Woodnest Treehouse

If you’re looking for a place to “unwind” while perched high above the ground in a small town, this is exactly what you need. This isn’t just a hotel it’s an architectural masterpiece designed for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find peace in the Norwegian forests.

An Architectural Marvel

The treehouses were designed by renowned Norwegian architects from the firm Helen & Hard. The main concept is seamless integration with nature: each treehouse is anchored to the trunk of a living pine tree.

From the outside, the structures resemble pine cones thanks to the use of natural wooden shingles, which weather over time and blend even more seamlessly with the forest.

Amenities and Comfort

Although these are “treehouses,” the level of comfort here is on par with that of a luxury hotel:

Interior: Compact (about 15 m²), yet incredibly cozy spaces with large panoramic windows offering stunning views of the Hardanger Fjord.

Amenities: Each cabin has its own bathroom with a shower and toilet, a small kitchen (induction stove, refrigerator), and heated floors, making your stay comfortable even during the cold season.

Atmosphere: The interiors feature natural birch wood and wool, as well as designer furniture from the Norwegian brand Eikund.

As a rough guide, the pricing is as follows:

• Average price: Accommodation typically costs between 4,500 and 7,500 Norwegian kroner (NOK) per night (which is approximately 430–720 euros).
• Factors affecting the price:
  • Season: During peak periods (summer, public holidays), prices are significantly higher.
  • Weekends: Nights from Friday through Sunday are almost always more expensive than weekdays.
  • Minimum stay: Sometimes a hotel may require a minimum stay of two nights, especially during peak season.

What to Know Before Booking

Physical Fitness: The trail to the cabins is a real hike. You’ll have to hike up a steep trail through the forest, which takes 20 to 45 minutes depending on your fitness level and the weather. This is the “price” you pay for complete seclusion and tranquility.

Location: Woodnest is located near the famous Trolltunga (“Troll’s Tongue”) rock formation and the Folgefonn Glacier, making it an ideal base for active travelers.

Meals: The hotel is primarily self-catering. You can order local food baskets in advance or buy everything you need in Oddi.

Seasonality: In summer, enjoy green valleys and hiking; in winter, experience the magical “northern silence,” snow, and the cozy warmth inside the “nest.”

As for dining at Woodnest Treehouse, the concept is built around maximum privacy, so there is no on-site restaurant.

Here’s how meals are handled:

1. Self-catering (kitchen in the treehouse)

Each treehouse is equipped with a kitchenette that has everything you need for basic meal preparation:

• An induction cooktop (two burners) and a small refrigerator.
• Coffee maker (French press), kettle, dishes, and cutlery.
• Basic ingredients provided by the hotel: olive oil, salt, pepper, coffee, and tea.
• Important: Since you’ll have to hike up with your backpacks (20–40 minutes), it’s best to buy groceries in advance at the supermarkets in the town of Odda before heading up the mountain.

2. Special kits from the hotel (additional order)

When booking, you can order signature packages that will be waiting for you in your room upon check-in:

• The Lovenest Package (~990 NOK / €85–90): A welcome platter with cheeses, snacks, jamón, fruit, chocolate, and a bottle of local Norwegian cider from the Hardanger region.
• Alcoholic packages (wine or champagne with chocolate) cost approximately 600 NOK (~€50–55).

3. Places to Eat in the Town of Odda (Down Below, at the Foot of the Mountain)

If you’d like to have lunch outside the cabin, there are several wonderful places in the town of Odda itself, just a 10–15-minute drive from the parking lot:

• Ferskvaren —a charming gastropub and local fish market where you can try fresh seafood and local dishes.
• Smeltehuset Restaurant —a café and restaurant on the waterfront with a view of the fjord.
• Fløy Bakery —a great bakery for morning coffee and fresh pastries.
• Buer Restaurant —a high-end restaurant near the Buerbreen Glacier, serving New Norwegian cuisine.

Verdict

Woodnest is the perfect place for a romantic getaway or a personal retreat. It’s a place where you wake up to the rustling of branches, see the mist over the fjord, and feel like you’re part of the forest—all without sacrificing modern comforts.

Tip: Since the trail can be slippery (especially in winter or when it rains), be sure to bring comfortable hiking shoes.

Information

Address: Kleivavegen 21, 5750 Odda, Norway. | Website: woodnest.no | Phone: 47 91 24 01 12