15 of the Most Amazing Glamping Experiences in Australia
Ikara Safari Camp, Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, SA
1/16The vastness of Wilpena Pound conjures a quiet brand of adventure, making it the perfect site to set up camp in safari-style tents that can accommodate everyone from reconnecting couples to lively families. Go all-out and book the Adventure in Style package, which includes a scenic flight for two above this natural amphitheatre.
Tent on a Hill, McLaren Vale, SA
2/16Sip fine red wine while watching kangaroos graze as the sun sets over McLaren Vale’s rolling farmland and grapevines, before retiring to a bell tent complete with luxury linens and an ensuite. The next day, follow up with a cycle around nearby wineries and lunch at one of the region’s restaurants.
Image credit: Mayumi Iwasaki
Bubbletent Australia, Capertee Valley, NSW
3/16An off-grid dome camping experience like no other, this trio of translucent “bubbles” overlook the second-largest canyon in the world. The precise location remains a secret until you book but the Virgo tent is the pick of the three, with an outdoor wood-fired hot tub, a telescope and a love swing.
The Hideaway, Cabarita Beach, NSW
4/16A stay in one of these brand-new cotton-canvas bell tents is the most immersive way to experience Cabarita (named the best beach of 2019) on NSW’s far North Coast. Each tent is filled with luxe neutral furnishings and Koala-brand beds, augmented by stylish communal areas inside repurposed shipping containers.
Nightfall, Lamington National Park, Qld
5/16Sleeping just four couples at a time and fully catered with fresh, organic meals served around the camp fire, Nightfall is camping on another level – think a massage in your safari tent, a private yoga class by a waterfall or a romantic dinner for two beside the creek.
Truffle Lodge, Gretna, Tas
6/16Filled with distinctive touches such as handmade wooden baths, vintage rugs and leather sofas, these expansive riverfront tents on the banks of the Derwent River in Tasmania are five-star indulgence with a bush soul. There’s even a communal lodge, where guests can gather for meals, drinks or chats by the fire.
The Inverloch Glamping Co, Gippsland, Vic
7/16Set in landscaped bushland, these three exquisite and evocatively named bell tents – Anderson’s Let, Salty Mutton, Honey & Coffee – feature ensuite cabins, a copper shower and a hammock perfect for stargazing. As well as the picturesque Victorian coastline, the charming towns of Meeniyan and Fish Creek are a short drive away.
Mile End Glamping, Margaret River region, WA
8/16Wake up to sweeping valley views from the comfort of a king-sized bed in light-filled domes that also come with their own bathroom, kitchen and remote-controlled gas fire. Everything from gourmet meals to art classes can be organised – if you can tear yourself away from the spa bath on your private deck.
Paperbark Camp, Woollamia, NSW
9/16Yes, Jervis Bay has world-renowned beaches but there are stunning national parks to explore, too. Nestled in a nature reserve, these canvas tents have raised sites that hug the bush, wraparound decking – ideal for secluded sundowners – and an onsite restaurant surrounded by gums, all set to the sweet soundtrack of native birds.
Longitude 131°, Yulara, NT
10/16White tent sails pop against vermilion desert sands at one of the country’s most atmospheric accommodation offerings. Take in an unforgettable Uluru sunrise from a Luxury Tent (hardly camping) or Dune Pavilion; amenities include a fire-pit-adorned balcony, a turndown service and a private plunge pool, depending on your room type at Longitude 131°.
Sal Salis, Ningaloo Reef, WA
11/16This eco retreat’s spacious tents are set amid sand dunes that shoulder glittering Ningaloo Reef. And there’s not a swag in sight – just crisply-made jarrah beds and rustic bathrooms with views across the windswept coastal wilderness. Rates include meals, drinks from a select open bar, guided activities and equipment and more.
Discovery Rottnest Island, WA
12/16Rottnest Island is a daytripper’s paradise but there’s a decidedly different feel once the sun goes down. Enjoy the icing-sugar sands without the crowds by staying overnight in an eco tent. Standard tents come with an ensuite bathroom and deck, while deluxe versions include extras such as walk-in wardrobes and kitchenettes.
Dreaming@HomeBillabong, Kakadu, NT
13/16Picture 20 elegant, eco-friendly and permanent canvas tents nestled beneath a canopy of eucalypts. Part of Kakadu National Park’s central Cooinda Lodge complex, the tents – designed for both couples and families – feature artwork and weaving by Indigenous artists, air conditioning and decks for gazing at the starry night sky.
Ketchup’s Bank Glamping, Cannon Creek, Qld
14/16The Scenic Rim’s stunning views are immediately soothing. Inside the tents, there’s more relaxation to come – Bluetooth speakers, a coffee and tea bar and a plush bed signal that this is not your average camping experience. Guests can also order in-room hampers (with local goodies) to complete the indulgence.
Image credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Bruny Island Long Weekend, Tas
15/16A welcome reward for a multi-day trek on ruggedly beautiful Bruny Island, the glamping accommodation offered as part of this Tasmanian Walking Company package ensures guests won’t have to rough it. Hikers retire on king-sized beds laid with top-quality linen. And those oysters? They’re free, local and bottomless.