Introduction 

Located in the serene woods of Harads in northern Sweden, the Treehotel is a one-of-a-kind destination that combines innovative design with the tranquillity of nature. Nestled among the towering pines, this hotel offers guests an opportunity to disconnect from the chaos of everyday life and reconnect with the natural world. The Treehotel is not just a place to stay; it is an experience that immerses visitors in the beauty of the Swedish wilderness while providing the comfort and luxury of modern accommodations. In this article, we will explore the history, architecture, and unique features of the Tree Hotel, as well as the activities and experiences that make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking something genuinely extraordinary.

The Concept of Treehotel

The Treehotel was conceived by Kent and Britta Lindvall, who sought to create a place that would allow people to experience nature in a new and exciting way. The idea was to build treehouses that blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment while offering a high-end hotel’s amenities. The couple was inspired by the Swedish documentary film “The Tree Lover,” which tells the story of three men who leave the city to build a treehouse in the forest. This film sparked the idea of creating a hotel that would allow guests to experience the beauty and tranquillity of the forest from a unique perspective.

The Architecture and Design

The architecture of the Tree Hotel is what truly sets it apart from other hotels. Each treehouse is designed by a different Scandinavian architect, resulting in a collection of unique and innovative structures. The treehouses are suspended high above the ground, offering stunning views of the surrounding forest and the Lule River. The designs range from the minimalist “Mirrorcube,” which reflects the forest around it, to the whimsical “Bird’s Nest,” which looks like a giant bird’s nest perched in the trees. Other treehouses include “The UFO,” a futuristic design that resembles a spaceship, and “The Cabin,” a sleek, modern structure with panoramic views.

The design of each treehouse is intended to create a sense of harmony with nature. The architects used sustainable materials and construction methods to minimize the hotel’s environmental impact. The treehouses are supported by strong yet flexible frameworks that allow the trees to continue growing naturally. Inside, the interiors are designed to be both luxurious and cosy, with high-quality furnishings, large windows, and modern amenities such as Wi-Fi and underfloor heating.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness

One of the core principles of the Treehotel is sustainability. The hotel was built with the environment in mind, using eco-friendly materials and construction techniques. The treehouses are insulated to retain heat, and energy-efficient lighting and heating systems are used throughout. The hotel also uses a hydroelectric power system, which generates electricity from the nearby Lule River, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.

The Tree Hotel’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its construction. The hotel works closely with local communities and businesses to promote eco-friendly practices and support the local economy. The food served at the hotel is locally sourced, and guests are encouraged to participate in activities with minimal environmental impact, such as hiking, birdwatching, and dog sledging.

The Treehouses: A Closer Look

Each of the seven treehouses at the Treehotel offers a unique experience. Here’s a closer look at some of the most iconic treehouses:

The Mirrorcube

The Mirrorcube is the most famous of all the treehouses. Its exterior is covered in reflective glass, which mirrors the surrounding forest and creates the illusion that the treehouse is almost invisible. The interior is minimalist and modern, with a double bed, a lounge area, and a bathroom. Large windows provide panoramic views of the forest, and a rooftop terrace is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

The Bird’s Nest

The Bird’s Nest is a whimsical treehouse resembling a giant bird’s nest perched high in the trees. The exterior is covered in a network of twigs and branches, giving it a natural, organic appearance. Inside, the treehouse is surprisingly spacious, with room for a family of four. The interior is warm and cozy, with wood-paneled walls, comfortable beds, and a small sitting area. A ladder leads up to the entrance, adding to the feeling of being in a real bird’s nest.

The UFO

The UFO is a futuristic treehouse that resembles a spaceship. Its sleek, metallic exterior starkly contrasts the natural surroundings, making it one of the most eye-catching treehouses at the hotel. Inside, the UFO is designed to look like the interior of a spaceship, with circular windows, metal finishes, and a round bed. The treehouse is accessible via a retractable staircase, which adds to the sense of adventure.

The Cabin

The Cabin is a sleek, modern treehouse with stunning views of the Lule River. Its minimalist design has clean lines and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. The treehouse has contemporary furniture and high-quality materials, creating a luxurious yet comfortable atmosphere. The Lodge is ideal for couples searching for a heartfelt escape.

The Blue Cone

The Blue Cone is one of the more traditional treehouses at the Tree Hotel. It is built on a series of stilts rather than being suspended from the trees, making it one of the more accessible treehouses. The exterior is painted a bright blue, which stands out against the green of the forest. Inside, the treehouse is simple but comfortable, with a double bed, a sitting area, and a bathroom. The Blue Cone is ideal for a more traditional treehouse experience.

Experiences and Activities at Treehotel

The Treehotel offers a range of activities and experiences that allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the Swedish wilderness’s beauty. 

Northern Lights Viewing

One of the highlights of staying at the Tree Hotel is seeing the Northern Lights. Harads is located in the Arctic Circle, making it one of the best places in the world to view this natural phenomenon. The hotel offers guided tours and Northern Lights packages, which include transportation to the best viewing spots, warm clothing, and hot drinks. Guests can also watch the Northern Lights from the comfort of their treehouse, with many of the treehouses offering panoramic night sky views.

Hiking and Nature Walks

The forests surrounding the Treehotel are a hiker’s paradise, with miles of trails winding through the trees and along the Lule River. The hotel offers guided nature walks, where guests can learn about the area’s local flora, fauna, and history. For those looking for a more challenging hike, longer trails lead to stunning viewpoints and hidden lakes.

Dog Sledding

Dog sledding is popular at the Tree Hotel, especially in winter when the landscape is covered in snow. Guests can take a thrilling ride through the forest on a traditional dog sledge pulled by a team of enthusiastic huskies. The hotel offers both short and long dog sledging excursions, with the option to include a stop for a traditional Swedish fika (coffee and cake) in the wilderness.

Ice Fishing

Ice fishing is another popular winter activity at the Tree Hotel. Guests can try catching fish through the ice on one of the many frozen lakes in the area. The hotel provides all the necessary equipment and a guide to teach guests the basics of ice fishing. Afterward, guests can warm up by a campfire and enjoy their catch cooked over an open flame.

Sauna and Hot Tub

The Tree Hotel offers a traditional Swedish sauna and hot tub for relaxing and unwinding. The sauna is located on the ground, surrounded by the forest, and is the perfect place to warm up after a day of outdoor activities. The hot tub is on a deck overlooking the Lule River, offering stunning views while you soak in the warm water. The hotel also provides a range of spa treatments, including massages and facials, to help guests fully relax and rejuvenate.

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The Surrounding Area: Harads and Beyond

While the Treehotel is a destination, the surrounding area of Harads and northern Sweden offers plenty of attractions and activities for visitors to explore.

Harads Village

The village of Harads is a small, picturesque community located just a short drive from the Tree Hotel. It is home to several traditional Swedish houses, as well as a few shops and restaurants. Visitors can stroll through the village, visit the local church, or stop by the Harads General Store to pick up some Swedish souvenirs.

The Lule River

The Lule River is one of the main attractions in the area, offering a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. In the summer, guests can go canoeing or kayaking on the river or take a boat tour to explore the surrounding wilderness. In the winter, the river freezes, creating the perfect conditions for ice skating or snowmobiling.

Jokkmokk

Jokkmokk is about an hour’s drive from the Tree Hotel and is known for its rich cultural heritage. Jokkmokk is the center of the Sami culture in Sweden, and visitors can learn about the history and traditions of the Sami people at the Ájtte Museum. The town is also home to the Jokkmokk Winter Market, an annual event held for over 400 years. The market celebrates Sami culture and features traditional crafts, food, and performances.

The Arctic Circle

Harads is located just south of the Arctic Circle, and visitors to the Treehotel can easily take a day trip to cross it. Several tours take visitors to the Arctic Circle, where they can learn about the region’s unique climate and geography. In the winter, visitors can also experience the Polar Night, when the sun does not rise above the horizon for several weeks.

The Midnight Sun

In the summer months, visitors to the Treehotel can experience the Midnight Sun, a natural phenomenon where the sun remains visible for 24 hours a day. The Midnight Sun is a truly unique experience, and many visitors stay up late to watch the sun dip low on the horizon before rising again without ever fully setting.

Dining at Treehotel

The dining experience at the Tree Hotel is as unique as the treehouses themselves. The hotel’s restaurant, Britta’s Pensionat, is in a traditional Swedish house dating back to the 1930s. The restaurant serves a menu of traditional Swedish dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The food is simple but delicious, focusing on fresh, seasonal produce.

Guests can enjoy their meals in the cozy dining room, decorated with vintage furniture and Swedish antiques. In the summer, meals can also be enjoyed on the outdoor terrace overlooking the forest. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a traditional Swedish fika in the afternoon.

For a truly unique dining experience, the Treehotel also offers private dining in one of the treehouses. Guests can enjoy a gourmet meal prepared by the hotel’s chef while enjoying the stunning views from their treehouse. It is a popular option for special occasions, such as anniversaries or birthdays.

Practical Information for Visitors

If you’re planning a trip to the Treehotel, here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your visit:

How to Get There

The Treehotel is located in Harads, a small village in northern Sweden. The nearest airport is Luleå Airport, about an hour and a half drive from the hotel. The hotel offers transfers from the airport to Boden’s nearby train station. The hotel is about a 10-hour drive from Stockholm if you’re driving.

When to Visit

The Treehotel is open year-round, and each season offers a different experience. In the winter, the landscape is covered in snow, creating a magical winter wonderland. It is the best time to see the Northern Lights and enjoy winter activities such as dog sledging and ice fishing. The days are long in the summer, and the forest is alive with wildlife. It is the best time for hiking, canoeing, and experiencing the Midnight Sun.

Booking Your Stay

The Treehotel is a popular destination, so booking your stay well in advance is a good idea, especially if you plan to visit during peak season. The hotel offers a range of packages, including Northern Lights viewing, dog sledging, and private dining experiences. You can book directly through the Treehotel’s website or a travel agent.

Additional Information

Check-In and Check-Out: Check-in is usually around 3:00 PM, and check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Wi-Fi: While the treehouses offer a chance to disconnect, most are equipped with Wi-Fi for those who need it.

Children: The Treehotel is family-friendly, with some treehouses designed to accommodate families.

Pets: Pets are not allowed at the Tree Hotel.

Accessibility: The Blue Cone and The Cabin are the most accessible treehouses, with easier access than others.

Conclusion

The Treehotel in Sweden is more than just a hotel; it’s an experience that allows guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Swedish wilderness while enjoying the comfort and luxury of modern accommodations. With its innovative architecture, commitment to sustainability, and unique activities, the Tree Hotel offers a relaxing and inspiring one-of-a-kind getaway. Whether you’re looking to see the Northern Lights, hike through pristine forests, or unwind in a treehouse high above the ground, the Treehotel is a destination that should be on every traveller’s bucket list.

The Treehotel is a testament to the power of innovative design and a deep connection with nature. It offers a place where guests can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and find peace and tranquillity in the heart of the Swedish wilderness. If you want a unique and unforgettable travel experience, the Treehotel in Sweden is the perfect destination.