Two forest huts were built on a clearing below the forest, two wooden eco-structures with all the characteristics of a tent, but with the comfort of four solid walls which normal camping simply lacks. In time an eco-village developed with 12 huts, and today private bathrooms, saunas, and massage spaces are also available, as well as breakfast in a picnic basket.

"The glamourous part consists of not having to pitch a tent, remaining dry when it rains… And the view from the window… and some other, smaller details make it glamorous, but it can hardly be considered the life of luxury," explain the head of CB Nejc Kelbl and his colleague Nika Morič, who "imported" the concept of glamping to Slovenia. Their decision was based on frequent inquiries of guests about mobile houses which were not available at the camp at that time. But instead of increasing the capacity of the camp by setting the usual white plastic mobile houses, Kelbl and Morič chose the ecological version which offers to guests the most contact with the surroundings, and at the same time is the smallest burden to the environment. Together they managed to convince the managers and the owners of the camp.

They managed to lure the Slovenian tourists to Bled
The numbers confirm that their decision was correct. The forest huts Gozdne vile (in Slovenian also “Forest fairies”) are constantly sold out, and they turned out to be the first product of the camp to excite an interest among the Slovenians. Only a scant percent of the Slovenians can be found among traditional campers, while glamping is much more popular among the Slovenians (30%).

"The largest part is sold to domestic guests through gift vouchers as weekend packages. Nika prepares very inventive packages, e.g. Like Lovers do, Love is in the Air, a package with an astrologer... we have tested all of them, and the interesting fact is that the best sold package is "Like Lovers do": Kamasutra, sparkling wine at a hot tub, and massage oil are waiting for guests in the hut. Most often the package is a gift for somebody else, as people usually lack the courage to buy it for themselves. The mini-break package is very popular as well; it includes overnight accommodation with wellness and vital breakfast in a picnic basket," Kelbl explained.

Kaja Sajovic
Translated by G. K.