Posted: 18th November 2015
Glamping – it wasn’t even a word 5 years ago and now it’s the hottest holiday choice. When deciding on your location, obviously it is desirable to be based close to a well-known holiday destination with a good local infrastructure of tourist attractions, places to eat and special events. Locations near these mature holiday destinations can be expensive, but you could turn the tables and chose a remote location, use the peace and quiet, lovely walks and beautiful country views as your Unique Selling Point – the antidote to rushed city living.
It is not quite as simple as just plonking a few yurts in a field. You will need a licence and planning permission, so speak to your local council. Think about basic facilities, holiday makers are prepared to do without electricity (nothing lovelier than tea lights and a bread oven) but toilets and showers are a different matter! Sewerage and waste water disposal must meet national regulations; contact the Environment Agency for help with permits and regulations www.environment-agency.gov.uk
Also make sure you have the right insurance in place, the Camping and Caravan Clubwww.clubcareinsurance.com offers guidance. Finally to protect you and your customers you will need a robust set of terms and conditions which customers must agree to and sign.www.Featherdown.co.uk is a trusted umbrella group of exclusive farm glamping holidays and is a good place to look for ideas and to get an idea of the rental price to charge, you may even want to consider a franchise.
When you design and style your glamp site, remember that holiday makers are looking for something different; a glamping experience isn’t the same as a 5 star hotel so don’t try to compete in that market. Your guests want to live the rural dream even if it just for a few days. Make sure your website and all your marketing material reflects the theme; beautiful, restful images illustrating the relaxation and peace of glamping – no computers, no television but without having to rough it. Blog and use social media frequently to reflect and tell stories about that rural idyll that people want to experience – reel guests into the peace.
Your guests are a captive audience while they are with you so don’t miss the opportunity to offer additional services; welcome pack, catering, fresh farm or local produce boxes, picnic hampers or attractions. Again offer the whole experience and don’t worry too much about competing on price, guests tend to have a “once a year” mentality so are happy to add to the experience.
