Australia’s love for the outdoors is being reflected in a growing trend towards ‘glamping’ or luxury camping with Canberrans joining in the move to enjoy this form of nature-based accommodation.
According to online booking platform Glamping Hub, glamping has never been more popular and Canberrans have an array of opportunities to try it out within easy driving distance.
Glamping Hub spokeswoman, Laura Grant, said regular camping has always provided a wonderful way to see nature and get away from the ‘real world’ but many people are not interested in sleeping on the ground or the lack of facilities.
“Glamping allows more individuals to immerse themselves in the great outdoors without losing any modern amenities — except occasionally WiFi, which in my opinion just enhances the stay,” said Ms Grant.
“This sort of travel appeals to a much larger group of people and makes for an entire experience in their lodging, rather than just a place to lay their head at night.”
Ms Grant said the definition of what constitutes ‘glamping’ tends to be fairly broad and is open to individual interpretation.
“Glamping can be a romantic couple’s getaway on a private beach or it can be a quaint log cabin in the forest perfect for a family reunion,” she said.
“The main feature is that each unique accommodation is close to nature and can provide a special getaway for those seeking it.”
Ms Grant said that Glamping Hub features more typical glamping accommodations such as safari tents, teepees or treehouses, but also offers villas, cabins or cottages.
Within three hours’ drive from Canberra, there is a growing range of glamping accommodation on offer from the romantic and the rustic through to the secluded and downright luxurious.
Region Media has put together six glamping options for anyone looking to try out something different within three hours of the nation’s capital.
Luxury tents near Jervis Bay
These spectacular safari tents start at $519 a night and guests can choose from original, deluxe or king deluxe tents. Each type of accommodation comes with a wrap-around deck, private ensuite bathroom and a fire pit. Guests also have bikes and canoes at their disposal. The luxury tents are located between several national parks full of hiking trails. Click here for details.
Rustic and secluded log cabin in the Snowy Mountains
This quaint log cabin located on a farm outside of Cooma sleeps five people and starts at $370 for a night. It is a few feet away from the Kydra River and between two national parks. Depending on the time of year, there are plenty of opportunities for skiing, hiking or canoeing. The cabin includes a fully-equipped kitchen, a bathroom, a cosy living room with a wood-burning fireplace and a range of other amenities. Click here for details.
Wilderness retreat in Jervis Bay National Park
This secluded wilderness hut sleeps two and starts at $252 per night. The hut directly faces Jervis Bay National Park, with guests having easy access to its many hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and panoramic views of forests and bushland. Behind the hut is a private fire pit and a barbecue grill – offering the opportunity for a romantic night under the stars. Click here for details.
Romantic getaway in a tiny house near Mystery Bay
This idyllic tiny home for two guests starts at $309 per night. The accommodation sits on 11 private acres of countryside close to Mystery Bay and Tilba Tilba Lake. The homey interior includes a lofted bed, full kitchen and bathroom, and a wood burning stove for colder months. Glampers also have access to a heated saltwater pool. Click here for details.
Couple’s getaway on a farm near Gundagai
This romantic A-frame cabin sleeps two and starts at $393 a night. The home is located on a 7,000-acre working farm at Gundagai and makes a great couple’s escape. It has views of rolling hills and is close to hiking trails and fishing destinations. This studio-style cabin has a full-size bed with provided linens, a bathroom, two comfortable armchairs and a wood-burning fireplace. Click here for details.
Lakeside cabin in Jervis Bay
This cabin is minutes from Jervis Bay National Park, sleeps two and starts at $240. The accommodation overlooks a beautiful lake and is perfect for a relaxing getaway. Guests can enjoy lounging on the furnished deck, watching the sunset over the water, spotting kangaroos or exploring the surrounding pastures. There is a fully-equipped kitchen, a bedroom with a queen-sized bed, a bathroom and a variety of amenities including an outdoor fire pit. Click here for details.
For other local holiday accommodation options check out Lisa Herbert’s tips on places to stay in South East NSW by clicking here and here. If you prefer to stay somewhere unusual or exotic – such as a lighthouse or a converted machinery shed – click on my guide here.