When it comes to extravagantly unconventional accommodations, these three wooden spheres, handmade by owner-inventor Tom Chudleigh and suspended like giant eyes within the forest canopy, score 10 out of 10. Compact two- to three-person spheres have pull-down beds, built-in cabinets and mini-libraries rather than TVs and are a perfect way to commune with BC’s giant trees.
Named 'Eve' (the smallest and most basic), 'Eryn' and 'Melody,' each sphere is reached by a wooden spiral staircase with an outhouse situated at the bottom (oh, those nighttime walks!). There's also a ground-level facilities block with a surprisingly deluxe sauna, BBQ and hotel-quality showers.
The spheres are located 18km northwest of Qualicum Beach, but are well hidden in the forest and hard to find. Book ahead and ask for directions.
Tom is in the process of building another sphere and moving the whole project to another site. Check online for updates.