Untamed New Zealand: Riverside Glamping Escape

Set on Glenorchy’s ‘main road’ into town – there’s only really one – Base Camp’s butter yellow doors and falcon-guarded frontage set the tone for the delights that lie within. This is a backcountry base that doesn’t scrimp on style and certainly knows how to have fun. Owners Doug and Liz will put you at ease instantly and your wood-fire-heated hut will quickly have your heart.

Dinners are a communal affair at Base Camp. Think long tables, cast iron pots laid down that contain fire-cooked delights and big spoons designed for easy sharing. Wine flows as freely as the conversation (opt in at extra cost for this), the fire crackles in the background and these strangers you’re sat with soon become good friends. Because if you’re all at Base Camp, you have at least one thing in common: good taste.

It’s safe to say that any experience that starts with a helicopter ride is going to be a memorable one and this is no different. Launch into Mount Aspiring National Park and soak it all in. The Southern Alps are great for perspective, in scenery like this it’s hard not to feel gloriously small.

This is glamping redefined. Think: you, a remote riverbend, the stars and your own private guide and chef. The heavy canvas expedition tent is kept warm by a wood-burning stove and is stylishly decked out in line with the rustic setting. The fact that it’s only accessible by helicopter says it all.

New Zealand’s wilderness is enough to inspire even the most languid of people to lace up their hiking boots. Take full advantage of the fact that you have an expert backcountry guide on tap and get out there. Gentle stroll or challenging climb – they’ll cater to your level.

Hot soup that warms your heart as it goes down, fresh bread that is just the right balance of crust and squish, cowboy coffee that’s best taken black and hearty dinners rounded off with a healthy helping of dessert. Outdoor living calls for fuel and the Base Camp team know how to deliver.

New Zealand’s Dark Sky Reserves are world-renowned for a reason. Spotting the Southern Cross and mapping the Milky Way is easy out here. No light pollution, just you and the sparkling sky.

The helicopter ride back to Base Camp is just as breathtaking as the one that you took from there – but this time, you’re more connected to the land. Its magnitude is somehow that much more impressive now.

A finale feast is bittersweet. Although your time here’s been short, Base Camp feels like a home away from home. Cheers to adventure and see out the night toasting marshmallows over the open fire.