Perhaps in direct response to the dominance of technology in the modern world, many travelers are feeling a strong draw towards nature. While some are able to fully embrace their wild instincts, other people may want a taste of nature without diving into the full experience of sleeping on the ground, having no functional toilets, and zero hot water. Luckily, the travel industry has anticipated and reacted to this growing class of the casual nature lover, and has given birth to glamorous camping, affectionately known as “glamping.” Various forms of glamping can be found in most places around the world, including Australia. The travel gurus over at AllTheRooms have arranged a few beginner glamping destinations, both in the Land Down Under and elsewhere, including Arathusa safari lodge to give everyone a beautiful view of the great outdoors but from a king-sized bed.

Longitude 131

This eco-lodge in the Outback definitely puts the emphasis on the “glam” in glamping. With unimpeded views of Uluru this destination wins for location. Basking in the beauty of the rolling red dunes from the plunge pool or from the foot of the plush beds, every “tent” is a truly unique experience. The spiritual connection created with Australia’s most iconic natural wonder is undeniable, even if it is helped along with a bottle of wine.

Orca Island Sailboat

The state of Washington, in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, besides being the birthplace of Starbucks, is an outdoorsman’s paradise. This accommodation option proves that glamping isn’t always in a luxury tent, nor is it even always on land. Anchored in an inlet amongst the remote and forested San Juan Islands, this sailboat offers pure, remote relaxation. Wannabe sailors can witness the hours tick by from the deck as they watch for killer whales, otters, and other marine life. Afterward, retire to a cabin complete with comfortable beds, warm water, and a kitchen.

Mount Bohemia Adventure Resort

Located amongst the Great Lakes in the north of the United States, Michigan is an underrated outdoors destination with an abundance of powder in the winter and endless lakeside activities in the summer months. With an opposing seasonal schedule to Australia, winter or summer nuts can escape to the Mount Bohemia Adventure Resort to extend their favorite season. Mount Bohemia is arguably the best skiing mountain in the central US and for the long days of summer, guests can go mountain biking, kayaking, or on a day-long fishing trip, offered as part of the all-inclusive price.

Tanja Lagoon Camp

Three and a half hours southeast of Canberra, on the Pacific coast, the Tanja Lagoon Camp is nestled amongst Wadbilliga National Park and has easy access to both Kosciuszko and Namadgi National Parks. As the name may suggest, Tanja offers a lagoon view to guests staying in one of their luxury safari tents, which include queen beds, a wide wooden deck, and spacious bathtubs. On TLC land, tourists will be pleased with the presence of a large troop of kangaroos, as well as other local natives like echidnas, bandicoots, and wallabies. Activities besides an Australian-style safari from the comfort of your own room, include trekking to Middle Beach where the lagoon converges with the ocean, nearby surf spots, and canoeing. The fun doesn't stop when the sun goes down either; without any lights from nearby cities interfering with the night’s sky, stargazing at Tanja is some of the best in the world.

Merzouga Desert Camp

Most people who think of glamping destinations in Africa think of the safari camps in sub-Saharan regions where elephants and giraffes are frequent visitors -- but why not go glamping in the actual Sahara? The Merzouga camp is incredibly remote, where the views consist of endless rolling dunes. From the town of Merzouga the camp is a 15-minute 4x4 drive through the desert, but to get the best experience, opt for a camel ride to camp. Once arrived, guests can hike, picnic at an oasis, and drive desert buggies. For a romantic evening option, staff at the site will prepare a meal served atop a neighboring dune, complete with champagne, a decorative rug, and plush pillows with traditional designs. Enjoy!

Zack is a recovering technical recruiter who traded in his suit and tie in Silicon Valley for salsa music and a passion for writing in Medellin, Colombia. When not writing for AllTheRooms you can find Zack with his nose in a book, puttering around nature, or getting ultra-competitive in trivia.


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