Where to go glamping in Victoria

Want to get up close to nature, but not too close? These glamping getaways combine all the comforts of a luxe hotel with the thrill of the great outdoors

By Rose Johnstone Posted: Thursday November 3 2016

The glamping (glamorous camping) movement has well and truly made it to Victoria, with luxe camping businesses popping up all over the state in scenic locations. This summer, you could wake up in a beautiful canvas tent to ocean views, switch off to the sounds of wild animals or head up to the mountains. All of these glamping options offer comfortable beds and all sorts of fun extras that you'd find in a fancy hotel. For more short getaway options, check out our top five getaways from Melbourne.

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Five great glamping experiences

Phillip Island Glamping

Best for: Waking up to ocean views

Just 90 minutes from Melbourne is a little island famous for its natural beauty: beaches, hiking and of course, penguins. What better way to embrace it all than by camping, where you’ll tread lightest? Phillip Island Glamping takes all the work out of camping: you book the spot, and they’ll set up a beautiful canvas bell tent, complete with an air mattress and bedding, towels, kitchen appliances and even outdoor table and chairs.

Werribee Open Range Zoo

Best for: Switching off to the sounds of wild animals

Sometimes, it’s easy to forget that giraffes, lions, hippos and meerkats live peacefully 45 minutes from the CBD. What’s more, Werribee Open Range Zoo offers animal-lovers the chance to sleep over 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 accomodation includes dinner and drinks, a guided night walk and marshmallows by an evening campfire.

Werribee South

Happy Glamper

Best for: Escaping to a seaside retreat

Pristine beaches, famous wineries and lush hiking tracks await visitors to the Mornington Peninsula; but we reckon you’ll find it hard to leave the campsite that Happy Glamper will set up in time for your arrival. These glamping gurus make every experience feel personal, with colourful bunting, fresh linen, board games and books and magazines. If you’re not a tent person, then they also have a vintage Airstream or restored ’50s caravan named ‘Miss Myrtle’.

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Cosy Tents

Best for: Unwinding in Victoria’s spa capital

Here in a serene camping spot in the Macedon Ranges, you'll wake up to the sounds of birds and the breeze through 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.

St Jerome's: the Hotel

Best for: Staycationing like a pro

Last year, Jerome Borazio (yes, the St Jerome of Laneway Festival fame) covered the concrete roof of Melbourne Central with AstroTurf, installed 20 bell tents and filled them with all sorts of modern conveniences: aircons, heaters, queen-sized beds, tablets hooked up to TV streaming services and luxe skin products. It’s a staycation like no other; one where you can explore the city by day and eat Grill’d sliders and Messina gelato by night.

Melbourne