Glamping (Glamorous Camping) is the latest and most luxurious way to experience nature, and really does offer you the best of both worlds: the great outdoors, and the relaxation of a true holiday.
From tipis and tree houses to eco-pods, gypsy caravans, and shepherds’ huts, glamping will give you all the adventure of an outdoorsy holiday with the benefit of a few modern-day comforts, like actually staying warm and dry. There’s even the odd hot tub or medieval banquet for those who really want to indulge. So without further ado, here are five of the best glamping destinations in Europe, designed to help you say goodbye to sleeping bags and tent pegs forever.
Écovallée Yurt Camping, France
One of the difficulties of traditional camping trips is finding enough fun things for children to do, although you can find some great ideas for outdoors At this family-run camp in the heart of the Dordogne, however, you and your family will find everything you need for a green and luxurious holiday – no Googling required.
Set in 12.5 acres of land, a handcrafted chestnut and canvas yurt sleeps four, with access to a 12ft games yurt and woodland play area to keep the little ones entertained. Adults can also enjoy getting back to nature with hammocks, therapeutic massage, bread-making, and free-range chickens providing fresh eggs for breakfast. Lalinde, a thriving medieval market town, is only 300m away, with traditional markets held almost every day and night in the local villages. It’s glamping ‘the écovallée way’, and the ideal destination for any family escape.
Glamping Mangarito, Brazil
Surrounded by the preserved Atlantic Forest of Brazil, the private raised cabins at Glamping Mangarito offer guests all the comfort of a hotel in the heart of the jungle. Each of the two treehouses sleeps two, with private bathrooms, satellite TV, wi-fi, air conditioning and even your own mini-bar. After breakfast (included in the price), specialised tour guides will help you explore the spectacular local caves and waterfalls and introduce you to the region’s wildlife. Because what better way to discover glamping than with an expedition into the exotic?
Grand Hôtel des Rochers-de-Naye, Switzerland
At 2,045m high, the seven Mongolian yurts on the summit of the Rochers-de-Naye in Vaud, Switzerland, certainly offer a room with a view. Each yurt sleeps up to eight people and comes fully insulated with electric heating, making this a breath-taking choice all-year-round. Being on top of a mountain in the Swiss Alps does limit food choices, but breakfast and a fondue dinner are included in the price (CHF270/£166) and are available from the either of the two on-site restaurants. The scenic walks, winter skiing, and evening sunset over Lake Geneva are all the entertainment you’ll ever need.
Podere Pianetti Glamping, Italy
Located in Castagneto Carducci, “one of the most beautiful places on Earth”, Podere Pianetti first opened as a camping resort in August of this year, with their Safari Lodge tents offering guests a taste of luxury on the Etruscan coast. Complete with jacuzzi, wi-fi, satellite TV and your own private veranda, these five-sleeper tents also come with a fully equipped kitchen and dining room, truly making this a home-from-home experience. Pick herbs for dinner from the Aromatic Herb Garden, go for a bike ride (two adult bikes provided with the tent, although more can be hired if you need some activities for kids as well), or just sit back and relax in the beautiful Tuscan sun.
Somerset Garden Glamping, England
Adjacent to a wildflower meadow in rural Somerset, the authentic gypsy caravan and luxury yurt at Somerset Garden Glamping gives whole new meaning to a countryside English holiday. Sleeping up to eight guests (six in the yurt, two in the caravan), the beautiful green surroundings offer peace and tranquillity with all the convenience of a fully fitted kitchen, bathroom, log burner, undercover BBQ area, and large fire pit with log chair seating. Children and dogs are both welcome, with plenty of local attractions and activities for kids.
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