Speekhout Treehouse, Baviaanskloof, Eastern Cape on Budget-Getaways

Budget Getaways Review

Right folks, here’s a getaway with a serious difference: a secluded treehouse organically moulded into the trunk and branches of a giant Karee tree.

Now, if you're conjuring images of a cramped wendy house nailed to some old teerpale… forget it, this is the real deal. In fact, Speekhout Treehouse is nothing less than the stuff fairytales are made of.

First off, the view: a 360-degree outlook onto the Baviaanskloof and the surrounding red rock formations known as The Crocodile.

Secondly, the construction: a painstaking handcrafted affair using timber, raw tree elements and antique doors and windows.

Although accommodating a possible troop of six, we'd say Speekhout is best suited to couples out for a romantic break. Our advice: surprise your partner by not even telling him/her where you're going…

Like any treehouse worth its salt, the facilities are spread across several levels. Heading up the wooden ladder brings you to the front door and into the rustic lounge, with its built-in dining table, double sleeper couch and open fireplace. Can you think of a better spot to curl up in front of with a fine bottle of plonk?

Leading off from the lounge, the kitchen is equipped with microwave, gas hob, kettle, toaster and sink, while back on ground level you’ll find the open-air shower and loo, walled in by a reed shelter.

Heading up another level you enter the main bedroom (with a double and single bed), which in turn opens to a small balcony.

Now, wait for it… the bedroom roof is retractable. Allowing serious appreciation of the amazing night sky (so bright with stars you best smear on the Factor 30), while remaining tucked up in bed.

You'll have to find a good reason to come down from your cosy canopy, but fortunately there are a couple, including some pleasant day hikes and a nearby swimming hole.

For a night or three of fairytale living, Speekhout is one you're unlikely to forget.

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Guest Reviews

"Three of us stayed at Speekhout for a couple of nights in the beginning of May 2013 and we wished we'd booked for longer. The treehouse is spectacular - this is real fantasy adventure time! - and very comfortable and well equipped. The surrounding hills and mountains are inviting and we wished we'd had more time to explore. Speekhout is set in a very pretty, secluded and peaceful valley a little off the main road through the kloof. Michelle is a wonderful host and the creativity and love it must have taken to create this unique place just oozes out of every nook and cranny. The open air bathroom is situated in the canopy and is a little sun trap - never thought we'd love an outside shower this much on a freakishly cold May morning! Baviaanskloof is a very special place, thank you Michelle and Peter for sharing your bit of heaven with us."

(visited May 2013)

"Speekkhout is a delightful hideaway in a beautiful setting. We found it to be a brilliant kick-off to our camping holiday in Baviaanskloof and it was an especially special experience for our two boys aged 3 and 6. The owners were welcoming, friendly and helpful. Great walking and swimming spots on the farm too. Highly recommended."

(visited April 2013)

Speekhout Treehouse

Baviaanskloof, Eastern Cape

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