Where to go glamping in Victoria

This place puts the "glam" in glamping – think heating as well as heated terrazzo flooring, a walk-in wardrobe and exquisite décor. Whatever they saved by erecting tents instead of building the accommodation from scratch, the reinvested in the tents' interiors. Better yet – when all the day bathers head home for the evening, you get the place to yourself, with 24-hour access to hot springs by starlight (with a drink in hand, if you want), and dinner and breakfast at the lovely restaurant. How good.

Best for: relaxing after a day spent soaking in the hot springs.

Combining the luxury of glamping and the magic of nature, at these new bubble-shaped retreats situated near the picturesque Wilsons Promontory you can gaze at a sky full of stars while staying warm in a comfy bed. Despite being immersed in the outdoors, you can still expect plenty of indoor comforts: heating and cooling, lush linens, a kitchenette, a decked-out bathroom and even a barbecue. Whether you're a keen stargazer or simply want to experience a unique overnight stay, it makes for a truly magical evening.

Best for: gazing up at the stars while snuggling with someone special

Mirador Springs isn't all that far from the M1. But in the short, winding distance between the highway turn-off and the blessedly well-signposted retreat, you'll go from flat farmland to a mountain of densely wooded eucalyptus forest punctuated by laughing kookaburras and warbling maggies. This is glamping as it should be – that is, as far removed from camping as possible (it even features a luxe freestanding bathtub). Arrive while there's still enough daylight to check out the impressive six hectares of gardens that feature everything from glassy secret lakes to curious goats.

Best for: exploring acres of fairytale gardens

Getaway Glamping (formerly known as Phillip Island Glamping) takes all the work out of camping: you book the spot, and they’ll set up a beautiful canvas bell tent, complete with an air mattress and bedding, towels, kitchen appliances and even an outdoor table and chairs. The company is now based on the Mornington Peninsula, but can set up one of its tents anywhere up to 30kilometres from Mornington.

Best for: when you want to pick your own campsite

Sometimes it’s easy to forget that giraffes, lions, hippos and meerkats live peacefully just 45 minutes from the CBD. What’s more, Werribee Open Range Zoo offers animal lovers the chance to have a sleepover in a tented safari lodge. Get up at dawn and head out to your own private balcony – the perfect vantage point to watch beautiful beasts wake up on the African savannah. Your accommodation includes dinner and drinks, a guided night walk and marshmallows by an evening campfire. 

Best for: switching off to the sounds of wild animals

Pristine beaches, famous wineries and lush hiking tracks await visitors to the Mornington Peninsula. Experience it all with a stay at a campsite that Happy Glamper will set up in time for your arrival. These glamping masters make every experience feel personal, with colourful bunting, fresh linen, board games and books and magazines. Choose from a regular bell tent or a rounder, yurt-like lotus bell tent. Or go all-out and opt for the huge emperor bell tent.

Best for: escaping to a seaside retreat

Bell tents are the done thing when it comes to glamping, but Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park has upped the ante by adding decked-out safari tents. Located right in the middle of the Grampians National Park, these tents have canvas walls but are filled with handmade furniture that makes it feel a little more like apartment living than camping. There’s a barbecue and even a kitchenette if you’re keen on prepping your own food. Our pick is the five-person safari tent which has a king bed, a single bed and a bunk bed.

Best for: groups or families who want to glamp together

The seaside town of Inverloch is the perfect spot to base yourself to explore South Gippsland. If you’re keen to embrace the great outdoors, you should book into one of the most glamorous glamping set-ups in the state at Inverloch Glamping. These bell tents comfortably fit two people and they’re hella cosy with a split system for year-round comfort. Cute fixings include a chimenea (outdoor fireplace), a private outdoor copper shower and a grass picnic area to lounge on. If the tents aren’t available, you can also book into Inverloch Glamping’s beach cabins. 

Best for: lighting the fire and shooting the shit with friends as the sun goes down

Many Australians have fond memories of summer vacations at holiday parks. They're often in a great location, plus have a sense of community and loads of amenities for all ages (everything from tennis courts and board games to pools, mini golf and the famed jumping pillows). These days some holiday parks, like Big4 Taggerty, also have glamping tents you can stay in. Choose from large safari-style tents to powered bell tents with outdoor decks.

Best for: the convenience and amenities of a holiday park, with the bells and whistles of glamping

Balgownie Estate in Bendigo is the region's oldest working winery. Its homestead includes seven luxe suites to stay in, which are both contemporary and stylish – but we suggest heading outside. Nestled among the vines are glamping tents that offer the perfect balance of luxury and nature. Each tent is fitted with queen size beds and linen, split system air conditioning, a minibar fridge and tea and coffee facilities. Step outside and there’s your very own outdoor lounge setting, too.

Best for: those who like to wake up to the smell of vino

Here in a serene camping spot in the picturesuque Daylesford and Macedon Ranges region, you'll wake up to the sounds of birds and the breeze through the gum trees. Open the flap of your large canvas tent and you’ll find a box filled with milk, bread and fruit. After breakfast, all of Victoria's spa country is yours to explore; treat yourself to a massage at one of the town’s many spas, or soak into the natural mineral waters of the nearby Hepburn Bathhouse. 

Best for: unwinding in an adults-only environment

Situated mere minutes from one of Phillip Island’s best beaches, the Sheltered Glamping Co has set up a number of beautiful bell tents and safari tents for visitors to kick back in. They’re furnished with plush bedding as well as heating and fans for the colder months. Phillip Island Winery is close by, as is the famous Penguin Parade so you’re not too far from the island’s main attractions.

Best for: those who believe any holiday should include beach access