Treehouse hideaway

IF you’re looking for a weekend hideaway far from traffic, shopping malls and cellphone reception, I’ve got just the thing: the whimsical Sycamore Avenue Treehouses on the Midlands Meander in KwaZulu-Natal.

About 18 years ago, original owners and artists Bruce and Gloria Atwood created these impressive structures. In 2009, Gloria’s nephew, Gary Els, and his daughters took over ownership to continue the unique concept. ‘If we can’t fly with birds, we can at least nest with them,’ says Candice Els.

There are six themed treehouses that each boast a spa bath, private balcony and cosy fireplaces. The Pegasus treehouse was my home for a night. It has beautiful views of the Drakensberg – I really felt at one with nature, nestled up in the trees. They serve a full English breakfast and a three-course dinner in the evenings.

Gary plans to expand some in the future. The next treehouse, Neptune, already boasts a wooden door with the god of the ocean carved on it.