Summer is the perfect time to spend a weekend becoming one with nature during a camping getaway, but why camp when you can stay in a yurt? These traditional Mongolian tents made of wood and covered with felt or skins have quickly become a popular lodging option among glampers and others looking for added comfort during a camping getaway. Travel rental site AirBnB even dubbed 2014 the “year of the yurt.” Check out this travel trend for yourself with these 10 places around the world where you can spend the night in a yurt.
Nomad Ridge at The Wilds, Cumberland, Ohio, United States
Wildlife like deer, antelope and giraffes call the 10,000+ acres of The Wilds in Ohio home, and you can immerse yourself in the sights with a stay at one of The Wilds’ nine luxury yurts along Nomad Ridge. The overnight package includes a two-hour safari, and meals prepared by an onsite chef.
Yurt on the Bay, Bay City, Oregon, United States
The Oregon Coast is yours to explore when you stay in this luxurious, 525-square-foot yurt in Bay City. During the day, you’ll have 180-degree views of the water, and in the evenings, a clear dome lets you enjoy the stars as you fall asleep on the handmade queen bed.
Merridale Estate Cidery, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
Two yurts offer you an intimate look into cider country on Vancouver Island, where Merridale Estate Cidery has been making artisan apple cider since 1990. Here, you can escape into the apple-filled countryside while relaxing in a wooden yurt, complete with indoor fireplace and deep soaking tub.
Reef Break Resort, Chiba, Japan
The sound of waves breaking against the rocky shoreline of Japan’s Chiba Prefecture sets the tone for a relaxing seaside getaway at The Reef Break Resort near Ohara. While staying in this seven-person yurt, you can soak in a traditional Japanese hot tub (rotemburo), arrange for an acupuncture treatment or enjoy cocktails as you overlook the ocean from the resort’s cabana bar.
Seaview Game Farm, Black Creek, British Columbia, Canada
A group of six can call this 168-acre working farm a temporary home thanks to Seaview’s 800-square-foot yurt, which includes a full kitchen, jetted soaker tub, gas fireplace and views of the Salish Sea. A modern interior and all the comforts of home make this yurt stay feel like you’re spending the night at a boutique hotel.
Mongolian Yurt in Colfax, California, United States
Enjoy a taste of the Far East while staying in the Sierra Foothills of Northern California, where this authentic Mongolian yurt combines a private woodland setting with East Asian decor for a Zen-inspired getaway. The owners can also arrange for massages to take your relaxation to the next level.
Mongolian Yurt in Dresden, Germany
A traditional Mongolian yurt awaits you near the riverside capital of Dresden in eastern Germany. This AirBnB listing invites you to “be inspired by the spirit of Genghis Kahn” which lives on through the yurt’s Mongolian furnishings and traditional decorations that channel Mongolia’s past to modern-day Germany.
The Malibu Yurt, Malibu, California, United States
This upscale yurt on California’s coast sets you in the heart of Malibu on an organic citrus farm. Secluded in the natural beauty of Malibu, you’ll be pampered with perks like Wi-Fi and bamboo flooring, not to mention the organic, home-cooked meals that can be arranged by the host. Nearby hiking and beaches add to the allure.
Gurt the Yurt, East Sussex, United Kingdom
Stay at a working farm in the United Kingdom with a stay at Gurt the Yurt in East Sussex. This handmade yurt is set right next to bluebell woods, and amenities like an on-call chef and massage therapists allow you to relax on your own terms. If you’d rather drink in local fashion, a country pub offers traditional bar food and local ales.
A yurt in Rhone-Alpes, France
You might feel as if you have France’s Savoy region all to yourself with a stay at this secluded yurt in Rhone-Alpes. This basic, comfortable yurt lets you unplug from an gadget-driven lifestyle as you unwind with mountain views and a wood-burning fireplace.
Have you ever stayed in a yurt? Let’s hear about your experience!
(Main image: HomeAway.com)
