Not every camper wants to get down and dirty in the mud. Do you yearn for sophistication and style? Yet, still be close to nature. The yurt and the bell tent will fulfill all your needs.
What do people say about them?
“A yurt is more than just a dwelling; it’s a way of life.”
– Becky Kemery, “Yurts: Living in the Round”
“Bell tents offer a unique blend of luxury and simplicity, allowing you to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort.”
– Jules Hudson, Presenter of BBC’s “Escape to the Country”
The bell tent appears to be the most popular glamping accommodation. Bell tent hashtags on Instagram yield millions of results compared to yurt hashtags which yield hundreds of thousands. This is a good indicator of bell tents popularity.
Overall glamping is a growth industry. The North American Camping Report points to a continued interest in glamping. Four in ten campers surveyed were interested in taking up glamping in 2023.
History of Bell Tents and Yurts
While glamping may be relatively new, bell tents and yurts aren’t. The bell tent dates back to 600 AD. Yurts are even older. Nomadic nations dating back to 600 BC were thought to have lived in yurt-like tents in the Central Asian area.
The bell tent was immensely popular with the British army and was used during the Crimean War in 1853. European armies as far back as the 9th century used Bell Tents.
The yurts popularity grew from its Central Asian origins. The Mongol Empire was known to have used them. Eventually they spread to parts of the Middle East and Europe.
Why are Bell Tents popular?
Bell tents are popular all over the world. They offer glampers a unique experience that offers excellent amenities not always available to ordinary campers. The desire for a new experience resonates highly with many people.
Bell tents continue to grow in popularity for a number of reasons:
Comfort and Style – Bell tents are wonderfully spacious. The giants in your group will be able to stand up instead of crawling around due to the high ceilings. The bell tent is seriously stylish, so make sure you leave your muddy boots outside. Bell tents are usually made with natural canvas materials which provides the tent with good insulation. You’ll feel warm in cool weather and cool when it starts to get hot.
Versatility – A bell tent can be set up in different locations, including private properties, campgrounds and festivals. Different kinds of travelers will find bell tents suitable for their needs. Families will love the space. Even solo adventurers will appreciate their luxurious surroundings. Additionally, if you buy your own tent, you can decorate however you want. Add furniture and ornaments or anything you can think of. Create the campsite of your dreams.
Ease of Setup – The bell tent will be all ready for you when you arrive at the campground. But if you buy your own don’t worry about the setup. Bell tents are surprisingly easy to set up. Often they have fewer poles and components of more traditional tents. With a little practice you’ll soon quickly assemble and disassemble your tent.
Connection with Nature – You’ll feel connected to nature and experience comfort and protection. The breathable canvas walls let in plenty of natural light. The large entrance allows great gulps of fresh air. You can take in all that beautiful scenery while relaxing inside. Many people talk about the sense of connection with nature. Bell tents are considered a popular choice for sustainable and eco-friendly travel.
Unique and Memorable Experience – Spending time in a bell tent is a unique experience you won’t forget in a hurry. It is another world from the hotels you have stayed in all your life. It is a chance to step out of your comfort zone. Though there is much comfort on offer. You’ll enjoy modern amenities in luxurious glamping locations. The bell tent is suitable for all types of travelers. This is where lasting memories are created.
Glamping accomodaton: Bell tents
It’s always good to weigh up the pros and cons before making any new decisions.
Bell Tent pros:
Spacious – Incredibly roomy interiors for groups or families.
Easy setup – Simple pole structure makes it a cinch to pitch up.
Affordable – Reasonable price to buy for such a big tent.
Variety – They come in different sizes – big and bigger!
Beautiful Aesthetics – there’s no getting away from the fact it is a good looking tent.
Good Ventilation – The canvas material is breathable and keeps the interior fresh.
Bell Tent Cons:
Limited Weather protection – You might need to consider extra waterproofing if you have bought your own.
Not All-Season – Consider a better option for winter camping.
Glamping Expenses – You are staying in luxury surrounded with excellent amenities so it can be pricey.
Privacy Concerns – The open layout isn’t as private as some people might want.
Flooring Needed – If you own the bell tent you need separate groundsheets for protection and comfort.
Wildlife Considerations – You must store food correctly, you don’t want the animal kingdom in your tent.
So take your time, think about the pros and cons. Do you want to buy a bell tent or do you want to go to a glampsite for a one off experience?
Why are Yurts popular?
There are a number of reasons why yurts are popular. If a yurt was good enough for Genghis Khan, it’s good enough for your family. Let’s explore the reasons they are a great choice for any glamping experience.
Spacious Comfort – Yurts offer more living space compared to ordinary tents. In fact, they probably have more space than a London apartment. Embrace a roomier feel with its circular design and sturdy walls. Perfect for families or groups.
All-Weather Durability – Traditionally built yurts have a domed roof and thick covering. It provides excellent protection from the elements. Yurts are sturdy and can withstand strong winds, rain and snow. They are more suitable for year-round glamping than bell tents.
Unique Aesthetic – The yurt is made from natural materials and has a circular shape. It is constructed with wood or bamboo and is covered in felt. This helps create a distinctively luxurious ambience. You’ll experience a curious mix of modern comfort while connecting with nature. This is a major attraction for potential glampers.
Potential for Luxury Amenities – The spacious interior and structure has room for extra amenities. Some yurt glamping sites will offer features such as comfy beds, furniture, electricity, and even en-suite bathrooms.
glamping accomodation: yurts
Let’s look at the good and the bad of yurts.
Yurt Pros:
Versatility – Yurts are extremely versatile, they serve many different purposes. Great for glamping but they can be used as a permanent residence or office.
Spaciousness – The circular design gives plenty of interior space, there are no interior walls.
Strength and Durability – The strong and sturdy construction withstands harsh weather, making winter glamping possible.
Portability – Many yurts are portable, so if you are lucky enough to afford one you can take it with you. It’s great for off-grid living.
Energy Efficient – The well-insulated design aids efficient heating and cooling, it helps you to reduce energy consumption.
Connection with Nature – The open ceiling and circular design gives you a view of the outside world, you know nature is close at hand.
Yurt Cons:
Limited Privacy – The open layout might not be for everyone, some people would like a little more privacy.
Maintenance – If you buy a yurt, you’ll have to keep it in good working order to ensure longevity.
Condensation – Watch for condensation in humid environments, interior surfaces may be susceptible.
Limited Storage – The circle design could limit storage space, so you’ll have to get creative.
Regulatory Considerations – Again, if you are lucky enough to own a yurt, obtaining a permit for installations can be tricky depending on the country and region.
Initial Cost – You’ve experienced a yurt while glamping, now you want to buy your own. The cost of a yurt could be over $50,000. Factors to consider include: size, materials, installation fees and location.
I hope this list gives you food for thought when thinking about yurts.
Conclusion
Bell tents and yurts are god’s gift to glamping and the world. Glamping continues to grow in popularity. You’ll have a great time in either tent. They are a luxurious treat for all the family. Many countries have great options when it comes to glamping sites.
The choice of a bell tent or a yurt comes down to personal preference. Both offer a luxurious alternative to regular camping. Both options have the ability to blend with nature while offering modern amenities. Great for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a longer retreat. Adventure and comfort await.
Extra
if you’re eager to expand your knowledge on the elegant world of glamping, I recommend visiting All About Glamping. This dedicated platform explores a vast array of luxurious outdoor accommodations, including the yurts and bell tents that pique your interest. With a collection of articles ranging from glamping basics to in-depth reviews and recommendations for sites in North America and the UK, you’ll find valuable insights to plan your next upscale outdoor retreat. For a deeper dive into the distinctive and unforgettable experiences that glamping has to offer, All About Glamping is an exceptional resource. Check out their insights and tips at allaboutglamping.com.
Great article, I think I want a yurt!
Good choice!