These unique lodgings allow guests to eat, sleep and play high above the forest floor.

Mmmm… the rich smell of cedar planks and the spicy whiff of pine needles. We always loved the excitement and adventure associated with tree houses when we were kids, so why not enjoy those same feelings again during your 2011 summer travels? Don’t worry — you won’t be missing electric lights or a hot shower in these luxurious tree top accommodations.

Located 30 minutes east of Seattle in the Snoqualmie Valley is Treehouse Point. Though this getaway is located in the heart of the great outdoors, guests are still provided with the comforting amenities of running water and electricity. The location offers a range of treehouse lodgings, from an open-air gazebo to the luxurious ‘Temple of the Blue Moon’ suite.

All accommodations are tastefully decorated, with original art, vintage furnishings and handmade beds. In addition to the lodgings, Treehouse Point also features house concerts that show off the talents of local singer/songwriters and nationally-renowned artists alike. Treehouse construction workshops are offered as well, so groups can learn how to build their own open-air retreat. Contact them for rates at info@treehousepoint.com.

Treehouse Point | 6922 Preston-Fall City Rd SE, Issaquah | (425) 441-8087

 

Head to Vancouver Island in British Columbia for a truly refreshing experience. Free Spirit Spheres offers the perfect location and lodgings for meditation, photography, writing or environmental research — among other leisurely pursuits.

According to founder Tom Chudleigh, the purpose of the spheres is “to enable people to move into the rainforest and have an experience of it, [while keeping] the footprint as light as humanly possible. It is also a way to celebrate the beauty and magic that is there in a mature forest.”

Each sphere has unique decor and features electricity and speakers as added amenities to the sleeping area, sitting room and tiny kitchenette. Nightly rates range from $135 to $205 + tax, with discounts for multiple nights and weekly stays. The spheres can sleep up to three people, with clean bedding and towels provided for guests. The property has full restrooms and community area (including sauna) across the pond from the spheres, as well as an eco-friendly composting outhouse located below.

Free Spirit Spheres | 420 Horne Lake Road, Qualicum Beach, BC | (250) 757-9445

Solitude is definitely a perk at the Cedar Creek Treehouse. Go “Swiss Family Robinson” with some friends and stay in a 200-year old red cedar tree — in a cabin that’s 50 feet above of the ground! You’ll have more amenities than the Robinsons did, however, in this solar-powered lodging, such as running water, electric lights, gas stove and icebox in the kitchen area, utensils, dishes, and even propane heating for cold weather.

Skylights and windows abound for amazing views and nature-gazing options — there’s also an observatory connected to the cabin by a bridge that is 100 feet up with a 360 degree view of the surrounding Nisqually Valley and Mount Rainier. A stay in the treehouse is $300 per night for two adults and a minimum reservation of two nights is required. Bring a couple of friends along — the rate is $50 per night for each additional guest (the cabin can sleep a maximum of five people).

Cedar Creek Treehouse | (360) 569-2991