Glamping Ontario 101 - Are You Up For It?

If you're keen on glamping, Ontario has a pretty cool option. Check out my sleepover adventure at Long Point Eco Adventure. (Updated in 2021).

This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase, we may be paid a small commission. My stay at Long Point Eco Adventures was facilitated by Norfolk County Tourism. This did not affect my review and opinions remain my own.

Passing the breakfast tent as we approach the suites. When you're glamping in Ontario, you can expect a lot of luxuries.

The king sized bed, complete with Fairmont brand linens, is calling my name. While I’m chilly from spending my last few hours outside at an observatory, my gorgeous nest is deliciously warm, as I had the clever foresight to turn on the electric blanket. I slip between the buttery warm sheets with a happy shiver, dipping  into a bowl of snacks as I connect to Wi-Fi.

A minute later, I see a ferocious spider, inching towards me.

Welcome to glamping, Ontario style! Not quite camping, not quite a glamorous hotel, this unique hybrid form of accommodation is fast becoming a travel trend. But what is the experience like, who is it for, and – most of all – does it represent good value?

At the back of each suite is a private 'rain' shower.

Glamping at Long Point Eco Adventures

My Glamping Ontario experience at Long Pont Eco Adventures in Norfolk County is in many ways typical of the glamping experience. While glamping Ontario accommodations can vary from yurts to log cabins, most consist of safari-style canvas tents. Those at Long Point Eco-Adventures are custom made by local craftspeople (a greenhouse company constructed the frame; a sailing company developed the canvas roofs). The result is a custom creation that is perfect for the local climate and a reflection of diverse, homegrown talent.

​No matter what the setting, glampers can expect a solid structure and protection from the elements, a waterproof roof, a soft, warm bed, and plenty of amenities – running water, electricity, and Wi-Fi are common features. You can also count on a comfortable bathroom. Long Point Eco Adventures' glamping suite had a modern flush toilet, a normal sink, and a private, outdoor “rain” style shower.  And, yes, there is the occasional rogue bug that makes its way inside! Nothing that a well-aimed shoe can’t take care of!

King bed, tables, chairs, and lots of light.

Modern bathroom with private outdoor shower. These photos courtesy Long Point Eco Adventures.

Activities, Adventures, and Accommodations 

Glamping is not so much a form of accommodation as it is an experience. If you simply wanted to explore nature, you could stay at a traditional campground at just a fraction of the cost. If you wanted a glamorous hotel experience, you could always go the traditional route and book a suite in the city. Glamping is an all-encompassing experience.

​At Long Point Eco-Adventures, guests can enjoy the observatory program, access to nature trails and their most famous activity: zip-lining! At other glamping locations elsewhere you might have the option to learn wilderness and survival skills, go on a safari, take a cooking class, or even have a spa treatment. Mornings at Long Point bring homemade, cooked to order breakfast from the on site chef in a special dining tent and in other locations you can expect a food component as part of your glamping experience. 

An onsite wilderness trail.

A spectacular view over the marsh.

Is Glamping For You?

I would highly recommend glamping for anyone who likes trying something new and is always on the lookout for unique travel experiences. I think it would also be a great option for a group or family with diverse interests, as it’s the perfect compromise between roughing it and having the creature comforts of the hotel world. It would also be the perfect solution for anyone with health concerns who would love to go camping but requires certain amenities and accommodations for their wellbeing.

The observatory tower at Long Point Eco Adventures. One of the ziplines leaves from the platform beside it!

Is Glamping Good Value?

Last but not least: Is glamping good value? Those who want more than just accommodations, who are seeking an entire travel experience, will find good value in glamping. Rates in 2021 start at $199 a night for the smallest units (which can accommodate 3 people) to $249 a night for the king bed suite. 

However, if all you seek is a place to sleep and if you have little interest in the adventure activities (or if you have a real aversion to the occasional bug), you are likely better off seeking traditional accommodations. Traditional camping in your own tent at a provincial park costs about $40 a night - as such, glamping should be regarded as a whole experience, not just a place to sleep for a night. 

As always, I welcome and encourage your comments. Would you try glamping?

​
If you enjoyed this article, you'll also like:

Travel Disasters (Or: When the Tent Blows Away!)
Lessons Learned While Camping in Botswana 
Photo Essay: Zion National Park