SPACE: THE FINAL FRONTIER

 

GETTING AWAY FROM IT ALL NO LONGER MEANS COLD BEANS AND SOGGY CANVAS. IN FACT, CAMPING IS NOW SO GLAMOROUS IT EVEN HAS A NEW NAME – GLAMPING!

 

FOR THE FREEDOM OF THE OPEN ROAD

 

The VW camper van has to be the ultimate camping icon, and if you’re secretly harbouring a dream to holiday wherever the road takes you, visit Coolcampervans to hire one of the ’70s original ‘Pop Top’ vans.

In the UK you’re still allowed to park anywhere that’s not signposted or blocking a road, so you could be having your early morning stretch through the legendary open roof, well – anywhere you fancy! What’s more, your van comes with a TV, DVD and PlayStation.

From £325 per week (01332 661342; Coolcampervans.com).

 

FOR RETRO CHIC

 

At the foothills of the Pyrenees in France is a campsite that’s less trailer trash, and more trailer fash!

Kick back in the Belrepayre site in a retro glam Airstream trailer, complete with its own bathroom, garden and barbecue – not to mention the de rigueur ’60s soft furnishings.

When you’re tired of practising your catalogue poses around the trailer, spend your days walking, cycling, riding, swimming and canoeing (the landscape’s to die for).

At night, retire to your comfy caravan, or sink some beers at the site’s lively bar. The hot tub and massage studio are worth a visit, too.

From £50 per night (00 33 561 681199; Belrepayre.com).

 

FOR A MAGICAL HIDEAWAY

 

It’s never too late to indulge unfulfilled childhood fantasies, and if you’ve always hankered after a secret tree house, you’ll love Kota Cabana at the Château de l’Énclos, France.

Just 20 miles away from Le Mans, home of the famous race circuit, this fully heated wood cabin is hidden 60ft up two ancient sequoia trees, in the grounds of a 19th-century chateau.

Built for two, it has all the grown-up luxuries you need, including a toilet (the shower is at ground level), a canopied double bed and a huge terrace for taking in the views.

There are no cooking facilities, but ring the bell to summon room service (think delicious champagne breakfasts), which is delivered to you using a pulley system.

B&B from £105 per night (00 33 243 921785; Chateau-enclos.com).

 

FOR SPIRITUAL ENLIGHTENMENT

 

Getting away from it all is about more than distance at the Tipi Village in Devon.

This unique spot, where tipis take the place of tents, is ideal for inner contemplation and all-round relaxation.

Campers attend eclectic residential courses like shamanic trance dance and soul hunting.

From £230 for a long weekend (01404 871639; Tipi-village-eco-holiday.co.uk).

 

FOR BOHEMIAN ESCAPISM

 

They may be the traditional homes of Mongolian nomads, but these yurts are pitched somewhere far more hospitable – in Andalusia, southern Spain.

Set among orange and tangerine trees, the traditional wood and canvas tents offer a perfect base for exploring this unspoilt region.

There are traditional bathroom facilities available, but if you really want to embrace the natural experience, opt for the outside shower and toilet, finished with river stones and eucalyptus walls.

Don’t miss the log-fired sauna, and brace yourself for a dip in the river when you get out.

La Huerta Yurts from £28 per person per night. (00 34 952 117486; Andaluciayurts.com).

 

Words: Amy Harker. Photography: Getty, Digitalrailroad.net, Ian Spratt, Pictures Colour Library

 

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