Travel’s primary job has always been to suspend reality, if only for a few precious days. This helps us to see our lives and the world from a clearer perspective.
You probably won’t find a better way to do both, than a relaxing vacation in a treehouse in a Norwegian forest!
The chance to see panoramic views of snow-capped mountains without any commercialized interruption is available at Woodnest: two treehouses modeled as floating cabins situated in the woods. In a picturesque town called Odda overlooking the Hardanger fjord, the primordial landscape is yours to immerse in.
Tale Of Two Treehouses
The Aano family built Woodnest amidst a story of true love. Kjartan, from a small island in Norway, is an all-around handyman. He promised himself when he met and fell in love with Sally from Sydney, Australia, that he would build a beautiful treehouse for her, and propose to her from great heights. She said yes and they went onto build a second treehouse to share with world travelers. (1)
Both sit perched on single trees and are linked through steel collars to the trunks. This removes the need for additional structures below. Uniquely, the trees live inside the structures, representing appreciation for nature and outdoors. This minimally invasive technique was crafted to respect the existing land by Helen & Hard Architects, a firm founded in Stavanger. Their areas of expertise include designing spaces to foster social sustainability and creating places for people to come together.
The resulting efforts enable the cabins to float off the ground approximately 15 to 20 feet, leaving the natural forest untouched. The Kjartan family’s vision came to life, ‘(tree)mendously’. (2)
Wisdom Of Wilderness Beauty
The breathtaking scenery of the majestic Norwegian fords can be easily visited from Woodnest’s location. Odda is nestled between two of Norway’s largest national parks, Hardangervidda and Folgefonna. Stunning waterfalls, cliff formations, crystal blue glacier waters, hikes with incredible views and ski resorts providing winter playgrounds await in towns within driving distance.
Even the journey to get to the treehouses seems part of the adventure. When you arrive at the parking lot, a 15-30 minute walk up the path into the woods is before you. The route was established with as little consequence as possible on the environment, with the steeper sections of the hike having wooden and steel stairs in place.
The reward is well worth it as once you reach the treehouses. You can take a hot shower with non-toxic and environmentally sustainable products, bask in the floor heating to keep cozy, enjoy the high speed WiFi and even cook in the kitchenette, or have local food delivered.
The interior is fashioned using the finest black alder wood and the exterior blends into the natural surroundings, resembling the Norwegian “kongla” (pine cone). Local, quality fabrics and hand-crafted chairs incorporate touches of luxury to each treehouse. (1)
Treehouses For Changing Times
The time has come in our society where vacationers are demanding free-time and adventures to have more social commitment, and be respectful of nature. People also want to travel with a greater sense of purpose. At prices starting from 2800nok per night, these 15m2 suspended treehouses are part of changing the way of travel as we know it. Such small, but luxurious abodes can inspire us to see the world differently, while addressing important concerns we may face today as travelers. (1)
