Glamping Abroad in 2021 – Part One
2020 wasn’t a great year for holidays abroad, with quarantine required on return from many countries on a list which changed frequently. Some people were able to get away for an overseas break, working from home on their return or taking advantage of the air corridors which were in place between some countries. It’s hard to know exactly what the Covid situation will be this summer, but it’s reasonable to expect that with the knowledge gained over the last year and the vaccination programme in full swing, it will hopefully be easier to go on a foreign holiday, once the pandemic is under control and people have had their vaccine.
Europe has some lovely glamping options, and whether you drive, or fly and rent a car at your destination there are some stunning locations to choose from. In France you’re spoilt for choice due to the range of terrains found in the country, so whether you want lakeside, forest or mountains there’s something for you. The stunning La Taillede is in the Pyrenees and has gorgeous views. There is a yurt with fire pit, outdoor kitchen and splash pool, situated on a deck, handmade with wood from the surrounding forest. La Taillede has a special focus on sustainability and environmental friendliness, so it’s ideal for green thinkers and people interested in the self-sufficient lifestyle. As well as the yurt there are four gite; two of which incorporate areas carved out of the mountainous rock which had been used by humans for centuries before being turned into holiday accommodation.
If it’s a tree house you’re after then Chateau Gauthie, with two treetop hideaways, is an amazing choice. With a swimming pool and hot tub shared by the tree houses, and oodles of hand carved features to admire this tree house holiday is perfect for families. There are walking trails nearby and you could even hire bikes, for a day trip around this beautiful part of France. If you’re into medieval history then you’ll love the little villages and churches tucked away in this region, and what better way to unwind after a hard day’s touring than by sipping wine in the hot tub?
For a romantic couple’s getaway you would be hard pushed to find something more magical than the Chateau Birac, a floating wooden “castle” on its own lake in the Dordogne. There are sun decks all around the accommodation, so you can catch a few rays at any time of day. A small rowing boat allows you to explore the lake, perhaps even with a picnic and a bottle of the local wine? A private hot tub on the deck makes for the perfect place to relax of an evening before you retire into the sumptuous interior. The interior is finished to a very high standard, this place is a boutique hotel on the water, and the views are so stunning they simply take your breath away.
To get an authentic French experience a roulotte, the traditional French gypsy caravan, is unbeatable. Many of these old structures have been restored to provide glamping accommodation, but Violette in Aude, with its riotous colours and equally vivacious owner, makes for an artistic holiday you won’t forget in a hurry. The caravan has a double bed and loo, with a fully equipped bathroom nearby, next to the swimming pool.
Join us for part 2 where we look further afield.
