There’s camping – and then there’s glamping. Think of it as nature with a touch of indulgence: waking up to birdsong, not backache; sipping a quality whisky by the fire instead of settling for instant coffee. Glamping lets you have all the atmosphere of the great outdoors, with a few well-chosen comforts to make it feel like a luxurious escape.

Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a celebration under the stars, or just a well-earned break, it’s the details that turn a good trip into an unforgettable one. From slow evenings by the fire to moments made for The Glenlivet, here are a few ways to elevate your next glamping adventure.

First things first – your setting sets the tone. Skip the basic tent pitch and look for stays that take the “glam” in glamping seriously: spacious bell tents with proper beds, shepherds huts with log burners, or hillside yurts with panoramic views. Scotland, in particular, has some incredible spots that blend wilderness and luxury.

Once you’ve found your spot, arrive early enough to enjoy the view with a dram of The Glenlivet 12 Year Old. Its smooth, floral notes make it the perfect welcome drink as you settle into the slower pace of the outdoors.

Half the joy of glamping is making your base camp feel like a retreat. Pack a few small luxuries – soft blankets, lanterns, even a proper pillow or two. A thick rug underfoot instantly makes your tent feel more like a cabin, and a string of fairy lights give everything that warm, golden glow once the sun sets. 

Settle in with a cocktail like the Whisky Sour, made with The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve. It’s a smooth and creamy single malt, perfect for sipping as you watch the fire crackle and the stars start to appear.

Forget instant noodles – glamping deserves food that’s as good as the setting. Bring a portable skillet or a cast-iron pan and try dishes that feel special but easy to pull off: pan-seared salmon with lemon and herbs, a simple risotto, or grilled halloumi and vegetables with olive oil and sea salt. For snacks, build a gourmet grazing board – cured meats, cheeses, olives, nuts and a drizzle of honey for something sweet.

A well-paired drink makes it even better. The Old Fashioned complements smoky, savoury flavours beautifully. Serve it in proper glassware and toast to a meal that feels worthy of a restaurant.

Evenings outdoors are made for slowing down, so pack a few ways to make the most of it. A portable speaker and the right playlist can set the mood – soft jazz for dinner, acoustic covers for a fireside nightcap. 

Bring a deck of cards, a board game, or if you’re feeling ambitious, a mini projector and a white sheet for your own open-air cinema under the stars.

Glamping doesn’t mean staying put. The best experiences balance calm with a sense of discovery. Try wild swimming in a nearby lake, follow a forest trail, or wake up early for sunrise yoga outside your tent. 

If you’re near a coastline, nothing beats a barefoot walk with a flask in hand. Or discover nearby activities like paddleboarding and foraging. Make sure to explore what your local area can offer.

When the stars are out and the fire’s burning low, it’s time to slow things down. The best glamping evenings are the unhurried ones – quiet conversation, a glowing fire and something exceptional in your glass. This is the perfect moment for something exceptional, like The Glenlivet 18 Year Old, known for its rich, balanced flavour. Pour a dram, take a breath and enjoy the stillness. 

Create a small fireside setup with a couple of chairs, blankets and something indulgent to snack on – think roasted marshmallows with sea salt chocolate or hot buttered popcorn in enamel bowls. It’s moments like these that make getting out of the city worthwhile. For more whisky picks made for the outdoors, explore our guide to camping whiskies.

Glamping is all about combining the best of both worlds – the calm of nature and the comfort of good taste. Add a few thoughtful touches, a dash of adventure, and the company of The Glenlivet, and you’ve got everything you need for a weekend that feels truly special.

For more inspiration browse our camping-inspired cocktails.