Stay Here: This Eco-Conscious Jungle Retreat Is a Grown-Up Treehouse

February 05, 2020 by Rory Carter

Located on a secluded beach road just minutes from the breathtaking natural beauty of the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, Tulum Treehouse is like something straight out of a film. The minimalist white concrete building is protected by gigantic palm fronds that provide respite from the warm sun and throw dappled shadows across the entire retreat. Feeling more like a private residence than a traditional hotel, this five-bedroom escape is bursting with activities and curated amenities that pay homage to the talents and traditions of the local culture. Whether you enjoy spending your days lazily by the beach or tucked within your treetop suite, Tulum Treehouse has something for everyone.

Local design studio CO-LAB and prolific interior designer Annabell Kutucu were brought on board to create the atmosphere and aesthetic that has become instantly recognisable for the boutique accommodation spot. With a washed-out, minimalist style, everything here feels personal and handmade. To achieve this effect, a collaboration between international designers and local artisans was necessary. A few particular materials such as Tzalam wood and Oaxacan rugs feature heavily throughout and provide a consistency that helps to make the spaces feel like an extension of each other. It would be impossible not to run your hands over every textured concrete wall and rattan pendant in what can only be described as a sensory overload. In the best way possible.

If you thought that the secluded location of Tulum Treehouse meant that you'd be stuck for things to do, you'd be very wrong. Let's start with the kitchen and bar. Food is prepared using pre-Hispanic techniques and corn is the hero ingredient here. Everything is cooked over an open fire fed purely by wood and originates from trusted local and organic producers. If you're lucky, you might be served up a meal from one of the many chefs who visit from around the globe. If you've never tried mezcal, now's the perfect opportunity. The treehouse produces their own variation on the traditional drink, using indigenous ingredients such as hibiscus flower and Mayan cacao to put an artisan twist on the alcoholic beverage. On Tuesdays, the garden is turned into an immersive cinematic experience with a selection of the best Mexican films on offer under the stars. Keen to bring back a piece of Tulum with you? Pop by the store to pick up a handcrafted ceramic creation to infuse your home with the spirit of Mexico.