Playing in a treehouse is one of those wistful memories we have of our childhoods. Gleefully frolicking through enchanted forests, curiously exploring the marvels of nature, we’d scale each rung and scramble along the branches. Something about settling upon your timber hideout and looking out over the canopy of leaves was magical. Where it was just us, and the breathing, beating pulse of the woods. A treehouse was where treasures were kept, secrets were shared and the stories we read, mystically jumped from the pages of their books into life.
Our younger selves are tickled with nostalgia as our current stride glides through the space with finesse. In harmony with the tempo of this hideaway’s ambience. Set on two levels of deeply calming sleeping rooms, ethereal open-plan living, dining and reclining spaces, tranquil reading nooks and pacifying lookout spots from floating terraces and shaded decks, this hideaway evokes an earnest affection for the sublime subtleties of time spent in the forest.
With its thick glass doors and windows, solar energy system, wood-burning stoves, birch ply panelling, maritime pine timber flooring harvested from the surrounding Afromontane forest as a means of regenerating its growth – The Tree House is overtly doing its duties on sustainability. Mountain springs run through the indigenous forest, out of the taps, the shower heads and into the basins, the natural eco swimming pool and the Japanese-style Ofuro hot tub.
As a thoughtful gesture to the landscape, the interiors are soothing and intimate with vintage furnishings and treasured collectables, bespoke cabinetry and contemporary artisanal pottery. Its library of South African literature, Japanese graphics, local and international cookbooks and wine guides tucked amongst the layers of comfort and texture. With the ongoing sentiment of sustainability being at the helm, and lauding everything local.
Forest, vineyards, mountain trails and more…
Venturing into the forest for a long weekend or week’s escape yields an entirely unique existence in the Cape. Las Faldas, meaning the foothills or ‘the skirts’ offers magnificent views of the vineyards, the mountains and the ocean in the distance, beckoning exploration. The neighbouring wine estates and their revered restaurants are down some winding roads. Constantia Nek and Silvermine mountain trails that lead to more rivers and waterfalls, craggy cliff walks and valleys are on the doorstep.
The city’s a swift drive away, as are the beaches, the cultural excursions and art jaunts. If you feel obliged. But for those that long to climb that ladder once again, and sit atop your treehouse, you’ll find yourself perfectly satiated in the mystique of the land at Las Faldas. You’ll sip hot brews or bubbles, drifting from garden bench to lounger to sofa to tub. You’ll cook a little then maybe head south to the vines for a tasting. You’ll swim and stretch and meditate, walk and rest and retreat. Collecting treasures, sharing secrets and bringing your treehouse memoir to life.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie
Edited by Michelle Snaddon