Treehouse stay in Belgium: sleeping among the trees
Sleeping at four or five metres high, surrounded by trees, with only birdsong in the morning. A treehouse stay in Belgium is no longer a children's experience, it's become a serious category among holiday accommodations. We lay everything out: where to find them, what to expect, what they cost.
For a treehouse stay in Belgium, the Ardennes or Kempen are the best places to book. Prices vary from 130 euros per night for a simple treehouse to 350 euros for a luxury version with private bathroom, terrace and view. Reserve 4 to 6 weeks in advance for weekends, longer for school holidays.
Why a treehouse stay?
The appeal of a treehouse lies in the idea that you briefly step out of the ordinary world. No street noise, no neighbours three metres away, no regular house with regular walls. Instead, you're high among the branches, looking out over the forest and hearing the wind in the leaves. That sounds romantic and it is, but there's more to it.
A treehouse is a unique setting that makes the experience more intense. Couples book a treehouse for a birthday or wedding day. Families choose a large family treehouse that gives the children unforgettable memories. Anyone who loves photography finds in a treehouse among the trees a setting that's exceptionally good for atmospheric shots.
Treehouses are also the perfect alternative for those who've had enough of standard hotels or holiday homes. You stay in something special without having to travel to the other end of the world. For Belgians who used to look for these experiences in Norway or Sweden, Belgium is now a fully-fledged choice as a destination.
Where to find treehouses in Belgium?
The Ardennes are clearly leading. The deep deciduous forests around La Roche-en-Ardenne, Vielsalm, Bouillon and the Semois valley form the natural setting for treehouse projects. Some are on private estates with multiple treehouses, others stand alone next to the owner's home. Prices are higher here than elsewhere, but the atmosphere is also more impressive.
Bekijk ook vakantiewoningen in de Ardennen voor meer ideeën in deze regio. The Kempen is the second major region. With its pine forests, heathlands and open structure, the Kempen is ideal for those who want to combine a treehouse with cycle routes and walking trails. Treehouses here are often somewhat simpler than in the Ardennes, but therefore also more affordable. Mol, Lommel and the Hechtel area are popular destinations.
There are also several treehouses scattered in the Flemish Ardennes, in Limburg and even in West Flanders. They are scarcer and book up quickly, but offer something unique: a treehouse within cycling distance of Ghent or Antwerp, ideal for a short escape without a long drive.
What to expect?
Comfort levels vary enormously. On the simple side: a wooden structure between the trees, a bed, a toilet or composting toilet, and a shared shower at the owner's place. On the luxury side: a fully-fledged holiday home on stilts with private bathroom, kitchen, sitting area and even hot tub on the terrace. So always read the description carefully before booking.
Size also varies. Most treehouses are for two people, sometimes with a mezzanine for two extra sleeping spots. For families there are roomier models up to six people. Very large treehouses for groups are still rare, but some projects in the Ardennes rent out a treehouse domain with multiple treehouses together.
Electricity and internet are not a given. Some treehouses run on solar panels and offer basic electricity for lighting and a charging point. Wifi is deliberately not provided in many treehouses, precisely to enhance the disconnect effect. Anyone dependent on internet for work or medical reasons should check this in advance.
Prices and when to book
A simple treehouse for two starts around 130 euros per night. You get a night between the trees, basic comfort, a simple breakfast or self-catering. Treehouses with private bathroom and own kitchen are between 180 and 250 euros per night. The luxury variant with hot tub, terrace and panoramic view goes up to 350 euros per night or more.
The busiest periods are school holidays and weekends in May, June and September. For these periods, booking 8 to 12 weeks in advance is wise. For weekday nights in winter you often still find last-minute deals at good rates. Many treehouse owners give a discount for two or three nights instead of just a weekend.
Also take seasonal variations into account. Some treehouses are not heated or only partially heatable in winter. For those wanting to stay between December and January, the luxury models with wood stove or electric heating are recommended. A night in an unheated treehouse at five degrees outside is comfortable for very few people. Voor wie liever een glamping ervaring in België overweegt, zijn er ook luxe tenten en safari-huisjes als alternatief.
Practical tips for your treehouse stay
Pack light, but think of extra warm clothing. Even in summer a treehouse cools quickly at night because it's not as well insulated as a regular house. A good sleeping bag or extra blanket on top of the bed makes a difference. For winter: pack multiple layers, a hat and woollen socks.
Putting shoes on and off on the stairs is a point of attention. Most treehouses are only accessible via a wooden staircase, and you go up and down it several times a day. Shoes you can easily slip on and off save time. For families with young children it's also important that the staircase has a railing and can be secured.
Plan your meals in advance. In a treehouse the kitchen facilities are often limited to a kettle, a hob with two burners and a small fridge. Simple meals or takeaway dishes from the local caterer work best. Anyone who likes extensive cooking or grilling is better off choosing a treehouse with a real outdoor kitchen or barbecue.
Frequently asked questions
How expensive is a treehouse stay in Belgium?
A simple treehouse for two costs around 130 euros per night. Treehouses with private bathroom and own kitchen are between 180 and 250 euros. Luxury treehouses with hot tub or special amenities go up to 350 euros per night or more.
Are there treehouses with private sanitation in Belgium?
Yes, more and more treehouses have a private bathroom and toilet. Especially in the Ardennes you find luxury treehouses with full sanitation, own kitchen and even a hot tub.
Can you stay in a treehouse in winter?
Some treehouses are open year-round and heated, often with a wood stove or electric heating. Others close in winter. Always check in advance whether the treehouse is heated and which seasons it's open.
Are treehouses in Belgium suitable for children?
Some yes, others no. Treehouses for two people are usually not set up for children. Family treehouses with multiple beds and a safe staircase also exist.
How far from Brussels or Antwerp are Belgian treehouses?
Most treehouses in the Ardennes are 1.5 to 2 hours' drive from Brussels or Antwerp. Treehouses in the Kempen or Flemish Ardennes are often reachable in 1 to 1.5 hours.