More travelers than ever before are deciding that tourism can and should be about making a difference in the world. Not only is it a way of taking a much needed break from the hustle and bustle of everyday city life, but travel can also be part of a broader push to get back to nature, unplug from the digital world, and commit to sustainable living.
With that in mind, it’s no surprise that glamping continues to be one of the most captivating and unique trends emerging in the vacation sector. It’s a pretty universal feeling to want a little more luxury when you go camping, whether it be a hot shower, a hairdryer, or even just a fluffy pillow—and that’s exactly what glamping (“glamorous camping”) aims to provide! But these five-star touches, from high thread count sheets to sumptuous hot tubs, don’t have to mean traveling in any less of an eco-friendly way. Quite often, these glamping rentals are all designed with nature in mind just as much as comfort and style. From tipis to tree houses and everything in between, Glamping Hub is here to show you nine of the most eco-friendly (and dazzlingly cool) glamp sites from across the world! Be warned, wanderlust may follow…
1. Eco-Friendly Wellness Retreat Surrounded by Medicinal Gardens, Bali
It’s hard to think of eco-tourism and not instantly picture the dense, tropical rainforests and white-sanded beaches of Bali. This scenic part of Indonesia is home to medicinal tea and herb gardens, in which you will find this tranquil eco-resort. Not only are the structures built out of recycled timber materials, but the on-site restaurant also offers up a locally-sourced, organic, and raw food-inspired menu designed by leading Balinese chefs and nutritionists.
2. Solar-Powered Yurt on Horse Farm in Hudson Valley, New York
Completely powered by a huge solar panel, this funky, Mongolian-inspired yurt proves that it’s possible to unplug and get off the grid even just a short drive from the bright lights of New York City. A working, 27-acre horse farm provides the setting for this unique rental, ensuring that nature is never far from hand and that the stress of the city is miles away.
3. Tiny House on a Private Beach in Northern Greece
The tiny house phenomenon is one of the most curious and captivating trends in the sustainable living movement. By downsizing our abodes, and only living with those things that are essential, we can truly make a difference to our carbon footprint. The best thing, however, is that these tiny houses are also way more trendy, stylish, and chic than their regular-sized brethren! This beachside home in northern Greece is no exception, cleverly designed with all your basic needs in one compact package.
Related Post: Is Eco-Tourism Really Environmentally Friendly?
4. Tree House Tower with Solar Power on the Rogue River, Oregon
Having looked at the photos of this tree house in Oregon, you’re probably already trying to book your next vacation here! The views of the rolling hills of rural Oregon by the Rogue River are simply magical, and spending the night up above the treeline is surely going to make for unforgettable memories. There’s space for up to four glampers here, and with solar power to help keep things running, this is the perfect place to have an eco-friendly adventure with the whole family.
5. Unique Eco-Pod Accommodation near Kaikoura on the South Island of New Zealand
The South Island of New Zealand is, thanks to the Lord of the Rings movies, famous throughout the world as a place of unparalleled natural beauty, diversity, and color. And with views like those on offer at this stunning eco-pod near Kaikoura, it’s not hard to see why. The entirety of this accommodation, from floor to ceiling, is constructed out of glass, so the views are never far from sight. The hosts of this beautiful destination are also able to provide a locally-sourced food basket upon request, to truly get in touch with the land.
Related Post: 10 Wanderlust-Worthy Eco-Resorts and Green Retreats For Your Bucket List
6. Safari Tent Constructed from Recycled Materials near San Diego, California
Guests can really get into the rustic charm of glamping when they stay at this beautiful, safari-inspired tent just outside of San Diego. The entire accommodation is built to reflect the natural environment of this scenic part of southern California, with the logs of the structure coming from native cedar trees, and local, handmade furniture.
7. Cabin on a Yoga Retreat near Austin, Texas
Designed and constructed by renowned ‘living architecture’ pioneer Marley Porter, this quirky cabin rental near Austin also comes with its own organic herb garden, natural composting sphere, and organic toiletries.
8. Yurt Rentals on Eco-Friendly Site in Wales, U.K.
The verdant and beautiful countryside of Wales is on full display when you stay in these fantastic and cozy yurt accommodations near Powys. All of the fresh water for the site comes from the mountain springs found nearby, and the heating is all supplied by wood-burning fireplaces inside each yurt, fueled by sustainably-sourced and local timber.
9. Off-the-grid Cave Accommodation in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales, Australia
Yes, you read that correctly: this particular glamping accommodation is built into a cave! Not only that, it offers fantastic views out over the dense woodlands and majestic mountains of the Blue Mountains National Park, making for a truly exhilarating experience. A slow-combustion fireplace keeps things warm in winter, while the noise of the outside world is far, far away.
If these glamping accommodations have inspired you to have your own one-of-a-kind adventure, head over to glampinghub.com for more unique rentals in nature.
Want more eco travel tips? Check out this post with travel advice from four popular zero waste advocates.
