When dreaming of a luxury escape, we are naturally drawn to picturesque beach resorts; chalets covered by snow and surrounded by crisp mountain air; or a bustling city filled with incredible sights to see, and all of the fine cuisines that you could ever desire… But what about when you want to take a step away from the decadence and just be left with yourself and the elements? Arguably, camping would be the answer to this. For those of us who crave the same benefits for the soul and mind that camping allows, but want to do this in style and luxury, we have compiled a list of the ten best luxury glamping retreats. Glamping combines the best elements of a luxury holiday with the peace within nature that is sometimes needed most. It allows people to experience the land of a country in a way which cannot otherwise be done; offering guests the opportunity to fall in love with nature and their surroundings while enjoying a luxurious experience like never before.

Sierra Escape – New South Wales, Australia

A short drive out of the town of Mudgee, travellers can find themselves surrounded by the rolling Australian countryside of New South Wales. Hidden within this vast wine region is a unique experience for travellers to unwind in the infamous outback. Sierra Escape is an award-winning, eco-friendly wellness retreat designed to offer guests tranquillity in all respects. Guests are invited to stay in one of Sierra Escape’s state of the art tents. Designed for luxury glamping and comfort, the tents offer king-sized beds, free-standing outdoor baths, fire pits to cook dinner on and to enjoy on the surrounding decking with a glass of wine from the local area– all whilst stargazing in absolute peace. Surrounded by nothing but the elements and the wildlife, guests are truly immersed in the earthy surroundings of Australia’s vast countryside.

After an evening of relaxation, the days are welcomed with the light of the morning sun and glimpses of the exotic animals of this land: deer, kangaroos and native birds – it’s a sight like no other. Although being an off-grid experience, Sierra Escape offers indulgences and experiences which have further secured the hidden retreat’s exceptional reputation. From horse riding, wine tasting and fine dining, to private yoga classes and full-body massages, the options are endless. Sierra Escapes offers every luxury that could be wished for whilst relaxing in these secret, secluded tents.

Birdbox – Norway

This wilderness retreat encapsulates Scandinavian minimalism within the depths of Norwegian landscape. Each cabin is individually designed and located in a different scenic spot. Surrounded by evergreen trees and the elements of the season, each cabin has a unique experience and view to enjoy. Whether located at the top of a mountain, with spectacular views over the sweeping valleys, or deep within a forest looking through the wildlife to a secluded lake. The cabins are designed to offer the best aspects of minimal living yet within the comfort of a luxury double room.

Lovers of minimalist, sleek design and architecture will be in awe of these little pods. Unlike some of the other options on this top ten luxury glamping list, the Birdboxes do not offer extravagant extras such as spa treatments and gourmet room service. What they offer instead is a very unique experience. This is a different form of ‘luxury’ altogether. Surrounded by nothing but the sublime Norwegian countryside, the isolation provided from the rest of the world’s ongoings is what makes these cabins truly unparalleled and an absolute must for those who are craving solitude and an unsurpassed, private viewing platform.

Treeful Treehouse– Okinawa Island, Japan

Built upon the philosophy of living a balanced life, this eco-friendly resort offers hotel rooms buried within the trees of Okinawa Island. Pioneered by a love for the earth on which everything is built, the rustic treehouses are surrounded by the earthly wonders which Okinawa has to offer, which includes the awe-inspiring Genka river. The river is said to have the clearest waters in Japan and guests are encouraged to appreciate and indulge in its beauty. The treetop bedrooms are picture-perfect spaces for guests to sleep under the stars. Their purpose is not only to allow guests to experience Japan’s beauty but are also fully sustainable and intended as a way to give back to the world and help the environment. This tranquil oasis captures the positive relationship that we can have with the earth and the benefits that each can provide one another with.

Northern Lights Ranch – Finland

Each and every country boasts views which they are particularly proud of, separating and moulding the specific features of one land in contrast to another. Of these, Finland has an abundance of natural beauty and wildlife for travellers to explore. However, once travellers reach the Northerly parts of Finnish Lapland, there is more to discover than merely the spectacles that lay on the earth. Appearing through the night sky in waves of colour: The Northern Lights. For travellers who dream of seeing this spectacular occurrence, the Northern Lights Ranch offers deluxe rooms of comfort and warmth for guests to gaze at the sky in a luxurious sky view cabin. These snow hidden cabins are nothing short of luxury hotel standard – plush double beds, minibars (and the superior cabin offering a hot tub) this icy retreat is the winter wonderland that luxury travellers have been waiting for.

Silent Living – Comporto, Portugal

Born from a family dream of living a simple, peaceful life in the countryside of Portugal, Silent Living offers guests spaces that are intended to feel like a home away from home. The warm land and welcoming spaces offer guests a peaceful way of life in an unfamiliar but beautiful setting. With a choice of houses to stay in, Cabanas No Rio is the hidden retreat that has caught the eye of travellers seeking a unique, luxury glamping experience. Overlooking the Sado River and rural scenery, the idyllic wooden huts are the perfect escape to the country for travellers looking for relaxation and to explore what Portugal has to offer. Guests can go horseback riding along the beach, explore the wildlife and enjoy the local cuisine. However, Cabanas No Rio is a space which can be experienced in solitude and appreciated in its own capacity entirely. The rustic mahogany huts are home to a crisp, white bedroom and immaculate living space and bathroom. Bottom line? This stunning space is the epitome of luxury coming from ‘less is more’.

Each and every location which we have listed above is completely unique, yet equally enticing in its own remarkable way. Exploring the earthy, untouched areas of a country has been something that lovers of luxury travel have been searching for, and we have found them. Here, we have discovered the first half of our Top 10 Hidden Luxury Glamping Retreats. Part two is yet to come and will explore even more hidden gems which will be sure to inspire even those who may have never dreamed that they would want to go camping before.