Experience the thrill of the great outdoors while still enjoying creature comforts with these glamping spots and tiny houses
LessThis is glamping as it should be – that is, as far removed from camping as possible (it even features a luxe freestanding bathtub). Arrive while there's still enough daylight to check out the impressive six hectares of gardens that feature everything from glassy secret lakes to curious goats.
Sometimes it’s easy to forget that giraffes, lions, hippos and meerkats live peacefully just 45 minutes from the CBD. What’s more, Werribee Open Range Zoo offers animal lovers the chance to have a sleepover in a tented safari lodge. Get up at dawn and head out to your own private balcony – the perfect vantage point to watch beautiful beasts wake up on the African savannah. Your accommodation includes dinner and drinks, a guided night walk and marshmallows by an evening campfire.
Bell tents are the done thing when it comes to glamping, but Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park has upped the ante by adding decked-out safari tents. Located right in the middle of Grampians National Park, these tents have canvas walls but are filled with handmade furniture that makes it feel a little more like apartment-living than camping. There’s an outdoor deck, a barbecue and even a kitchenette if you’re keen on prepping your own food.
These bell tents comfortably fit two people and they’re hella cosy with a split system for year-round comfort. Cute fixings including a chimenea (outdoor fireplace), a private outdoor copper shower and a grass picnic area to lounge on. If the tents aren’t available, you can also book into Inverloch Glamping’s beach cabins.
Here in a serene camping spot in the Macedon Ranges, you'll wake up to the sounds of birds and the breeze through the gum trees. Open the flap of your large canvas tent and you’ll find a box filled with milk, bread and fruit. After breakfast, all of the Daylesford region is yours to explore; treat yourself to a massage at one of the town’s many spas, or soak into the natural mineral waters of the nearby Hepburn Bathhouse.
Balgownie Estate is recognised as one of Australia's premium vineyards. Its homestead includes seven luxe suites to stay in, which are both contemporary and stylish – but we suggest heading outside. Outside there are 15 glamping tents set up which have you planted right at the edge of the vineyard. Each tent is fitted with queen size beds and linen, split system air conditioning, a minibar fridge and tea and coffee facilities.
Situated mere minutes from one of Phillip Island’s best beaches, the Sheltered Glamping Co has set up a number of beautiful bell tents and safari tents for visitors to kick back in. They’re furnished with plush bedding as well as heating and fans for the colder months. The Phillip Island Winery is close by, as is the famous Penguin Parade so you’re not too far from the island’s main attractions.