The classic camping usually means sleeping in tents, hammocks, caravans or camper vans. However, who hasn’t dreamed of sleeping in a treehouse as a child? Today, kids and adults can easily fulfill their dreams of camping in one of the many tree house hotels worldwide. Ordinary tree house hotels usually have two or more beds for sleeping, a camping toilet and a balcony. Furthermore, the tree houses with better equipment often have a well-equipped kitchen and a shower/WC with running water.
In general, the tree house hotels are also heated making year-round usage possible. An option for adults to realise their childhood dream of having their own four walls in the treetop is to build their own tree house. Some people might think of building such a house on a tree in the middle of a forest. Yet this is mostly forbidden without the permission of the forest owner. But if you follow a few rules, you can build your dream house directly in a tree in the garden. Naturally, you first have to find a suitable tree.
What kind of tree is suitable?
The perfect tree for tree houses doesn’t really exist. However, trees that branch off at low heights are particularly suitable, because it is easier to anchor tree houses here. Basically all load-bearing trees with hard wood such as oaks, lime trees or beeches are qualified. Less strong trees such as birches, poplars or willows are less suitable without additional anchoring, e.g. stilts. Also fruit trees aren’t recommended because their branches break easily. Alternatively, larger conifers such as cedars or pines can also be used. Once you have a suitable tree, you can get started building a tree house.
Does a tree house have to be approved?
In Europe, people often build treehouses as children’s playhouses. As a rule, these are not subject to approval, as long as they do not contain lounges with fireplaces, cooking facilities or toilets. However, above a certain size, tree houses may require a building permit. The different categories of tree houses vary from state to state. Sizes range from 10 to 75 m³ within the development plan area (B plan area). With a few exceptions, building a tree house without a permit is prohibited outside the development plan area.
Furthermore, you should obeservve neighborhood laws. Just ask your neighbours beforehand.
What do I have to take into account when building the tree house?
What do I have to take into account when building the tree house?Most important for the stability is the anchoring of the tree. Make sure the tree is big enough. The minimum trunk diameter (MSD) of the tree should be at least 45 cm at the height of the tree house platform. But the branches on which the weight of the tree house rests must also be able to withstand this load. Nature lovers who want to build their lofty castle in the tree without damaging the tree should generally do without tree house screws. Instead, they should use suspended tree house constructions. Coated steel cables and textile belts form the rope constructions to keep the sensitive bark of the tree undamaged. Another way not to damage the tree is to use stilt houses. These stilts are dug into the ground directly next to the tree and do not have to be attached to the tree. All you need to do now is to install a climbing ladder, a rope ladder or a fixed staircase to reach the tree house from the ground.
Important:
Don’t use heavy materials of stone, steel in addition, heavy woods, e.g. oak wood should. Larch wood is most suitable. This light wood is also extremely resistant which improves its durability.
How much does a tree house cost?
The material costs for a simple tree house with a load-bearing base plate, a conversion and roofing amount to approx. 200 Euros. Professionally constructed tree houses, on the other hand, are considerably more expensive. Depending on the equipment, the costs can reach 5 digits. Therefore you have a tree house which you can use all year round with a durability guarantee.
Are there suppliers for tree houses, who can support with the building?
There is a large number of carpentry companies specialising in the planning and construction of tree house. Those with a talent for crafts should definitely make a try themselves. There are extensive building instructions for building your own house. People with less craftsmanship can either buy the dream tree house ready-made or simply request individual components. In addition, special wishes such as an oriel, a tower, a spiral staircase or a hanging bridge can easily be implemented by skilled companies. Some architects also help to design and build tree houses. You can find all you need on the Internet.
Our conclusion:
Camping between treetops is a very special experience, not only for lovers of camping, but for all nature-loving people. Sleeping on top of the trees for one night is an original alternative to a caravan or tent. Whether as a couple or as a family with children, such an adventure at lofty heights is something for everyone. Let the rustling of the leaves rock you to sleep and let the chirping of the birds wake you up. Thus, long forgotten children’s dreams can still come true.