For decades the world has been full of two types of people. Those who like camping and those who don’t.
Whilst the thought of sleeping in a tent and singing ‘gin gang goolie’ round campfire at night might have prejudiced many for years, in recent times the concept of ‘glamping’ has changed some opinions.
A portmanteau of the worlds ‘glamorous’ and ‘camping’ this option provides an alternative, more upscale accommodation option for those whose idea of roughing it is a 3 star hotel without WI-Fi.
Essentially glamping allows you to enjoy and explore nature, without leaving the creature comforts of home behind.
For want of a better phrase it is posh camping. A form of accommodation that sees you sleeping on a proper bed within a spacious tent, that is decorated with the kind of furnishings you would have in your bedroom.
In the beautiful region of the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria glamping has really taken off in recent years.
If you have caught the bug, or at least had your interest piqued, here is a selection of four fabulous glamping sites in the Mornington Peninsula to consider.
Iluka Retreat
Set within a 15-hectare property in the Red Hill South region of the Mornington Peninsula, the Iluka Retreat is a lovely spot for first time glampers.
Overlooking a lush valley and a picturesque lake, the retreat is a great base for exploring the fabulous local beaches, fantastic cellar doors and award winning wineries that grace the area. It is also close to the surf town of Shoreham which has a nice selection of restaurants, cafes and shops too.
Embracing an attractive rustic-chic style, the canvas bell tents are furnished with bunting, as well as a number of rugs, blankets and cushions. They also have a small private deck too, whilst the sleeping area has enough space to include two single mattresses should you need them.
Located an 80 minute drive from Melbourne, all glamping guests share a camp bathroom and kitchen, whilst there is also a warm timber lodge that can accommodate up to 60 people.
You can even hire a fire pit as well if you fancy toasting marshmallows.
Address: 20 Shoreham Rd, Shoreham, Vic, 3916
Peninsula Hot Springs
For a real taste of glamping luxury head on over to the Peninsula Hot Springs.
Best known for its natural geothermal mineral springs, this outstanding day spa facility has recently added glamping accommodation to its impressive range of amenities, and in no half measures either.
Nestled in the tranquil surroundings of the hot springs, each of their tents sleep a maximum of two guests. They come with an impressive ensuite, a king-sized bed, custom-made furniture, a walk-in robe and a private deck area. They even have thermally heated concrete floors to keep you warm during the winter months.
The facility offers three different types of glamping set-up including with a view of the lake, with a view of the garden, or by a secluded pavilion, to suit all preferences.
In addition they include a range of over 70 bathing and wellness experiences, inspired from around the world in your stay. This includes the use of their day spa, plunge pools, saunas, bathing pools and reflexology walk. They even have a lovely cafe that offers a wide range of food and beverage choices too.
Address: 140 Springs lane, Fingal, Vic, 3939
Blue Range Estate Wines Glamping
Offering a sensational glamping experience in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula Hinterland, the opportunity to stay the night at the Blue Range Estate Wines is one all wine lovers should take.
An adults-only facility, that is set within the picturesque grounds of the winery, the venue offers 10 glamping tents. All of which overlooks Port Phillip Bay from a vantage point of 300 metres above sea level.
Taking the form of spacious and very comfortable bell tents, they are furnished with a quality range of amenities including a queen-sized bed that comes with 1000 thread count sheets. They also feature a coffee table, two armchairs and even solar power for charging your mobile phone or laptop.
Guests do have to share a cooking and dining area which houses two barbecues, as well as a modern bathroom that is uniquely accommodated within a shipping container!
A stay here puts in you close proximity to some of the peninsula’s best beaches and coastal towns. It also enables you to try a wonderful range of wines including the estate’s signature Pinot Grigio, as well as enjoy a meal at the winery’s acclaimed restaurant. Which presents a fantastic menu, as well as exceptional views of the surrounding hills, vineyards and sea.
Address: Blue Range Estate Wines, 155 Gardens Road, Rosebud, Vic, 3939
Happy Glamper
If you’ve decided to give glamping a go, but are not too bothered about your destination, then its well worth checking out Happy Glamper.
Specialising in customised glamping micro-adventures specifically within the Mornington Peninsula, the company make the process very easy for you – all you have to do is choose where, when and how and they will do the rest.
Offering three different bell tent sizes, which range from four to six metres in length and also includes their extremely spacious Lotus Belle tents, this style of accommodation can seat up to five people.
Very deluxe in appearance, the company do everything for you, including pitching and styling the tent and also packing it down and removing it. All within one fixed price.
The tents also come with a wide range of amenities, features and furnishings, including the likes of beds, chairs, outdoor and indoor mats, decorative bunting, an LED lantern and bath towels. They can even provide you with board games, books and magazines for your stay as well as a combination lock for the tent door.
Other optional extras can include a bar fridge, string lights, power points heaters and picnic kits.
The only thing not included in the price is the cost of booking the campsite. The company encourage the glampers to do this, to ensure they find the best location – most typically near a beach or lake – for them.
If you need some ideas, the Happy Glampers provides some excellent suggestions on their website.