If you are looking to celebrate a special day in the rugged outdoors but with accommodation that combines the luxuries of a hotel with the ruggedness of camping, you are ready for Glamping.
What is Glamping
The idea of glamping originated in the early 1900s when wealthy travellers started to camp with the help of their personal assistants. Today, glamping has become a popular trend for people looking to enjoy the outdoors without giving up the comforts of home.
Types of Glamping Accommodations:
Glamping accommodations offer a range of amenities, including comfortable beds, heating, and electricity but do come in a number of different types
Yurts:
Yurts are circular structures with a wooden frame and a canvas cover. They provide a unique and comfortable glamping experience and originated in Central Asia. Yurts often come equipped with a bed, furniture, and heating, making them a cozy and comfortable option for glamping.
Treehouses:
Treehouses are elevated structures built on trees. They offer a unique and memorable glamping experience, with stunning views and a cozy atmosphere. Some treehouses even have amenities such as electricity, heating, and plumbing.
Safari Tents:
Safari tents are spacious canvas tents that come equipped with furniture, beds, and other amenities. They provide a comfortable and luxurious camping experience, with the ability to connect with nature.
Airstreams:
Airstreams are retro-styled trailers that offer a unique and stylish camping experience. They are equipped with modern amenities such as electricity and plumbing, making them a comfortable option for glamping. Airstreams provide a unique and nostalgic experience that is perfect for those who want to combine comfort with adventure.
Tipis:
Tipis are cone-shaped tents that have been traditionally used by Native Americans. They provide a rustic and unique glamping experience. Tipis are often equipped with a fire pit, a bed, and basic furniture, making them a cozy and comfortable option for glamping.
Cabins:
Glamping cabins come in various styles, from traditional log cabins to modern luxury cabins. They offer a comfortable and luxurious camping experience, with the ability to enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort. Cabins often come equipped with amenities such as electricity, heating, and plumbing, providing a home-like experience in the great outdoors.
What is the difference between glamping, camping and a hotel?
The main difference between glamping, camping and a hotel is the level of comfort and amenities offered.
Glamping provides a more luxurious and comfortable camping experience with many of the amenities of a hotel. Unlike traditional camping, glamping accommodations often come with comfortable beds, heating or air conditioning, electricity, and sometimes even private bathrooms.
When it comes to the outdoor experience, camping is the most rugged and back-to-basics option, while glamping provides a more comfortable and luxurious camping experience. Hotels, on the other hand, offer a fully indoor experience with all the amenities and comforts of home.
Activities to do while Glamping
You may be living it up in luxury outdoor accommodation, but this does not take away from the fact you are surrounded by nature and there is still a lot to explore in the outdoors.
- Hiking: Many glamping sites are located near hiking trails, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the area.
- Kayaking or Canoeing: Glamping sites near rivers or lakes often offer kayaking or canoeing rentals for a fun day out on the water.
- Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, many glamping sites are located near rivers or lakes where you can try your hand at catching some fish.
- Stargazing: With the lack of light pollution in remote glamping locations, stargazing is an incredible experience.
- Horseback Riding: Some glamping sites offer guided horseback riding tours that allow you to experience the beauty of the outdoors from a different perspective.
- Wildlife Viewing: Many glamping sites are located in areas with abundant wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for birds, deer, or even bears!
- Relaxing: Sometimes the best activity is just relaxing and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Sit back, read a book, or take a nap in your cosy glamping accommodations.
Tips for first-time glampers
Pack appropriate clothing and gear, researching the location ahead of time, and preparing for the outdoors.
Locations for Glamping
Glamping can be enjoyed in a wide range of habitats, including:
- National parks: Many national parks offer glamping accommodations, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature while staying in comfort.
- Beaches: Glamping on a beach allows visitors to enjoy stunning ocean views and take part in beach activities such as surfing and swimming.
- Forests: Glamping in a forest provides a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy the beauty of the trees and wildlife.
- Mountains: Glamping in the mountains offers stunning views and the opportunity to explore hiking trails and other outdoor activities.
- Private property: Some private landowners offer glamping accommodations, giving visitors the chance to enjoy nature in a secluded and peaceful setting.
Glamping Sites in England:
Dunton Hot Springs, Kirkby Fleetham, Yorkshire
Dunton Hot Springs is a former Victorian estate transformed into a luxurious glamping destination in Yorkshire, offering a blend of historic charm and modern comfort.
Website: Dunton Hot Springs
Jollydays Glamping, York, Yorkshire
Set in a beautiful woodland setting in Yorkshire, Jollydays Glamping offers safari tents, bell tents, and luxury cabins, providing a tranquil escape from nature.
Website: Jollydays Glamping
North Star Club, Sancton, Yorkshire
North Star Club offers luxury woodland cabins with private hot tubs and outdoor fire pits in Yorkshire, providing a cosy and romantic retreat amidst nature.
Website: North Star Club
The Fire Pit Camp, Wendling, Norfolk
The Fire Pit Camp is an eco-friendly glamping site in Norfolk, offering bell tents, yurts, and camping pitches with fire pits, creating a rustic yet comfortable atmosphere.
Website: The Fire Pit Camp
Swallowtail Hill, Beckley, East Sussex
Swallowtail Hill offers tranquil glamping in East Sussex, with yurts and shepherd’s huts set within a nature reserve, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Website: Swallowtail Hill
Crafty Camping, Holditch, Dorset
Crafty Camping in Dorset is known for its unique treehouse accommodation and luxury yurts, offering a secluded and eco-friendly glamping experience.
Website: Crafty Camping
Secret Meadows, Woodbridge, Suffolk
Set within a wildflower meadow in Suffolk, Secret Meadows offers luxury safari tents and a shepherd’s hut, providing a peaceful retreat in the countryside.
Website: Secret Meadows
The Pop-Up Hotel, Glastonbury, Somerset
The Pop-Up Hotel offers luxurious bell tents and safari lodges during the Glastonbury Festival, providing a glamorous camping experience with comfortable amenities.
Website: The Pop-Up Hotel
The Yurt Retreat, Somerset
Nestled in the Mendip Hills, providing cosy yurts with private facilities.
Website: The Yurt Retreat
Loose Reins, Dorset
Western-themed glamping site offering luxury cabins and outdoor activities.
Website: Loose Reins
Glamping Sites in Wales:
Fforest, Cardigan, Pembrokeshire
Fforest is a sustainable glamping retreat in Pembrokeshire, offering geodesic domes, crog lofts, and traditional camping options amidst nature reserves and woodlands.
Website: Fforest
Drover’s Rest, Hay-on-Wye, Powys
Set on a working farm near the Brecon Beacons, Drover’s Rest offers cozy shepherd’s huts and a converted horse lorry for a rustic glamping experience.
Website: Drover’s Rest
Celtic Camping, Pembrokeshire
Located near St. Davids in Pembrokeshire, Celtic Camping offers a variety of glamping options including bell tents, tipis, and wooden pods, with easy access to coastal walks and beaches.
Website: Celtic Camping
Glamping Sites in Scotland:
Glampotel Dundas Castle, South Queensferry, Edinburgh
Glampotel Dundas Castle offers luxury glamping in furnished canvas cottages near Edinburgh, providing a unique blend of comfort and outdoor adventure.
Website: Glampotel Dundas Castle
Loch Ness Glamping, Inverness
Located on the shores of Loch Ness, this glamping site offers a range of accommodation including luxury pods and hobbit houses, providing a unique opportunity to explore the Scottish Highlands.
Website: Loch Ness Glamping
The Lazy Duck, Nethy Bridge, Cairngorms National Park
Tucked away in the Cairngorms National Park, The Lazy Duck offers cozy eco-cabins and camping pitches surrounded by woodland and wildlife, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Website: The Lazy Duck
Caledonian Glamping, Balnain, Loch Ness
Offering luxury glamping pods with panoramic views of Loch Ness, Caledonian Glamping provides a comfortable and scenic base for exploring the surrounding Scottish Highlands.
Website: Caledonian Glamping
Glamping Sites with multiple locations:
El Cosmico, East Sussex
A quirky glamping site featuring vintage trailers, yurts, and safari tents.
Website: El Cosmico
Feather Down Farms, Various Locations
Offering luxurious canvas lodges on working farms across the UK.
Website: Feather Down Farms
Brownscombe Luxury Glamping, Devon
Eco-friendly glamping site with safari tents and log cabins.
Website: Brownscombe Luxury Glamping
Belltent Holidays, Various Locations
Glamping company offering bell tents in picturesque locations across the UK.
Website: Belltent Holidays
Boutique Camping, Various Locations
Known for its stylish bell tents and luxury camping accessories.
Website: Boutique Camping
Lantern & Larks, Various Locations
Luxury glamping site offering spacious safari tents in scenic countryside locations.
Website: Lantern & Larks
The Dream Lodge Group, Various Locations
Luxury lodge accommodation in various scenic locations across the UK.
Website: The Dream Lodge Group
In summary
Glamping offers a unique and comfortable way to experience the outdoors and still create the unique bond found with comaping.
Glamping can be more expensive than traditional camping or staying in a hotel, especially if you’re looking for a luxury experience. The cost can vary depending on the location, the amenities provided, and the time of year.
However, with a range of accommodations and locations to choose from, glamping is a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature without sacrificing comfort. By prioritizing sustainability and eco-friendly practices, glamping can also contribute to the preservation of the natural environment.