lifestyle
COMFY UNDER CANVAS
For reluctant campers after a little luxury in their lives , glamping in Glamogan could prove an ideal alternative to the typical camping kerfuffle . Gareth Ludkin finds out more .
Whilst camping purists may snort at the suggestion of glamorous camping , over recent years the multi-million pound camping industry has been adapting to our ever-changing wills , desires and needs with a huge variety of alternative camping products and concepts to help make life just that little bit more comfortable under canvas . Targeted at those who may have avoided camping in the past , glamping is a major part of this new luxury camping movement , and more and more companies have been popping up in the UK to satiate our collective yearning for comfort , luxury and sometimes a little bit of indulgence . Of course , for many of us – and I include myself in this – camping just isn ’ t camping without the panic of leaky tents , rocks under roll mats or misplaced matches , and whilst I may eagerly anticipate an unpredictable night tucked up in a sleeping bag whilst the typically inclement weather threatens to blown a hole through the tent , there are just as many apprehensive campers who yearn for many of the home comforts glamping has to offer . “ I set up Goodyhoo Glamping because of my love for being outdoors ,” explains Ginnie Bateman , owner of Goodyhoo Glamping , based at the excellent four-star Heritage Coast Campsite at Monknash in the Vale Of Glamorgan . “ I wanted to provide an experience for people who are anti-campers to stay in a luxury tent and try and convert them into happy glampers ,” adds Ginnie , who kindly offered me the chance to spend
BUZZ 44 a night in one of her wonderful bell tents in order to experience for myself what glamping is all about . Goodyhoo Glamping promises to take all the hassle out of camping with the added promise of a fully-furnished canvas bell tent complete with bed , furniture and an overwhelming abundance of cosy blankets and cushions . We arrived on a welcomingly warm day to find the tent already prepared for us , complete with our names on a slate chalkboard on the outside . With everything already set up , we were immediately able to relax in comfort without the thought of having to battle with tent pegs and frustratingly futile blow-up mattresses , and with beanbags and an outdoor mat included , we were able to recline outside and enjoy the sun before venturing off to explore the surrounding countryside . Ginnie clearly takes great pleasure in decorating her tents with cute furniture , candles and individual touches to create an unquestionably romantic snug for a couple to spend an evening or a few days . You can even request champagne on arrival and specific decorations to add your own special touch . As Ginnie explains , “ I think there are sturdy robust campers out there that actually enjoy the challenge of traditional camping . I wanted to offer the not so dedicated camper and also people who have never camped before an opportunity to experience camping without all the hard work . By paying that little bit extra you get to really enjoy the freedom of being outdoors with the added luxuries like sleeping in real beds .”
Situated just 10 minutes from Monknash beach , we were able to stroll from the campsite in the afternoon sun all the way down to the incredible heritage coastline and striking Monknash beach . On such a warm summer ’ s day it ’ s hard to imagine a better place in the world to relax , swim and soak up the best of the scant summer sun . The campsite ’ s location is perfectly suited for those who enjoy walks in the countryside , a little peace and quiet , and the promise of an excellent pub or two along the way . Walk 500 yards from the campsite and you ’ ll find yourself at the quaint Plough And Harrow pub with all its country charm , first-rate grub and fine selection of beer , ales and cider . From here it ’ s not too far by car or bus to the beautiful village of Llantwit Major and its surrounding area . Glamping may not be for everyone , but a night spent in the cosy bed makes for a comfortable hassle free alternative for anyone who ’ s eager to get out into the countryside without having to worry about packing enough toilet roll , forgetting the tent pegs , or losing your sleeping bag . Goodyhoo Glamping look after all the important details whilst also offering an extra bit of luxury , and at £ 89- £ 99 a night it ’ s a worthwhile investment for romantic couples , reluctant campers and even hardened adventurers who fancy a night without all the faff .
Info : 07581 716 682 info @ goodyhooglamping . co . uk www . goodyhooglamping . co . uk