MOUNTAIN LIFE - Blue Mountains | Spring 2019

72 ML BLUE SPRING 2019 “When we bought this property we had this vision and when we saw these tents, we were so excited. It expedited our timeline by ten years.” in 2012. Since then the company has secured distributors throughout the world and manufactures around 1000 tents per year. Naomi’s 16- foot Outback model is made with canvas, and features zippable mesh windows to provide a bug-free, well-ventilated space. The Canadian distributor sells the tent for $3750. Lotus Belle also creates a number of different models including a 20-foot Outback tent and their largest and most customizable model the Lotus Mahal. As the Airbnb listing suggests, one of Naomi’s goals with the space is to show people how easy it is to get outside, and to live outside. “The Woodland retreat is for those who are looking to get away, enjoy the outdoors and unplug from the business of life,” she writes. “A perfect location for honeymooners, romantic getaways, nature lovers, hikers, bikers, kayakers, artists, yogis, musicians, adventure seekers or anyone who is looking for a quiet retreat or an outdoor adventure. This is not the place to come to party and be noisy. This is a place to be one with nature.” This summer the couple hope to add a second tent to the site. This tent would feature the recently released stargazer roof, a clear PVC fabric that would allow people to watch the stars as they travel across the sky. Available to reserve from the May long weekend until Thanksgiving (maybe longer depending on weather), this is definitely an experience locals and visitors alike should consider. “I don’t know if Airbnb is going to be our final way of using this place,” she adds. “I have this vision of having sound journeys and yoga, so if people want a really small, intimate retreat weekend, then we can be a location to host it.”