Camping is finally on the rise in France and the folks at Glamping Hub have taken notice. Based in Seville, Spain, the outdoor accommodations company says its neighbor to the north has become one of its fastest growing markets.
Glamping Hub focuses on unique, higher end outdoor experiences. It currently has 338 accommodations in France, according to partnerships manager Amy Ahlblad.
“It’s one of our trending marketplaces,” she said. “We’re noticing a lot of demand from countries outside of France.”
With camping seen as potentially an even more popular choice for the summer vacation period following the coronavirus lockdowns in France, the tourism industry is hoping this will be seen as a safe and attractive way for people to get out of their homes and travel for a few days.
To be listed on Glamping Hub, an accommodation has to meet a couple of basic criteria: Be outside the city center and be surrounded by nature. “The idea is to be secluded in the heart of nature,” Ahlblad said.
This style of camping is becoming increasingly popular as people want to escape urban life but can sometimes be intimidated by the logistics or the amount of gear they think they need.
“People are looking to get out into nature,” Ahlblad said. “But the process of going camping requires a lot of equipment. And people spend a lot of time planning and making sure they don’t forget something. So glamping appeals to these types of travelers who want to be out in nature. They can just go.”
The following are 7 of what Ahlblad describes as Glamping Hub’s “most unique accommodations located in France”:
Star-gazing bubbles in Labastide de Penne
These transparent domes in France each have a terrace, a garden, a round bed, dry toilet and a shared a Jacuzzi and shower area. Located in the Occitanie region, it boasts a wild landscape that is close to the valleys of Tarn and Garonne. Toulouse is only a one-hour drive away. Starting at €185.38 per night.
Nature Domes near Chambery
This property near Chambery has three domes available to rent. Sitting on wooden terraces, they have broad views with room for 2 adults and 3 children. There’s an electric stove for chilly nights, a bathroom in a guesthouse, and shared lounge. Breakfast in the guesthouse kitchen is included. Starting at €207 per night.
Romantic Tree House in Guyonvelle
This tree house is located northeast of Dijon. Perched high above the forest floor, the location affords great access to hiking trails. Cozy enough for two adults, there is a separate bathroom with a dry toilet and shower. Starting at €104 per night.
Spa Tree House Cabins in Labastide De Penne
Located about an hour north of Toulouse, this tree house also features its own Nordic bath hot tub. In addition, there’s a kitchenette and a private bathroom with a shower. There’s also room for two children and two single beds. There is a shared swimming pool nearby and guests can rent electric bikes. Starting at €322 per night.
Charming Yurt in Créchets
Located in the Pyrenees foothills near Toulouse, these yurts can welcome 4 people with a double bed and two single beds. There is a bathroom with a shower inside. Outside, there is a deck with a hot tub. On the grounds, there is a shared swimming pool, a trampoline, and wi-fi. The decoration has a Mongolian theme and there are animals on the grounds such as goats and chickens. Breakfast included. Starting at €167 per night.
Tree Houses near Grenoble
These tree house rentals are located near Grenoble in southeast France. Each sleep 2 adults and 2 children. There is a private bathroom in a separate guesthouse. Inside the tree cabins there is an electric fireplace. Outside, there is patio for views of the surroundings. Breakfast is included. Starting at €207 per night.
Floating Cabin near Avignon
This floating cabin sits on the banks of Lac de la Lionne near Avignon and is only accessible by boat! There is room for 2 people inside and it has a full bathroom. Outside there is a deck and Nordic hot tub. Starting at €299 per night.
