Woodnest: A Treehouse Escape in Odda Norway

A satisfying crunching sound is omitted from below our car wheels as we pull into the sheltered driveway which belongs to our home for the next 2 nights. A thick and fluffy layer of snow coats the small town of Odda which sits at the southern end of the Hardanger Fjord in Norway. This area is most famously known for its spectacular mountain formations, including the Trolltunga cliff and the Folgefonna glacier however what has drawn us to this area of the world in mid-December are the Woodnest treehouses. 

Owned and operated by a husband and wife duo, the pair worked with Norwegian architects to create a dream experience stay nestled within the woods offering uninterrupted views over the spectacular Fjord. The contemporary structure has been designed with a tree running through the centre for main support and a small bridge leading up to the front door. These small and cosy spaces are capable of sleeping four with a small bathroom, kitchenette and two armchairs to recline on and take in the views. 

The hike up to the cabins is steep and particularly tricky in the winter months but snow crampons are provided to make the journey a little easier and it is essential to pack light with a backpack. With wine and supplies for the evening's meal with us, we begin our ascent within the last hour of sunlight for the day at around 3 pm. It is not recommended to attempt the climb in the dark and as we arrive just as night has well and truly fallen a welcoming warm glow radiates from within. As we open the front door we were greeted with the warmth of underfloor heating and a bottle of local sparkling apple juice.

Away from the world below the treehouses feel completely isolated but not alone amongst the continual hum of the natural habitat which surrounds them. Only 15 sqm the area feels spacious with 3/4 of the walls containing windows to optimise light and the surrounding space. With little daylight during the winter months, we spent our time watching clouds of snow coat the trees and cover our tracks on the ground below. There is an option for breakfast and/or charcuterie board which comes at an additional cost but predominantly these cabins are self-service.

The town of Odda offers a small but good selection of stores and restaurants with our favourite being Thai Takeaway Odda or a more traditional option at Fjoren serving classic Norwegian dishes. Woodnest is reachable by car from Oslo in 5-6 hours, Bergen in 2.5-3 hours or by local buses. We flew into Bergen for the night and had an excellent meal at Dirty Vegan followed by drinks at No Stress Bar. An alternative for some fine local dining would be Fjellskål Seafood Restaurant with views over the water.

Our time spent in Woodnest will never be forgotten and has only opened the door to what the naturally beautiful country of Norway has to offer. This is truly a unique stay for the adventurous couple seeking escapism and time to reconnect with something unique and magical with each season.

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