Four years ago, Patrick and Amber Tyrrell started Valley Views Glamping, an eco-friendly camping experience within their 40-hectare property just two hours away from Dunedin and 12km away from Kurow township in New Zealand.
At first, they used Lotus Belle canvas tents on the off-grid location, a report said. They later replaced it with six geodesic domes. These are more suitable for the high country setting and let guests experience the stunning scenery of Mt. Domett.
The wheelchair-accessible domes are named after locations in the area—Kirkliston Range, Lone Hill, Station Peak – and have room for between two and four guests across 28-38sqm.
Large bay windows offer mostly obstructed views of the valley and mountains, while inside, the domes come equipped with all the luxuries for a comfortable stay. This includes a super king to California-king-sized beds with down duvets and woolen blankets.
Four domes are equipped with small wood burners to keep the heat on during the cold winter months. Solar extractor fans supply airflow during warm summer days.
The owners have tried to make a minimal impact on the environment as possible by using recycled and sustainable materials whenever they could.
One of the biggest domes, Station Peak, has an ensuite with its composting toilet! Wi-fi is intentionally removed to allow guests to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors.
The domes are located next to an off-grid lodge that has a communal kitchen and bathroom facilities. A fire pit is located on the deck outside.
For a complete experience in nature, there are four rustic baths set on platforms within the forest. One bath overlooks the Waitaki Valley, while another is situated over a tussocky gully. The trees are marked with signs that inform you if the baths are being used.