It was always my childhood fantasy to camp out in a treehouse, but with the lack of trees in my garden at home, and no friends with treehouses, sadly it was never meant to be. So when Luxury Lodges invited me to stay in their rustic escape, The Treehouse on the Lake, I couldn’t believe my luck.
The Treetop Hideaway
Under the forest canopy, in the heart of the Cornish countryside, the treehouse stands high opposite the Clowance Estates picturesque lake, home to resident swan (and treehouse security) George and his band of ducks.
Sitting around 20 meters off the ground, surrounded by abundant greenery, the treehouse is designed to be cosy but not cramped. With a round open plan living space and two large circular shaped bedrooms overlooking views of the estate, the treehouse presents itself as the perfect hideaway.
Its timber beams lined with rope and chunky wooden furniture lends a sympathetic nod to its natural surroundings. There is a modern bathroom with dual sinks and a large rainfall shower, but if you really want to feel at one with nature, you can take a dip in the open-air roll top bath in a private area on the large balcony which overlooks 97 acres of parkland.
The treehouse is self-catering, ideal for those who want to escape the world for a few days. Everything in the kitchen is high end from the copper De’Longi appliances to the table wear and glasses; there is even a dishwasher so you don’t have to worry about washing up!
Visitors to the estate won’t be short of things to do whilst visiting. For those who love to walk you can admire the stunning grounds and the magnificence Georgian building, Clowance House.
On-site facilities include a restaurant and bar, indoor pool and a spa and when the weather allows it the golf course, tennis courts and croquet lawn. There is something to keep all of the family entertained.
Out and about
Once we’d settled and unpacked after our 8 hour car journey, (every minute worth the wait), we couldn’t think of anything we’d like more than to head on over to St Ives, just a stones throw away from the treehouse, for some Cornish Cream Teas and pasties.
Despite my husband being attacked by a giant seagull, note beware of the gulls when holding a pasty; we enjoyed a long walk along the seafront admiring the beautiful beach and popping in and out of the quaint seaside shops.
Too tired to cook, after a bite to eat, we couldn’t wait to head back to the treehouse, get into our PJ’s and snuggle up with a good book.
Retreat and relax
The next day required a little more relaxation, so we popped over to Clowance’s on site spa. Offering a range of luxury treatments I opted for an indulgent facial. After an hour of pure pampering, I left the spa feeling utterly stress free. Mission accomplished. There is also an indoor swimming pool which is being re-launched this spring, along with the bar and restaurant.
More to see
With so many gorgeous beaches to choose from there are lots of worthwhile places to visit. Just over seven miles away is the historic St Michaels Mount, a castle set back on a small tidal island – so be sure to watch your timings! Incidentally, it is owned by the St Aubyn family, who once owned Clowance House.
After a leisurely stroll around the grounds we stopped by the local supermarket to obtain some ingredients to create a Mexican feast back at the treehouse. It was like being home from home in the kitchen… actually it was much better than ours!
Row your boat
The next morning beaconed a visit to the boathouse where two rowing boats awaited us. With life jackets on, we jumped in, and glided out, accompanied by George the swan.
Armed with an oar in each hand my husband, started to lap the lake, what better way to take it all in, thankfully with no Bridget Jones moments!
Eden Project
We spent our last afternoon at the Eden Project, which is about an hour away from the estate. Often called the eighth wonder of the world, Cornwall’s Eden Project is a series of bubble-like ‘Biomes’ nestled in a crater surrounded by breath-taking scenery.
Built in a disused clay mine, the Eden Project is a mind-blowing gateway into the relationships between plants and people. Fun and family friendly, it is a unique resource for education and knowledge towards a sustainable future, and the food is pretty good there too!
The verdict
It was the treehouse of my childhood dreams set in one of the most beautiful areas of the country. With so much to see and explore, this is the perfect retreat for someone who loves long walks and Cornish coastlines.
Whether you want to cosy up away from the elements in the winter or make the most of the stunning terrace in the summer, the lakeside treehouse is the perfect all year round rustic retreat.
A three-night minimum stay for four people in The Treehouse, starts at £1,050
Visit Luxury Lodge’s website for more info and to book.
Address: The Lakeside Treehouse, Clowance Estate & Country Club, Praze-an-Beeble, Camborne, TR14 0PT
To see more of Rachel’s trip, check out this video here.
