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Glamping [noun]: a form of camping involving accommodation and
facilities more luxurious than those associated with
traditional camping.
Based on this clear definition, we were well and truly treated to a luxurious glamping experience. Nestled high up in the hills of the Kapiti Coast and less than an hour’s drive from our capital city sits the glamping sites for Dirt Farm Glamping.
Anchored on timber platforms are six different accommodation options for you. With wrap-around decking and a private bathroom, you are well looked after.
As we entered the park and started to wind our way through the forest, we could see glimpses of the mountain bike trails twisting and turning up and down the valleys. We knew an adventure would be awaiting us for sure.
Following the well-signposted points, which led us deep into the park, we shortly came up to the glamping area and parked.
We were warmly greeted by the park’s owner, Tim, who we later learned would be a super host and had some hidden wood fire pizza-making abilities.
Tim led us down the path to our home for the evening. We could see just how much effort and detail had gone into all aspects of the area, starting with the well-formed paths and timber decks which commanded some of the most inviting views down across the wooded valley and out to the sea.
The one thing you couldn’t miss was the tents we would be staying in. The first one we unzipped would be our lounge: tastefully applied bookshelves, cabinets, lamps, a couch and a coffee table which captured Chloe’s artistic appreciation instantly. The fireplace held my attention.
We set our things down and were eager to open up the tent in which we would be sleeping in. A wonderful large wooden bed greeted us first. With side tables and lamps to set the mood or a fireplace to keep things warm on a chilly night, we knew we were set.
After relaxing between the tents and catching up together, Chloe and I set out to explore some of the surrounding paths and walks on offer. We could spend hours in the outdoors, and this was a perfect place to unwind as you walk under the trees listening to the birds and natural sounds.
After our walk, we checked out the wood burner hot tub where you would easily be forgiven to make a few hours disappear in your evening, soaking away any stresses caused by a busy life.
Feeling like a drink was calling, we headed up to the dining nook, which held the cooking facilities if you needed them. This had a rustic theme to it, with raw timber walls and wooden floors. It was well appointed with a wood fire pizza oven, a large gas BBQ, sink hot running water, and a bench area with many pots and pans, etc, hanging from an overhead rack.
A large table beckoned us to sit down and natter, while we enjoyed a beer. We enjoyed a good few hours in there and were joined by Tim, who whipped up some homemade pizzas of all styles, which were delicious.
After some fantastic stories and hearing how Tim and his wife Carina had worked to get this all designed, built and fitted out, we knew this was something special that needed to be enjoyed.
We said our good nights and, being dark out, headed back to our tent via the well-lit pathway. On the way back, Chloe exclaimed that she felt like she was in a fairy tale. She wasn’t far off the truth; the glow of the tents and the ground-height path lighting gave a sense of being somewhere magical.
Freshening up in the bathroom, I was surprised to find just how good the pressure was in the shower and how hot the water was as well. It was just as good as at home, so I was not disappointed.
Zipping up the tent, we enjoyed a nightcap while watching the fire, and then something unexpected happened….it started to rain.
The high-quality canvas material sheltered us well from both the water as well as the sound. The inner lining of the tent was well insulated, locking in the warmth.
A typical routine for me is to plug in my phone to charge overnight, which wasn’t an option as there are no power outlets available. Luckily we knew this in advance, and upon arriving, we switched our phones to flight mode so that they didn’t use excessive power trying to gain cell signal.
This also allowed us to truly switch off from the busy, high-connection life we live at home. We enjoyed the sounds of being in nature and being in an amazing place with nothing to do but simply enjoy it; it was absolute bliss.
Through the night, we got to enjoy a huge lightning and thunderstorm. Well, Chloe didn’t, as she slept through it like a log. It was something I will never forget, being able to see the flashes of light and the roll of the thunder as we were safely tucked up in bed.
Once morning broke, we woke to fine weather. It was warm out, and after having a morning coffee and breakfast, we zipped up the tents to leave.
We left with a sense of feeling lighter, more energized, and dare I say it, happier. When you get to experience something outdoors that is so great, you are positively impacted. We invite you all to give glamping a go! If it’s the simplicity of not having to set anything up or being outdoors in absolute luxury that attracts you, then don’t wait.
To experience you’re own glamping adventure, get in touch with Tim and Carina at info@dirtfarm.co.nz. We highly recommend you get out and experience glamping yourself!
Also, don’t forget to join our Facebook group HERE for all things camping in NZ, and for helpful tips and tricks.
If you love what we do, please consider “buying us a coffee” to help us fund our endeavour of helping New Zealander’s get outdoors! All donations go towards the running of NZFA.
Happy adventuring!
Jono & Chloe
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