As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, designers and operators are increasingly turning their attention to the power of colour and its ability to transform the guest experience. In our 15 years in luxury hospitality… From serene nature-inspired palettes to vibrant bohemian hues, the emerging colour trends in luxury camping are redefining how travellers connect with the great outdoors.
Now, this might seem counterintuitive for a luxury resort…
Emerging Colour Palettes
Luxury camping, or “glamping,” has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, with savvy hospitality providers responding to the growing demand for upscale outdoor accommodations. At the forefront of this trend are the innovative colour schemes that seamlessly blend the indoors and outdoors, creating a sense of harmony and tranquility.
One notable palette trend is the use of earthy, muted tones that evoke a connection to the natural environment. Think deep greens, rich browns, and warm ochres – colours that complement the rugged terrain and lush vegetation surrounding the campsite. This grounded aesthetic helps guests feel immersed in the natural world, fostering a deeper appreciation for their surroundings.
Alternatively, some luxury camping resorts are embracing a more vibrant and playful colour scheme, drawing inspiration from the bold hues found in nature. Vivid turquoises, sunny yellows, and rich purples can be seen in the textiles, furnishings, and architectural details, creating a fun and energetic ambiance that appeals to the adventurous spirit of glamping enthusiasts.
Upscale Outdoor Accommodations
Luxury camping experiences go far beyond the traditional campfire and sleeping bag. Today’s glamping resorts are redefining the notion of outdoor hospitality, offering guests a level of comfort and sophistication that rivals high-end hotels.
Accommodations range from spacious canvas tents with plush bedding and en-suite bathrooms to eco-friendly tree houses and Safari-style lodges. Regardless of the specific accommodation type, the use of colour plays a vital role in establishing the overall ambiance and setting the tone for the guest experience.
For example, a safari-inspired tent outfitted in warm, earthy tones might feature rich leather accents, woven textiles, and wooden furnishings, evoking a sense of classic adventure. Conversely, a modern tree house adorned in vibrant blues and greens could create a whimsical, nature-immersed atmosphere, encouraging guests to embrace their inner child and explore the surrounding forest.
Elevated Guest Experiences
Colour not only influences the aesthetics of luxury camping, but it also plays a crucial role in shaping the overall guest experience. Hospitality providers are increasingly leveraging strategic colour choices to enhance various touchpoints, from spa treatments to dining experiences.
In the realm of wellness, luxury camping resorts are incorporating soothing hues, such as soft lavenders and calming blues, into their spa and relaxation areas. These colours are known to have a calming effect, helping guests unwind and truly disconnect from the stresses of everyday life.
Likewise, the culinary experiences at glamping destinations are being elevated through the use of colour. Vibrant, locally-sourced ingredients are showcased in carefully curated plate presentations, while the dining spaces themselves feature earthy tones and natural materials to create a sense of connection to the surrounding environment.
Wellness-Focused Hospitality
As the demand for holistic wellness experiences continues to rise, luxury camping resorts are positioning themselves at the forefront of this trend. By seamlessly integrating colour into their overall design and programming, these properties are able to deliver a truly transformative experience for their guests.
Beyond the spa and dining realms, luxury camping resorts are also incorporating colour-driven wellness activities, such as guided meditation sessions in serene forest clearings or outdoor yoga classes against the backdrop of breathtaking mountain vistas. These immersive experiences allow guests to fully connect with nature and its restorative powers.
Furthermore, some glamping destinations are even going a step further by offering colour therapy workshops and nature-inspired art classes, empowering guests to explore the therapeutic benefits of colour through hands-on creative expression.
Gourmet Camping Cuisine
The culinary offerings at luxury camping resorts are a far cry from the traditional campfire fare. Hospitality providers are elevating the dining experience by embracing the vibrant colours and flavours of locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients.
Farm-to-table dining is a hallmark of the gourmet camping experience, with chefs showcasing the region’s bountiful produce, meats, and seafood in beautifully presented dishes. The use of vivid hues, such as the deep greens of leafy vegetables, the warm ochres of roasted root crops, and the vibrant reds of juicy berries, creates a visually stunning dining experience that tantalizes the senses.
Complementing the culinary offerings are equally impressive beverage programs, featuring craft cocktails and artisanal non-alcoholic beverages that incorporate locally-foraged botanicals and seasonal fruits. The vibrant colours of these drinks not only enhance the visual appeal but also reflect the resort’s commitment to celebrating the flavours of the surrounding environment.
Guest Experience Enhancement
Luxury camping resorts are not only captivating guests with their stunning colour-driven aesthetics but also enhancing the overall experience through personalized service and cutting-edge amenities.
Guests are greeted by name and their preferences are anticipated, whether it’s a specific pillow type or a preferred wine varietal. This level of personalization extends throughout the entire stay, with staff trained to anticipate and exceed guest expectations.
In addition to the thoughtful service, luxury camping resorts are incorporating state-of-the-art technology to elevate the guest experience. From seamless mobile check-in and in-room controls to augmented reality nature trails and virtual concierge services, these resorts are leveraging innovation to create truly immersive and unforgettable experiences.
Underpinning these guest-centric initiatives is a strong commitment to sustainable hospitality practices. Luxury camping resorts are embracing eco-friendly design, renewable energy sources, and zero-waste initiatives, ensuring that their operations have a minimal impact on the surrounding natural environment.
Hospitality Design Innovations
The architecture and design of luxury camping resorts are not merely backdrops, but rather integral components that actively shape the guest experience. Hospitality providers are increasingly turning to nature-inspired design, seamlessly blending the indoors and outdoors to create a truly immersive experience.
Organic materials, such as wood, stone, and natural textiles, are prominent in the construction and furnishings, while large windows and expansive outdoor living spaces allow guests to fully engage with the natural surroundings. The use of strategic lighting and warm, earthy colour palettes further enhances the sense of connection to the environment.
Beyond the physical design, luxury camping resorts are also integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance the guest experience. Interactive digital displays, smart home systems, and augmented reality experiences are being employed to provide guests with seamless and personalized interactions, while simultaneously reducing the environmental impact of traditional hospitality operations.
Wellness-Centric Programming
Luxury camping resorts are not just about the accommodations and amenities; they are also about the transformative experiences that empower guests to prioritize their well-being. Through carefully curated wellness programming, these properties are redefining the notion of “vacation” by offering opportunities for personal growth, mindfulness, and reconnection with nature.
Guests can indulge in restorative spa treatments that incorporate locally-sourced, organic ingredients and soothing colour palettes, or they can participate in outdoor fitness classes that harness the energy and vitality of the natural surroundings. Additionally, many luxury camping resorts offer immersive workshops on topics such as meditation, forest bathing, and sustainable living, allowing guests to deepen their understanding of holistic wellness.
The integration of colour plays a pivotal role in these wellness-centric experiences, with hues carefully selected to evoke specific emotional and physiological responses. For example, the calming blues and greens found in forest environments are known to reduce stress and promote relaxation, while the vibrant reds and oranges of sunrises and sunsets can energize and inspire.
Hospitality Branding and Marketing
As the luxury camping market continues to evolve, hospitality providers are leveraging the power of colour to differentiate their brands and captivate discerning travellers. By crafting a distinct visual identity that aligns with the resort’s unique personality and ethos, these properties are able to effectively communicate their value proposition and appeal to their target audience.
The use of color in branding and marketing extends far beyond the resort’s physical spaces, with a strong presence across digital platforms, print collateral, and experiential touchpoints. Hospitality marketers are leveraging the emotive qualities of colour to evoke specific feelings and associations, whether it’s the serene tranquility of a lakeside retreat or the adventurous spirit of a mountain-based glamping destination.
Furthermore, luxury camping resorts are harnessing the influence of social media and the sharing economy to showcase their vibrant, nature-inspired experiences. By curating visually striking content and encouraging guests to share their own colourful captures, these properties are able to tap into the growing demand for immersive, experiential travel.
As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, the strategic use of colour in luxury camping will undoubtedly remain a crucial differentiator, allowing resorts to captivate guests, foster deeper connections with nature, and deliver transformative experiences that leave a lasting impression.
Example: South Lake Tahoe Luxury Retreat 2024
