The Wildheart Trust, a wildlife sanctuary located in Sandown, United Kingdom has unveiled its plan to construct a glamping facility on five acres of land adjacent to the sanctuary.
The land, previously owned by the Isle of Wight Council, was approved for sale to the Trust in May of last year. Now, for the first time, plans for the site have been revealed.
The glamping site is designed to immerse visitors in a wildlife-rich environment, with red squirrels, rare bats, and reptiles all set to benefit from the rewilding plans.
The sanctuary’s current residents, including tigers, lions, and lemurs, will also be audible from the glamping site, adding to the experience.
Themed holidays, therapy breaks, and educational visits are all on offer at the new site, and the Trust believes that connecting visitors to nature in this way is an essential element of a successful biosphere.
The ‘intoxicating combination of a peaceful site rich in wildlife, overlooking the Sandown levels’ is sure to prove irresistible to visitors, according to the Trust.
The Trust also hopes that the development will create permanent jobs and boost visitor numbers, thereby benefiting the local economy.
The site extension has been designed to allow Browns, a heritage site much loved by the local community, to continue to operate, while public access to the Willow Walk will remain unchanged.
Glamping has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people looking for a unique camping experience that blends luxury and nature.
While some traditional campground owners and operators may view glamping as a threat to their business, others see it as an opportunity to diversify their offerings and appeal to a wider range of customers.
According to a report by Kampgrounds of America (KOA), 13% of camping households in North America have tried glamping, and 19% of campers say they are interested in trying it in the future.
With its unique location and focus on wildlife and nature, the Wildheart Trust’s glamping site is likely to be a popular destination for glampers and traditional campers alike.
While some may worry about the impact of the development on the local environment, the Trust’s commitment to rewilding the area and creating a habitat for endangered species should allay those concerns.
By connecting visitors to nature and supporting the local economy, the Wildheart Trust’s glamping site is a win-win for everyone involved.
The Wildheart Trust’s plans for a glamping site in Sandown are an exciting development for the local community and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
With its focus on nature, luxury, and education, the site is sure to appeal to a wide range of visitors and benefit the local economy.
As glamping continues to grow in popularity, it’s likely that other campground owners and operators will look to follow in the Trust’s footsteps and offer their own unique take on the glamping experience.