Vancouver Island - If you’ve dreamt of getting away from it all and enjoying a rustic break, you may want to “hang out” among the trees in British Columbia.
This unbe-leaf-able Canadian camp is made up of orbs that appear to float among the branches in the woods near Qualicum Beach, on Vancouver Island. But you don’t have to sacrifice home comforts for your altitude escape. The spheres, which are suspended 6m in the air, are kitted out with beds, heating and even some extra loft space.
The quirky getaway was masterminded by inventor Tom Chudleigh, who dreamt up the Free Spirit Spheres more than 21 years ago. Tom, who is originally from Calgary, in Alberta, Canada, founded the environmentally friendly retreat after years of experimenting with the concept of spheres.
The impressive orbs take up to three years to complete and are painstakingly put together by hand at the Canadian workshop, which is the only manufacturer in the world to create them.
Inside they almost resemble a Hobbit-style home, with entirely curved walls and interiors.
Tom said: “The spheres are designed to fit harmoniously into a forest setting without altering the natural surroundings. They use the living trees as a foundation and reduce the human footprint to near zero.
“We aim to give people a luxurious forest experience they will remember for the rest of their lives. And to use a forest to produce income without degrading it at all.”
The luxurious hanging lodges – named Eve, Eryn and Melody – are designed to go beyond a night roughing it under canvas and are kitted out with plenty of home comforts.
Eve, the original prototype, is the smallest of the trio and has only a single bed, which is described as suitable for “one” or for a “cosy couple”.
Eryn is almost twice the size of its predecessor, boasting a double bed, electric heating and room for a third lodger in the loft space.
And Melody, the newest sphere, can also be rented out as a studio space for artists, musicians and writers looking for the perfect creative space to work in.
Tom added: “Over the past 25 years I have seen interest in treehouses and forest dwellings explode.
“There is an increasing desire among people to reconnect with nature, which is good news for those of us in the business of treehouse resorts these days.
“They provide the perfect location to meditate, recuperate and be at one with nature.” – Daily Mail