Australia, with its diverse landscapes ranging from rugged deserts and coastal cliffs to lush rainforests and tranquil beaches, is a country of natural wonders. For those who wish to experience the beauty of the Australian outdoors without sacrificing the luxury of comfort, glamping – glamorous camping – offers an ideal solution. Glamping allows discerning travelers to immerse themselves in the wild while enjoying high-end amenities and services, making it the perfect blend of adventure and luxury. This article delves into Australia’s most exclusive glamping experiences, each offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature in style.
What is Glamping?
Before we dive into Australia’s finest glamping spots, it’s important to understand what glamping entails. Glamping is an evolution of traditional camping, combining the best of both worlds. Rather than setting up a tent, glampers stay in fully equipped, luxurious accommodations. These can include yurts, safari tents, treehouses, and even cabins or pods. The experience is designed for those who love nature but prefer a few extra comforts, such as comfortable beds, stylish decor, and private bathrooms, all nestled in picturesque outdoor settings.
Glamping destinations are often located in remote or exclusive areas, providing guests with privacy, stunning views, and access to activities like wildlife watching, hiking, or star-gazing.
1. Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa, New South Wales
Located in the Greater Blue Mountains, the Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa is an iconic destination for those seeking an exclusive and luxurious glamping experience. This ultra-luxurious resort is nestled within a 7,000-acre conservation reserve and offers 40 spacious, free-standing villas. Although not traditional “glamping” in the sense of tents or yurts, the resort offers an immersive experience with the environment while still providing five-star accommodations.
The Wolgan Valley Resort’s villas are designed with sustainability in mind, blending seamlessly with the rugged beauty of the landscape. The villas feature private pools, fireplaces, and large windows that offer spectacular views of the valley. The resort offers an array of outdoor activities, including guided walks, wildlife watching, mountain biking, and stargazing, along with a full-service spa and fine dining experiences.
This is the ultimate destination for luxury and seclusion in the heart of nature, offering glamping for those who enjoy both extravagance and serenity.
2. Paperbark Camp, New South Wales
Located in the coastal wilderness of Jervis Bay, Paperbark Camp is a true gem for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying a high level of comfort. With tented safari-style accommodations set under a canopy of paperbark trees, the camp offers a unique experience where guests can connect with the wild beauty of the region.
The luxury tents at Paperbark Camp are equipped with comfortable king-sized beds, private en-suite bathrooms, and outdoor decks for relaxation. The camp’s restaurant, The Gunyah, is known for its exquisite fine dining, where guests can enjoy local seafood and fresh produce. Activities at the camp include kayaking, bushwalking, and whale watching, all set against the backdrop of Jervis Bay’s pristine beaches.
Paperbark Camp combines the charm of the Australian bush with the elegance and exclusivity that discerning travelers seek. It’s an idyllic retreat for those seeking an authentic yet comfortable connection with nature.
3. Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island, South Australia
For those seeking an extraordinary glamping experience on one of Australia’s most beautiful and secluded islands, Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island is the perfect choice. Perched on the cliffs of the island’s rugged coastline, this luxury lodge is renowned for its stunning location and exceptional service. The lodge offers eco-friendly, contemporary suites with panoramic views of the Southern Ocean and the surrounding wilderness.
Each suite at Southern Ocean Lodge is designed to harmonize with the natural landscape, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, king-sized beds, and private decks. The property is also known for its world-class spa services, offering massages and treatments inspired by the island’s indigenous plants and natural resources.
The Southern Ocean Lodge is one of Australia’s most prestigious glamping destinations, offering a perfect combination of luxury, seclusion, and natural beauty. The island’s wildlife, including koalas, sea lions, and kangaroos, provides ample opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts, while the lodge’s fine dining and outdoor experiences are sure to satisfy even the most discerning travelers.
4. Emu Bay, Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Located on the tranquil north coast of Kangaroo Island, Emu Bay is another luxury glamping option for those seeking an exclusive and serene escape. Emu Bay is home to the exceptional Eco Retreats, which offers beautifully designed glamping tents with stunning views of the ocean and surrounding wilderness.
Each tent is equipped with top-of-the-line amenities, including comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and kitchenettes for self-catering. The retreat’s proximity to the island’s pristine beaches makes it a perfect location for water-based activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. The region is also known for its rich wildlife, including koalas, sea lions, and numerous bird species.
At Eco Retreats, guests can enjoy the luxury of glamping while feeling at one with nature, thanks to its eco-friendly practices and immersive wilderness experience. The retreat offers a more intimate and secluded atmosphere compared to larger resorts, making it an ideal destination for those seeking privacy and tranquility.
5. Bamurru Plains, Northern Territory
For a truly unique glamping experience, Bamurru Plains in the Northern Territory offers an exclusive and luxurious safari-style camp set on the edge of the Mary River floodplains. This is a wildlife haven, where guests can experience the Australian outback in all its raw beauty. The property offers a series of spacious safari tents, each designed with comfort and privacy in mind.
Bamurru Plains is surrounded by an abundance of wildlife, including buffalo, wild boar, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Guests can participate in guided wildlife safaris, airboat tours, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings of the camp, which is outfitted with modern amenities, including plush bedding, en-suite bathrooms, and private verandas.
Bamurru Plains is perfect for those who wish to experience Australia’s wild and remote Top End in the lap of luxury. Whether on a morning wildlife safari or a sunset cruise, guests are sure to enjoy a one-of-a-kind adventure surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
6. The Byron at Byron Resort & Spa, Byron Bay, New South Wales
Byron Bay, known for its laid-back vibe and stunning beaches, is also home to one of Australia’s most sought-after luxury glamping experiences. The Byron at Byron Resort & Spa offers a sophisticated and serene glamping experience in a rainforest setting, with each tented villa offering the best of both comfort and nature.
While the accommodations at Byron at Byron aren’t traditional glamping tents, the resort offers an elevated version of glamping with spacious suites, lush surroundings, and high-end amenities, including private decks, king-sized beds, and spa bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including yoga classes, beach walks, and spa treatments. The resort’s commitment to sustainability, alongside its proximity to the vibrant town of Byron Bay, makes it the perfect destination for those who want the best of both nature and culture.
7. Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia
Nestled in the stunning Cape Range National Park, Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef offers a one-of-a-kind luxury glamping experience on the edge of the world-famous Ningaloo Reef. This exclusive eco-lodge consists of just 15 luxury tents, offering guests the opportunity to disconnect from the world and immerse themselves in the wild beauty of Western Australia’s coastline.
The tents at Sal Salis are beautifully designed with comfortable bedding, en-suite bathrooms, and private decks that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. Guests can explore Ningaloo Reef, one of the best-preserved coral reefs in the world, through guided snorkeling and diving tours, or enjoy kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding along the pristine beaches.
Sal Salis offers an intimate, off-the-grid glamping experience that is ideal for those seeking luxury and adventure in one of Australia’s most remote and pristine locations.
8. Litchfield Safari Camp, Northern Territory
Located near the Litchfield National Park in the Northern Territory, Litchfield Safari Camp offers an authentic glamping experience in the heart of the Top End. The camp is set in a private, bushland location, surrounded by natural waterfalls, wetlands, and diverse wildlife.
Litchfield Safari Camp offers luxury safari tents equipped with king-sized beds, private bathrooms, and outdoor decks. Guests can enjoy the serene atmosphere of the camp, as well as take part in guided tours to explore the stunning waterfalls, rock pools, and other natural wonders of the area.
The camp offers a blend of comfort and adventure, providing the perfect base for those seeking to explore the Top End’s unique landscapes while enjoying high-end amenities in a secluded setting.
Conclusion
Australia is home to some of the most exclusive and luxurious glamping experiences in the world, offering discerning travelers the chance to enjoy nature in style. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family retreat, or an adventurous escape, Australia’s glamping sites provide a perfect balance of comfort, privacy, and natural beauty. From the rugged landscapes of the Northern Territory to the pristine beaches of New South Wales, these glamping destinations provide an unforgettable way to experience the Australian wilderness without sacrificing luxury. Whether you’re looking to explore wildlife, indulge in fine dining, or simply relax in an idyllic natural setting, these glamping experiences offer something for every traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure in Australia’s most exclusive locations.
Zara Adeyemi