Durban - To say that I was charmed by Sycamore Avenue Treehouses in the KZN Midlands would be an understatement.
We spent the most chilled weekend I can recall in ages. Not only because of its pretty setting with snow-capped Giant’s Castle clearly visible in the distance, but because it is cute, quaint, even fantastic and has an appealing, laid-back air.
Sycamore Avenue – sycamores and many other trees aside – comprises a number of private, mostly wooden houses set in and among the many trees.
Sycamore Avenue Treehouses was started by Bruce and Gloria Attwood in 2000, combining Gloria’s business skills and Bruce’s passion for woodwork. Bruce’s novel creations are charming and unconventional.
With names and themes like Fantasy House, Faraway Tree, Pegasus and Planequarium, these quirky constructions are whimsical and witty.
We occupied Planequarium for the weekend. Set among the trees it has an ornate wood and glass door decorated with stars and fish.
Downstairs is a cosy living room with a welcome fireplace and walls decorated with dozens of almost zoologically correct wooden fish, seaweed and sea flowers. There are bunk beds and a TV, which we never switched on (SABC channels only).
The steep, winding stairs led to a landing with bar fridge and tea/coffee facilities, basins, and similarly carved doors to two en suite toilets and two bedrooms decorated with highly inaccurate clusters of wooden stars.
One bedroom has a queen size bed, one a double bed with a fish carved on the headboards and bedspreads made from outrageously colourful fish and star sarongs. A covered balcony links the bedrooms and a bridge takes you to the separate “water tower” spa bath, with stairs to the “twin showers” and ground.
There are clever touches everywhere. Idiosyncratic furniture and follies – Heath Robinson-style in wood.
Host Stefan van Staden has a gruff grace and his better half, Candice, has a smile to die for.
The food, ingredients for which are mainly sourced locally, is not haute cuisine, but still really good. Dietary requirements are well catered for, though the hearty grub is not for dieters.Their chocolate pudding was one of the best I’ve tried, as were their signature scones.
The dining room has views of the Berg. There’s a comfy lounge and bar for pre- and after-dinner drinks, and television for those who feel the need.
We were content to be lulled by beautiful views, as well as some of the inside of our eyelids as we lay on the comfy couches before a crackling fire, appropriate beverages at hand.
We did meander through the Midlands as well, picking up bargains at The Ugly Duckling in nearby Rosetta, teas and coffees here and there and felt no need for lunch.
l Rates are from R795 per person – dinner, bed and breakfast. Go there if you’re looking for something unusual, relaxed and comfortable – but not if you can’t manage stairs or are seeking luxury (though there are spa baths).
Call 033 263 5009 or visit www.treehouse-acc.co.za - Sunday Tribune