The Treehotel: Seven Stairways to Heaven
Sometimes, it is the simplest of things that inspire pure happiness. Like nature. And comfort food. And treehouses. Tucked into lushly-forested Lapland in northern Sweden, the Treehotel's chic, minimalist accommodations may be the very thing to restore youthful smiles of genuine joy.
A divine escape posited amid forest, mountain, and tundra biomes on the edge of the Arctic Circle, guests enjoy a child-like romp through the wilds of Norrbotten County from this clutch of exclusive treehouse digs. Created by the stylish hand of designers like Rintala Eggertsson, Snøhetta, and Tham + Videgård Arkitekter, Treehotel is a collection seriously gorgeous nests set inside fun exteriors. Dedicated to providing the ultimate experience dovetailing nature and serenity, the goal is to ensure guests enjoy a pleasant stay embedded in the unique landscape, warmed by Swedish hospitality.
The Complete Exhale
Imagine an exhilarating ride on horseback under the midnight sun. Or a quiet glide across the frozen tundra pulled by a team of robust sled dogs. Or a fishing day on the quiet beauty of the Lule River. After taking in the landscape, climb up to one of seven structures thoughtfully lodged among the pines and birches.
Magical views of the landscape are framed in every window of each individual treehouse. Clean, bright, contemporary interiors are kitted out with furnishings from Scandinavian design superstars, leaving space for the enormous levels of peace and quiet. Thank Hans Brattrud, Ateljé Lyktan, and the clever design eye of owners, Kent and Britta, for this comfort-without-clutter minimalist luxury.
Built using meticulous, non-intrusive construction methods with local materials that are chemical free, these heavenly stays, 13 to 20 feet above the forest floor, are beautifully lit with LED fixtures using hydroelectric power. Minimal mod cons are balanced by amenities like the tree sauna, steam bath, classic Swedish massage, open air hot tub, and enchanting views of the Northern Lights. Add sea kayaking, white water rafting, zip lining, cycling, skijoring, cultural outings focused on the Sámi people, or a moose safari to the itinerary for the full experience.
A Whimsical List
From the Mirrocube to the Bird's Nest, the treehouses each have unique features and views. Each has WiFi, bottled water, beautifully designed water dispensers over sinks, and an ecofriendly waste system that is every bit as sophisticated, efficient, and effective as traditionally plumbed construction.
The most recent addition is the 7th Room designed by Snøhetta. It is also the largest, accommodating 5 guests in two separate bedrooms. Beneath the treehouse, the surface is covered with an image of the treetops, clouds, and sky above. The exterior walls of charred black pine allow it to virtually disappear into the landscape. Breathtaking views of the Lule River through floor-to-ceiling windows, the Northern Lights through the skylights, and the entire environment from the outdoor sleeping net puts guests next to nature in a fabulous way. The only treehouse with a bathroom equipped with a shower and toilets, the 7th Room is a favorite for many reasons.
The Bird's Nest is an ingenious architectural feat built with twigs and branches on the exterior, blending beautifully into the surroundings. With separate bedrooms, toilets, and living room, it is decidedly more spacious than its external appearance suggests.
The Mirrocube is covered in reflective glass, with one way windows that allow fabulous views for guests with full privacy. The 12-meter long bridge up to the house leads to the 4x4x4 meter structure, with a double bed, toilets, lounge, and rooftop terrace.
The Dragonfly is a versatile space that either works as a room for four, two couples, or a small conference space. With lounge, conference table for 10, and big windows set into a wooden frame covered sheet metal exterior which will weather to a rust-brown, the structure fits right into the forest.
The Blue Cone, which is delightfully bright red, is the simplest and most accessible of the rooms, with four beds, sleeping loft, toilets, and living room. The bridge is ramped to be accessible to disabled guests.
The Cabin, with its long, interesting bridge through the trees, is like a capsule set upon the trunks and branches. Large windows peek out through the forest to a lovely view, and the rooftop terrace invites stargazing.
The UFO, named for its saucer shape and drop down stair, is cast of a strong composite material with a sustainable profile. Porthole windows and astral linens make it an authentic version of 1930s space travel, albeit with WiFi, LED lighting, perhaps indulging a few childhood dreams.
