Additional Coverage:
- I stayed in 2 different treehouses on vacation. It was cool, but I wouldn’t stay in this type of accommodation again. (businessinsider.com)
Treehouse Stays: A Romantic Idea, But Not For Me
A Washington state road trip wouldn’t be complete without a stay in a treehouse, right? That’s what I thought, too, when I booked two unique treehouse Airbnbs: a cozy spot overlooking Puget Sound and a luxurious two-story hideaway near Olympia. While the experience was certainly memorable, I learned a few things that have me rethinking future treetop stays.
First, hauling luggage up and down stairs (or ladders!) can be a real workout.
My Puget Sound rental had steep stairs, and lugging a suitcase, cooler, and backpack up and down was a chore. The Olympia treehouse boasted three sets of stairs to the bedroom loft.
While not a deal-breaker, it’s something to consider if you’re not a fan of impromptu stair climbing exercises.
Second, bathroom situations can be less than ideal. My Puget Sound rental required a key and a trip downstairs to the main house—not ideal for middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks.
The Olympia treehouse had an RV-style toilet, which lacked a certain luxurious feel and was honestly a bit confusing to operate. Before booking, definitely check the listing details and make sure you’re comfortable with the bathroom setup.
Finally, you’re at the mercy of Mother Nature. While being nestled in the trees during a storm might sound romantic, it can be downright treacherous if you need to leave and the stairs are icy.
Plus, you’re more exposed to the elements, including wind, rain, and drafts. The owner of the Olympia treehouse even warned me about potential evacuations in high winds!
While my treehouse stays were thankfully uneventful (no wildlife encounters and beautiful weather), I realized they’re more like glorified camping than luxurious getaways. Sleeping in the trees was a unique experience, but the hassles ultimately outweighed the novelty. I’m glad I tried it, but I won’t be making treehouse stays a regular part of my travel plans.