Envision a tranquil haven nestled high in the trees, where the gentle rustle of leaves and the melodious chirping of birds form the perfect backdrop for relaxation. In our fast-paced world, disconnecting and reconnecting with nature has never been more crucial. A treehouse escape offers a distinctive retreat, beckoning you to embrace the simplicity of life above ground.

It’s not just an adventure; it’s an opportunity to nourish your inner child, rediscover the beauty of nature, and find solace in the heights. Unlike most others, this is a wellness experience with some unique bonuses. Join me as I take you to one of my favorite treehouses in Vermont, where I delve into how spending time in a treehouse rejuvenates the spirit and provides the ultimate retreat for body and mind, fostering a deep personal connection with nature.

Moose Meadow Lodge and Treehouse in Duxbury, Vermont

As I entered the driveway leading to the Moose Meadow Lodge and Treehouse, I knew I was in for a treat. Nestled in the mountains of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, the lodge and tree house offer visitors a chance to slow down and absorb nature’s healing power.

From the moment I arrived, Greg and Willie, the owners of this gorgeous mountain gem, warmly greeted me with a hug and a big smile. Their genuine warmth and hospitality made me feel instantly at home. As I walked up the steps to the lodge for check-in, I couldn’t help but notice the fresh mountain air and views to die for. Their warm welcome and the stunning surroundings immediately put me at ease and set the tone for a truly memorable stay.

Every detail of the lodge was carefully curated to evoke a sense of peace and serenity. Greg explained each detail and gave me a quick tour of the lodge. He noted that the wood and stone used to create a mountain lodge ambiance were hand-selected and harvested from their 86-acre property. Greg is also a hunter, so many of his trophies grace the walls of gathering spaces.

I knew I was in for a treat if the lodge’s beauty and serenity indicated what to expect from the treehouse. Greg met me back at my car with a golf cart, helped me load my luggage, and then whisked me off into the woods behind the lodge. As we approached my overnight accommodation in the trees, he glanced over at me with a smile. “It never gets old, does it? To see people’s reaction as the treehouse comes into view,” I asked him. The anticipation was palpable as we neared the treehouse, and the reveal was nothing short of breathtaking, leaving me in awe.

But before we got to the treehouse, we rode to the other side of the pond, where we could see it from a distance. Greg stopped the golf cart in a particular spot and encouraged me to come to this exact spot after dark. “Turn on all of the lights in the treehouse and walk over here after dark,” he told me. “The beauty and the reflection of the treehouse in the pond at night is nothing short of amazing.” Spoiler alert: He was so right.

Treehouse Accommodations

The two-story treehouse (which is one story off the ground, for a total of 3-stories in height) with two wrap-around decks is the perfect getaway for anyone seeking quiet and solitude. As you enter from the deck, a cozy sitting area with a dining table for two awaits. An electric “woodstove” takes the chill off nicely for those chilly mountain mornings. A bookshelf nook holds a few paperbacks and hardbacks, some cards, and games in case the rain keeps you inside.

But the real treasure is outside along the far side of the wrap-around deck. A gorgeous carved stone sink with hot and cold running water acts as a bathroom and kitchen sink, providing potable filtered water. An outdoor shower drains through slats in the decking, providing the most incredible elevated outdoor shower experience. There’s even an incinerating toilet (which you’ll be shown exactly how to work) for a no-fuss and easy “go.”

Upstairs on the second floor of the treehouse is a super comfy queen-sized bed adorned with crisp white sheets and a cozy blanket. The lofted ceiling provides an open and airy feel. Side tables made from tree trunks grace each side of the bed. Step outside for glorious, elevated views of the pond and surrounding woodlands. This is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine at sunset.

Exploring the Outdoors at Moose Meadow

Several trails are carved throughout the property, beckoning visitors to explore on foot. From short loops that are a leisurely meandering stroll to a more difficult straight ascend to the top of an overlook, there’s something for everyone. I chose the more difficult, nearly mile-long hike to an overlook called “The Sky Loft.”

The Sky Loft is a small round building with plexiglass walls that offers visitors a 360-degree view of the mountains in the distance. Set up with a couple of chairs and a small table; hikers can hang out in the space for as long as they wish. There’s even a sleeping loft if you’re brave enough to spend the night.

The last section of the trail is a relatively steep ascent, but rope railings provide a level of assistance not seen on other parts of the trail. If you have a moderate to excellent fitness level, it’s worth the trek to the top. Don’t forget to sign the visitor log and glance through the book to see all those who have visited before you. Take time to soak in the quiet where all you hear is the soft sound of the wind.

After a nice hike and further exploring the property, I sat in an Adirondack chair next to the pond to enjoy the warm September sun. Almost immediately, as if they knew I was there, trout began jumping through the water’s surface. Watching and listening intently, all I could hear were the birds calling to one another and the gentle splash of the trout. This is what unplugging is all about.

A Treehouse Massage

I had pre-scheduled an in-house massage to take my wellness escape to the next level. There’s just enough room in the treehouse’s sitting area to set up a portable massage table. My masseuse arrived at the treehouse via golf cart with all the essentials—the table, the draping, a portable music player, and oils.

This luxurious indulgence deepened my sense of relaxation, especially after a two-mile hike. If you enjoy a massage from time to time, having a massage in the quiet of a treehouse setting is something you won’t soon forget. As a bonus, the hourly rate for a treehouse massage is less than what you would expect to pay in a spa setting.

Spending a Quiet, Unplugged Evening

Since I had no television, internet, or cell service, it was an easy decision to pour a glass of wine and sit outside on the balcony overlooking the pond as dusk turned to darkness. After all, this is what mindful travel is all about. Remembering what Greg had said about capturing a picture of the treehouse at night, with a flashlight in hand, I walked around to the exact spot he had shown me.

Looking back at the treehouse glowing in the darkness and witnessing the reflection was breathtaking. At that moment, I wished I could stay in the treehouse for weeks. I could only imagine how spectacular the deepening fall foliage colors would become over the next few weeks before the treehouse closes for the season at the end of October.

As I returned to the quiet of the bench on the treehouse deck, I heard the unmistakable call of the barred owls. Their calls broke the silence like a hammer to a nail, yet somehow, I remained unstartled. It was as though I had become a part of the forest at night, deepening my appreciation for all parts of nature that surrounded me.

Waking up in a Treehouse

After a deep and peaceful night’s sleep, I awoke around daybreak. I couldn’t believe I was waking up in a treehouse! There was a bit of a chill in the air as I went down to make my morning coffee. I turned on the electric woodstove heater while my coffee was brewing and stepped outside to watch the fog begin to lift over the pond. Man, everyone could get used to slow mornings like this!

I poured my coffee and took it back upstairs. Sitting in bed, drinking my morning coffee, and reading a book in complete silence was heavenly. Before I realized it, I was three chapters and two cups of coffee into my morning. Breakfast was due to arrive at any moment.

“Tree service” arrived precisely at 8:45 a.m. and was set up for me on the dining table. Greg explained how Willie makes Danish pancakes in an Ebelskiver, the most requested breakfast item at Moose Meadow Lodge. I can attest that they were, indeed, the best pancakes I have ever eaten—no exaggeration.

The Best Outdoor Shower of My Life

About an hour before my departure, I went to the outdoor shower on the first-floor deck. By then, the outside temperature was warm enough for an indulgent soak in the trees. Within seconds, I had hot water and stepped under the shower head affixed to the tree. As if it were pre-planned by the universe, I looked across to the other side of the pond to witness a momma bear and her three cubs meandering across the field near where I had stood the night before.

I stood there mesmerized. I couldn’t believe I was lucky enough to witness such an incredible sight from my elevated position. They had no idea I was there and went on about their stroll. I watched until they left the field and entered the woods at a distance. It’s not every day you get to shower while watching bear cubs run and play! It was the absolute icing on the cake for my stay at Moose Meadow Treehouse.

The Many Benefits of Staying in a Treehouse

Connection to Nature: A tree house allows you to immerse yourself in nature, providing a unique vantage point to observe wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding environment.

Stress Relief: Being elevated among the trees can create a calming atmosphere, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Nostalgia and Joy: Treehouses evoke a sense of childhood wonder and adventure, allowing adults to reconnect with their inner child and fostering joy, creativity, and playfulness.

Unique Experience: Staying in a treehouse is an unconventional lodging option that offers a memorable experience and a break from the routine.

Inspiration and Creativity: The serene environment and unique setting can spark inspiration and creativity, making it an ideal place for writing, art, or mindfulness activities.

Sustainability: Many tree houses are eco-friendly and built with sustainable materials, allowing guests to enjoy nature responsibly and promote eco-conscious practices.

Disconnecting from Technology: Many treehouse escapes encourage a digital detox, offering a chance to unplug from screens and stay present in the moment.

Bespoke Wellness Travel Experiences, Crafted With a Certified Travel Coach

These benefits make treehouses a fantastic option for relaxation and rejuvenation, deepening one’s connection to the natural environment. If you’re curious about how creating wellness travel experiences like this one can benefit your health and well-being, I invite you to schedule a free consultation call with me. In just 30 minutes, we’ll create a mini-plan for your journey and discuss whether working together for a more inclusive experience matched with health coaching might be the right option for you.

Schedule your consultation call by clicking this link!