There’s no better way to get closer to your other half than sharing a tent. Some might say too sincere. Having just returned from a walk in Devon, where the man and I slept in a canvas house light enough (that is, small enough) to carry on our backs, I feel that I know much more about his knees and elbows than I would like. , midnight bathroom visits, and socks that haven’t been worn in three days. (But it was a great trip.)
But – thankfully – squeezing into a doghouse-sized tent is just one type of camping for couples. More sensible couples can choose a larger tent and pitch it in a gorgeous, adults-only location. You can throw back the wings to reveal a view of vines or the sea somewhere and cuddle under the stars. Then there’s the world of glamping, where it’s more romance and fairy lights than crushed heads and morning breath. You can find camp-like back-to-nature retreats for two, enriched with suitable beds and jacuzzis; Given that many places are booked in the summer, we may be more tempted as we move into autumn and try out-of-season outdoor sleeping. .
Whatever level of intimacy you desire, there is a camp or glamp to suit you.
budget romance
Dorset, England
A stone’s throw from the Jurassic Coast, Hobby Farm is open to adults (and dogs) only; The pitches are for two people and there is plenty of space between them; the local pub is just a five minute walk away. Couples who like to snuggle up can pitch their tents here all year round; If that sounds a bit hectic, opt for the Otter’s Nest Shepherd’s Hut, complete with wood-burning stove.
Offers from £20pn; shepherd’s huts from £70pn (07881 563571; westdorsetcamping.co.uk)
bubble break
Abruzzo, Italy
Italy is a latecomer to the glamping game, but the Cerchio Del Desiderio (“Circle of Desire”) is perfect for couples looking for a romantic retreat under the canvas. The country’s first geodomes (large, off-grid bubbles) are scattered among Abruzzo’s less-visited hills and olive groves. Do yoga together, gaze at the Gran Sasso mountains from your private terrace, and stargaze from your outdoor bathroom.
From £70pn (hostunusual.co.uk)
divine dream
Kent, England
You can become a “champion” by camping in a church in Kent. St Mary the Virgin in Fordwich is a good choice for couples celebrating an anniversary: inside there are rugs, cushions, twinkling candles and fairy lights, a double bench and cozy camping beds. The Michelin-starred Fordwich Arms is next door.
From £49pppn (020 7841 0436; champing.co.uk)
High Class Highlands
Perthshire, Scotland
At the most romantic spot for end-season camping, take shelter in “tents” that are more like five-star hotels in Bramble or Heather. Overlooking the Ochil Hills, these sumptuous yurts feature king-size beds, clawfoot bathtubs and wood-fired jacuzzis. Couples can also travel without a car: a free pick-up is available from Gleneagles station, and there are castles and golf courses nearby, as well as a gin distillery at the end of the road.
Prices from £200 for a two-night stay (01764 910320; alexanderhousescotland.com)
tree joy
Cumbria, England
Poodle in the canopy at Low Wray Campground. This tranquil spot on Lake Windermere (open until November 1) not only has beachside pitches but also globe-shaped hanging tree tents perfect for two people. Climb the ladder to snuggle up next to the red squirrels heated by the wood stove and look up at the stars through the skylight.
Two-night tree tents/tent pitches from £330/£84 (015394 32733; Nationaltrust.org.uk/holidays)
gourmet glamping
Peloponnese, Greece
Book a trip for two to Agrikies Country Retreat, featuring five comfortable safari-style tents amidst fragrant flowers and olive trees on the Peloponnese coast. It especially attracts the attention of food lovers with on-site activities such as olive oil and food pairing workshops, wine tastings and learning to cook traditional dishes.
From €140pn/£120 (agrikies.gr)
Cwch camping
Ceredigion, Wales
Hide away in the perfect pod for two: Tŷ Barcud sits alone on a two-acre meadow amid apple trees and free-ranging chickens, away from phone signals and other campers. The cozy cedar-lined pod features a double bed with duck-down duvet, kitchenette (complete with welcome goodies), bathroom, books and games; Outside there is a fire pit and a hammock with views over the Ystwyth valley.
From £85pn (01974 261669; tybarcud.com)
vineyard holiday
Styria, Slovenia
The stylish safari tents at Chateau Ramšak are open all year round: you can wait to enjoy the summer sun or book a winter trip to this winery near Maribor, clink glasses in your private jacuzzi overlooking the vineyards and enjoy the ride back. -nature camp vibe, but heating, warm beds and bathrobes are available. Tours and tastings are also available.
From £260pn (01865 600425; chateauramsak.com/glamps)