Five treehouse retreats to explore this weekend
If you’re looking to drive away for the weekend, the trusty car or SUV can take you almost anywhere.But if you want to stay among the treetops you’ll have to lock it up then climb a few extra steps before settling in for a day or two of communing with nature. Australia’s got a number of tree house accommodation options designed by canny architects and environmentalists, and here are five of our favourites.
The Den of the Treehouse, The Pocket, NSW
The Den is a cosy retreat nestled in rainforest on top of a mountain, inland from the bustle of Byron Bay. The views are sensational: you look through the trees to the sea beyond and have the opportunity to explore rustic gardens in a bushland setting. The property is remote enough that a 4WD transfer is needed up the steep track, but once ensconced it’s all about nature, rejuvenation, tranquillity and enjoying the views.
Tree Top Eco Retreat, Sunshine Beach, Queensland
You aren’t far from Noosa at Eco Retreat but being perched high above the trees, within earshot of the crashing surf, you could be a world away. This quirky retreat is at the back of the owners’ house and is basically a bedroom on stilts that has a jungle feel to it and beautiful views. Underneath is a private deck and indoor-outdoor bathroom, right next to the yoga room where guests are welcome to participate in classes.
Skyhouse Retreat, Denmark, Western Australia
The far south-west of WA is famous for its tall timber and at Skyhouse you’re living right among the treetops. This visually stunning retreat has two bedrooms and is perched high enough that any passing birdlife is at eye-level, not high above. It is also spacious with bedrooms, lounge, deck and kitchen scattered on different levels and if you’re into yoga, the owner is an instructor. Skyhouse is about a five hour drive from Perth, with the optional enticement of a stopover at Margaret River.
Treetop Stay, Sassafras, Victoria
The Dandenongs are a favourite escape from Melbourne being both close (about an hour’s drive) and wonderfully peaceful. The hills and valleys are also famous for their towering mountain ash and tree ferns, which can be seen at eye level from the deck, bedrooms or actually anywhere at Treetop Stay. This cosy, two-bedroom escape was built around the trees so the parrots are your neighbours, the wind through the branches is the soundtrack and the views are easy on the eye. It’s also just a few minutes’ walk from Sassafras village with its charming shops and eateries.
The Treehouse, McLaren Vale, South Australia
Yes, this tree house is definitely perched among a stand of eucalypts that offer their fragrance and leafy views. But as an added bonus, it’s also smack bang in the middle of a vineyard producing some of the wines for which McLaren Vale is famous. You’re only 40 minutes or so out of Adelaide but the peacefulness of the countryside is enveloping. Enjoy it all from the king bedroom, the light-filled kitchen or comfy lounge area with its wood-fired combustion heater – perhaps with a glass of the local shiraz.
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