Wonderful Glamping Experience
This treehouse is truly a hidden gem. Our hosts, Arthur and Olga, were kind and communicative, and we could tell that they put so much love and effort into creating this beautiful glamping experience. As soon as we arrived, we were welcomed by the family who showed us around the large property and gave us the freedom to explore.
Indoors - As pictured, the treehouse is insulated and fully furnished with kitchenware, linens, a cooler, and a wood stove (brush up on your knowledge on how to start a fire indoors). The pullout couches can sleep up to 4 people, and please do not expect premium mattresses as this is a glamping experience. We slept in our own sleeping bags but the linens provided would suffice. If you need to use the cooler, it is full of reusable ice packs but send the host a note to freeze the packs beforehand. There is a handwashing station and a 5-gallon jug for refills, and due to the off-grid nature of the treehouse, you’ll need to dump the water bowl outside every once in a while. At night, there are dim remote-controlled lights on the ceiling and we also used our lantern.
Outdoors - On the patio, there is a couch for lounging while waiting for your food to cook on the propane bbq. You’ll also have a great view of the marsh, where you can take a canoe out to explore (the canoe, lifejackets, and three paddles are included. Two paddles are adult-sized and one is child-sized). We met a small garter snake in the bushes, and even though they are harmless, I would recommend wearing shoes outside because you never know what you may encounter. The compost toilet was just steps away from the treehouse entrance so it was very convenient; just ensure you have a headlamp at night. For showering with the outdoor rainwater shower, I would recommend wearing a swimsuit. The fire pit is a great place to relax after a day of adventuring - you can sit there for a while into the night and stargaze.
Points of Interest for trip planning - Carps Custom Creamery nearby was a cherry on top! Arthur also suggested Blakeney Rapids (waterfalls and trails), Pakenham Bridge (swimming and sitting in the falls), Chesire Cat Pub (great food), and Stans’ Putt Putt Land, all of which are local hidden gems.
Altogether, this treehouse was the perfect getaway that’s a convenient distance from the city. During Covid, I felt at ease as the treehouse was very clean and the sanitation stations provided were sufficient. There is no wifi but cellphone service is available so you won’t be completely off-grid. I appreciated all the thoughtful touches around the charming treehouse. I would definitely return and recommend Arthur’s property to anyone who is down for an adventure!