Where to go glamping in Victoria

Best for: exploring acres of fairy-tale gardens

Mirador Springs isn't all that far from the M1. But in the short, winding distance between the highway turnoff and the blessedly well-signposted retreat, you'll go from flat farmland to a mountain of densely wooded eucalyptus forest punctuated by laughing kookaburras and warbling maggies. This 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.

Best for: groups or families who want to glamp together

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. There are two-person tents but our pick is the five-person safari tent which has a king bed, a single bed and a bunk bed.

Best for: when you want to pick your own campsite

Getaway Glamping (formerly known as 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 an outdoor table and chairs. The company is now based on the Mornington Peninsula and can set up one of its tents anywhere up to 30km from Mornington.

Best for: switching off to the sounds of wild animals

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. 

Best for: escaping to a seaside retreat

Pristine beaches, famous wineries and lush hiking tracks await visitors to the Mornington Peninsula. Experience it all with a stay at a campsite that Happy Glamper will set up in time for your arrival. These glamping masters make every experience feel personal, with colourful bunting, fresh linen, board games and books and magazines. Choose from a regular bell tent or a rounder, yurt-like lotus bell tent. Or go all-out and opt for the huge emperor bell tent.

Best for: relaxing after a day spent soaking in the hot springs

For years the idyllic Mornington Peninsula has provided refuge for Melburnians looking for an accessible and relaxing escape. You can now extend that escape too by booking one of the springs' on-site glamping tents. Tents include a king bed, luxury linens, a heated floor, a private ensuite, breakfast, a room service menu and access to all bathing, bath house activities and wellness experiences. Glampers even get private access to the Amphitheatre Pool between 6pm and 9pm.

Best for: lighting the fire and shooting the shit with friends as the sun goes down

The seaside town of Inverloch is the perfect spot to base yourself to explore South Gippsland. If you’re keen to embrace the great outdoors, you should book into one of the most glamorous glamping setups in the state at Inverloch Glamping. These bell tents comfortably fit two people and they’re hella cosy with a split system for year-round comfort. Cute fixings include 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. 

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 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. 

Best for: the convenience and amenities of a holiday park, with the bells and whistles of glamping

Many Australians have fond memories of summer vacations at holiday parks. They're often in a great location, plus have a sense of community and loads of amenities for all ages (everything from tennis courts and board games to pools, mini golf and the famed jumping pillows). These days some holiday parks, like Big4 Taggerty and Bendigo Ascot also have glamping tents you can stay in. Choose from powered riverfront bell tents in Taggerty, or from luxe miners' tents in Bendigo. 

Best for: those who like to wake up to the smell of vino.

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. Step outside and there’s your very own outdoor lounge setting, too.

Best for: those who believe any holiday should include beach access

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.