Most of us really enjoy the concept of camping – sleeping under the stars, becoming one with nature, toasting marshmallows over the campfire – but it’s the practicalities that discourage the masses from pitching their tents. But what if there was a way to redefine roughing it – to head to the wild in style?
Glamping or glamour camping has long been popular in Africa (cast your mind back to the safari camp depicted in Out of Africa staring Meryl Streep and Robert Redford). But it’s only in the past two decade that boutique accommodation operators in New Zealand and Australia have started to embrace the concept of luxury camping.
One such retreat is the Paperbark Camp, located a little over two hours south of Sydney near Jervis Bay. Concealed within 100 acres of dense scrub, Paperbark Camp offers visitors the ultimate back-to-nature-retreat with opulent tents adorned with all the normal hotel luxuries.
Irena and Jeremy Hutchings opened Paperbark Camp over fifteen years ago and were determined to make the most of the spectacular bush environment. They’ve also made an effort to embrace fresh, local produce, which is used at The Gunyah Restaurant. The Paperbark camp provides a great excuse for a quick break from Sydney.
Visit paperbarkcamp.com.au for more information.
If a NSW luxury getaway is not feasible, then here are our picks for clamping around New Zealand and Australia. But be warned – if you’re at all budget-conscious than we suggest you stick to the old tent, foam mat and gas cooker option.
Wildlife lovers: Bamurru Plains, Kakadu National Park, Australia
Outback experience: Wilpena Pound Resort, South Australia
Riverside retreat: Nightfall Camp, Lamington National Park, Australia
Island getaway: Fossil Bay Lodge, Waiheke Island, New Zealand
Forest adventure: Highland Forest Retreat, Kauri Coast, New Zealand
