Dome Glamping SA: Revolutionising Luxury Outdoor Experiences

IIn the heart of the Berg River Resort, near Cape Town, lies Dome Glamping SA, an innovative venture merging luxury with nature. Spearheaded by Jana Breet, the company has swiftly carved a niche in the hospitality industry. Breet proudly noted that her company offers “a unique romantic getaway experience for couples,” with luxurious dome tents featuring queen-sized beds, walk-in showers, private decks, and wood-fired hot tubs, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Cape Winelands and serene Berg River.

Launching Dome Glamping SA in July 2023 was the realisation of a long-standing dream for Breet and her partner, who had always been passionate about creating memorable experiences. “Our love for camping without the hassle of setting up inspired us to launch this venture,” she explained. The goal was simple: “to offer something that combined the beauty of nature with the conveniences of modern living.” Since its launch, the glamping site has catered to couples seeking an intimate and peaceful escape from the bustle of everyday life.

However, like many entrepreneurs, Breet and her team faced challenges early on. "Navigating the unfamiliar territory of the hospitality industry was tough," she noted. As newcomers, finding the right platform to showcase their glamping business was one of their biggest hurdles. "We had to research and test different booking websites to determine which aligned best with our needs, both for functionality and exposure," she added.

A significant aspect of the business's success is its appeal to local and international markets. While some view glamping as an activity primarily for foreign tourists, Breet’s experience tells a different story. “We’ve found it to be more of a 50/50 split between local and international visitors,” she insisted. The site’s proximity to Cape Town—just a 40-minute drive from the city—makes it a convenient escape for South Africans looking for a weekend getaway. “The ability to quickly get out of the city and into a remote paradise is a big draw for our local clients,” she explained.

Brett observed that South Africa had embraced this glamping trend, “We believe the glamping industry will expand even more in South Africa, much like it has in the USA and Europe,” she added confidently.

The unique selling proposition for Breet and Company is their ability to cater to couples seeking a short, luxurious escape. “We offer one-night stays during the week, which many other establishments don’t,” she explained. While some might find the logistics of one-night stays challenging, she believes it’s part of the appeal. “It works for people with busy lives who want a quick breather away from their kids and hectic schedules,” she noted. This flexibility has resulted in her business being 95% fully booked.

On sustainability, Breet said her company is carefully positioned to minimise environmental disruption and adheres to strict guidelines to preserve the surrounding ecosystem. “We’re committed to reducing our carbon footprint,” she explained. One notable feature is a historic tree near the domes, which is so old that Breet and her team must consult specialists before making any modifications. “We’re very conscious of preserving nature,” she added.

Breet advises newcomers: "It's essential to focus on your niche that excites you, whether live streaming, adventure tourism, or romantic getaways like our glamping business.”

She has big plans for her business, and while remaining tight-lipped about specific details, she hinted at future expansion and diversification. “We’re currently researching options, but it’s still a hush-hush process,” she concluded.