Stepping out onto the wooden balcony, a panoramic Drakensberg vista stretched out before me. Cathkin Peak was to the left and a shimmering lake reflecting the setting sun was below. The last of the day’s light reflected off the windows, bathing my hidden escape in an orange glow. I took a moment to drink in the Champagne-coloured landscape that had given the valley its name. I simply couldn’t believe my luck at finding this hidden house in the trees.
About the treehouse
Bahati Tree Lodge, my rare accommodation find in the Central Drakensberg, is set on the property of Treks, Trips and Trails. Owner run my husband and wife team, Chris and Magda, this unassuming property offers just two cottages. One being the treehouse that looks like something out of an episode of Discovery Channel’s Treehouse Masters.
We had just spent an epic, adventurous day scootouring the mountainside, discovering local villages on a quad bike tour and indulging in some of the best cuisine the valley has to offer with Chris and Magda. The two run the local info centre and their passion for this little piece of paradise is somewhat infectious. After the jam-packed day of adventure and upon seeing that house in the trees, I understood why they had recommended I spend an extra night or two!
Luxury living at its best
Set on stilts off the ground, the treehouse is unlike any other accommodation on offer in South Africa. It is perfect for romantic getaways, as the guestbook will attest – brimming to its edges with tales of proposals and anniversary weekends away.
Upon seeing the Jacuzzi bath I simply had to indulge (and coming from drought-riddled Cape Town who could blame me). Lying there surrounded by wood I looked out the window to only see trees. There in front of me, swaying in the middle of the room itself, was a glass-encased tower of bark and beauty. And while I discovered heaven, my husband enjoyed a different view from the shower in the spare room downstairs with wall to floor glass overlooking the dam.
Feeling clean and relaxed, an outdoor boma provided the perfect place to watch the stars. A thousand twinkling dots took over the night sky, leaving us city folk dumbstruck. And as we nestled fireside at the end of a great meal, it was safe to say that somewhere in Africa a little piece of heaven exists!