Treetop Resort Lug ins Land: A treehouse retreat in the heart of nature

By Nane Steinhoff | Photos: Martin Deneke

Experience nature, adventure, and sustainability above the forest floor at the Treetop Resort Lug ins Land, a partner of Harz National Park.

Nestled on the edge of the Harz National Park, in Ilsenburg in Germany’s Saxony-Anhalt, the Treetop Resort Lug ins Land offers guests the unique opportunity to sleep among the treetops and wake up to the sights and sounds of one of Germany’s most beautiful natural landscapes. This passion project, founded by Kerstin E. Tiede and Thomas Händel, is more than just an eco-friendly escape. It is an invitation to reconnect with nature, discover the history and culture of the Harz region, and create unforgettable memories for visitors of all ages.

Founders Kerstin E. Tiede and Thomas Händel. Photo: Michael Palatini

The story of Lug ins Land began after the founders’ children had left home, freeing up time and energy to embark on a new adventure. “During a hike on the island of Sardinia, the idea arose to build treehouses,” Kerstin E. Tiede recalls. Alongside Thomas Händel, their dream was to create a place where people could experience the magic of Harz from a new perspective. Extensive research, sketches, and collaboration with various architects and local craftsmen led to the realisation of this vision. After a challenging three-and-a-half-year approval process, construction began, and in July 2022, the first guests were warmly welcomed to the resort.

Treetop Resort Lug ins Land: A treehouse retreat in the heart of nature

Living among the treetops

Set on an approximately 5,000-square-metre plot bordering untouched forest and meadowland, the resort features six individually named treehouses, each inspired by local natural landmarks: Brocken-Loft, Westerklippen-Loft, Zeterklippen-Loft, Froschfelsen-Loft, Ilsestein-Loft, and the latest addition, Scharfenstein-Loft. Designed in a modern, cubic style and built from eco- friendly larch wood, the treehouses rise up to seven metres above the ground, offering breathtaking views over the Harz landscape and direct access to the wonders of the national park. “From our treehouses, you have a dreamlike view into the land and the directly adjacent Harz National Park,” says Thomas Händel.

Treetop Resort Lug ins Land: A treehouse retreat in the heart of nature

Every thoughtfully designed treehouse includes modern amenities, cosy larch-wood interiors, and terraces for soaking in the sunshine or enjoying the outdoors in all weather. With the choice between 40 square metres for up to four people, or up to 49 square metres of living space for up to six people, freestanding furniture, fully equipped kitchens, and playful touches like swings, trampolines, and hidden corners for children to explore, the resort caters to a wide range of guests. “The Treetop Resort Lug ins Land is a very special place for big and small adventurers, connoisseurs, mountain bikers, nature lovers, seekers of peace, and hikers,” the founders share. Regular courses, such as Zhineng Qigong, yoga, and nature experiences, are also offered, and for ultimate relaxation, several treehouses feature infrared saunas.

View into the Harz National Park. Photo: Monique Maume

For those eager to explore, the Harz region is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Guests can visit the former East-West German border at Harzer Grenzmuseum, hike or bike along mountain trails, swim in clear lakes, or discover the half-timbered town of Wernigerode and the UNESCO World Heritage town Quedlinburg. Additional attractions include the renowned Brocken peak, the Harz narrow-gauge railway, glassworks, and the lynx enclosure in Bad Harzburg. “The history, culture, and nature of Harz, a German low mountain range with the Brocken at 1,141 metres, are all right at your doorstep,” the founders explain.

Living area with view towards the covered terrace.

Sustainability and accessibility at its core

While the resort is heated by a local heat network with underfloor heating, it uses untreated larch wood and eco-friendly insulation, and avoids concrete, plastics, and steel wherever possible. Laundry is washed on-site and dried in the pure Harz air when the weather allows. An electric vehicle charging station, a shuttle service for guests arriving by public transport, and a commitment to local sourcing of products underscore their dedication to environmental responsibility. “We were honoured to receive the Tourism Prize of Saxony-Anhalt in the category sustainability in October 2025,” the founders say, expressing gratitude for the recognition and the community support that made it possible. They are also proud partners of the Harz National Park and organised a tree-planting campaign with local youth, planting 1,400 trees and shrubs.

Inclusivity is another distinguishing feature of the resort. Westerklippen-Loft, for example, is certified for guests with hearing impairments, and well-behaved pets are welcome in this treehouse too. “All other treehouses are pet-free out of consideration for our guests,” the owners note.

The team’s passion and care are evident in every detail, like the optional breakfast roll service from the neighbourhood bakery. “The Treetop Resort Lug ins Land is our heartfelt project in Harz. We are delighted by every new guest we can introduce to our homeland and by the many repeat visitors who return time and again.” Whether you are seeking a family adventure, a romantic getaway, or a peaceful retreat in nature, Treetop Resort Lug ins Land invites you to experience Harz from an entirely new vantage point – high above the forest floor.

Treetop Resort Lug ins Land: A treehouse retreat in the heart of nature