Glamping: Try a Different Kind of Getaway

In past centuries, explorers from different countries conquered new continents and discovered uncharted corners of nature. They loved risk, hunting wild animals, and learning about local cultures. Yet, like everyone else, they wanted comfort. Wealthy travelers brought everything they needed to recreate familiar interiors. Servants transported sofas, tents, tables, tableware, and even bed linen. This made it possible to enjoy a familiar, comfortable setting indoors while wilderness lay just outside. At the beginning of the 20th century, travelers began returning to this idea. That is how glamping was born.

Today’s glamping sites combine modern technology with simple outdoor living. Guests enjoy familiar comforts while a fabric tent shelters them from the elements. Inside, there is a comfortable bed, underfloor heating, a shower, and, of course, internet access. There are plenty of other comforts too. But open the door and nature is right at your fingertips. We have selected the best places that combine the romance of the wilderness with hotel-style comfort.

Hygge Camp in Karelia

Travelers often praise the Ruskeala area, calling it the most beautiful part of Karelia. The glamping site is only an hour’s drive away. It is surrounded by fragrant coniferous forests, with a mountain lake nearby. A good morning is guaranteed for guests staying here. Simply step outside the tent and the scent of mountain air and pine will quickly wake you after a deep sleep and energize you for further adventures.

Getting there

By train: Depart from Saint Petersburg’s Finland Station on the Vyborg route to Kuolemajärvi station. From there, take a taxi to Cape Kyyrönniemi.

By car: Take Primorskoye Highway from Saint Petersburg. It is a 120 km drive to the village of Luzhki, followed by about another two kilometres to the “Hygge Camping Hotel” sign. Turn left there and continue for around 1 km to the destination.

“Dobroye” on Utrish Island

This tented accommodation with comfortable facilities is just 30 metres from the sea. At night, the gentle sound of the waves will help you fall asleep after an active day. During the day, an oyster farm and nature reserve are within easy reach. There is also a diving centre nearby. The glamping site is only 20 kilometres from Anapa.

Getting there

First, reach the village of Bolshoy Utrish by bus 109, car, or taxi. From there, take a boat to the site. Paid parking is available for drivers.

“Forest and Sea” in Altai

Set in a taiga clearing beside the mountain river Yedygyem, this is a beautiful glamping site. The organizers have created an exciting adventure for guests: a tour that fully immerses you in Altai’s extraordinary natural landscapes. You can leave your belongings here, as a heavy backpack will not make a walk through Altai’s beauty any more enjoyable.

Getting there

You can visit only as part of a tour group. The organizers meet guests at Gorno-Altaysk Airport and bring them to the site.

“Ethno House Yurt” in Altai

In this wonderful place, you can also stay in a real yurt right beside the mountains. Guests can experience the local atmosphere while spending the night in traditional nomadic dwellings. The stunning Geyser Lake, Katu-Yaryk, and Akturu are not far from the glamping site. They are well worth seeing with your own eyes.

Getting there

By car only: it is 355 kilometres from Gorno-Altaysk to the village of Aktash, followed by another 56 kilometres. Renting a car is recommended for this trip.

Scala Glamping in Kabardinka

Another unusual place to relax, set in a gorge. Guests are surrounded by complete comfort: beautiful views of the Black Sea, a grill bar with a chef, and a massage therapist to ease tired muscles and help you forget everyday tension. You can also watch the sunset from the edge of a cliff. Make a wish—it is sure to come true.

Getting there

By car, it is 174 kilometres from Krasnodar. Head towards Cape Doob.

Polyana in Kaliningrad

This impressive glamping site is located in the world-famous Curonian Spit National Park. Guests are surrounded by comfort, with a landscaped beach, café, and sports areas available. You are unlikely to feel like a wilderness explorer here, but you can certainly relax comfortably in the heart of nature.

Getting there

Distance: 35 kilometres from Kaliningrad

“Incredible North” on the Kola Peninsula

Discover travel in the north. This comfortable glamping site is located on the shore of the Barents Sea, with beautiful views of this cold northern region. A cultural programme is available as well. Guests are taken into the wilderness, to waterfalls, abandoned ships, and military forts.

Getting there

The organizers meet tour groups at Murmansk Airport. You will travel to the site in off-road vehicles.

BOHO CAMP in Leningrad Oblast

The creators have done everything to give you the experience of staying in a traditional teepee. Guests stay in teepees surrounded by dense forests and crystal-clear lakes. All you need is suitable outdoor clothing and a willingness to meditate. Here, you can immerse yourself completely in nature.

Getting there

From Saint Petersburg, drive 175 kilometres along Murmansk Highway. After the sign for the village of Domozhirovo, turn right and continue to the signpost.

Here, guests are offered accommodation closer to a true outdoor experience. There is no electricity in the tents, and instead of a comfortable bedroom, you sleep in a sleeping bag. As a bonus, there is a glass dome where you can admire the stars all night long. During the day, enjoy kayaking and yoga in complete silence.

Getting there

Take a train or bus to Priozersk, then hire a taxi to the “Ladoga Lake” base and continue on foot.

“Chara Sands” in Transbaikalia

A classic trip with your own tent along the Northern Desert–Chara Sands route. The location is five kilometres from the village of Chara. The spectacular Udokan and Kalar mountain ranges surround the desert, while nearby there is an oasis with the charming name “Alyonka.”

Getting there

First, fly to Chita, then travel on foot or by car from the village of Chara along the left bank of the Sredny Sakukan River. Next, ford the river and walk a couple of kilometres to the desert.

Tired of classic camping tents? Try glamping. It combines the seemingly incompatible: connection with nature and comfort are both guaranteed.