings and traditional Aboriginal artworks. Guests can also enjoy alfresco spa treatments, meals at the on-site restaurant and Aboriginal-guided walks around the 30-acre property. 6. Baumhaus at Meisters Hotel Irma, Italy: from $260 per night The tree-house suite at Meisters Hotel Irma in Merano, called "Baumhaus", is privately located at a 60-metre walk from the main building of the hotel. It literally sits suspended amidst a garden of pine trees. The suite features a massive terrace on which to relax, take in the views or indulge in delicacies from the local South Tyrol region. Guests are even welcome to move their bed outside if they want to sleep under the stars and enjoy an open-air experience. Baumhaus has a freestanding bath tub with a view and quality wooden furnishings; while the property also prides itself on being a complete spa and wellness destination with plenty of pampering opportunities, outdoor activities and gourmet food. 5. Chateaux dans les Arbres, France: from $310 per night Francophiles are sure to love the fanciful tree houses that have been modeled on an old French chateau at the Chateaux dans les Arbres in lower Dordogne, nine miles west of Montpazier. With a name meaning, "Castles in the Trees" you'll soon feel like royalty in these luxurious wood houses. Each of the majestic abodes feature fairytale turrets; stunning interiors with antique decorative pieces; views of the French countryside; dressing gowns; and a hot tub on the terrace. The hotel is set within 25 acres of forest and meadows, so you'll soon clear out the cobwebs with a stroll around the grounds – if you can be bothered leaving your own little castle, that is. Chateaux dans les Arbres also provides guests with complimentary breakfast that's hoisted up by a pulley to your tree-house.
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