(BPT) - Summer is almost here, which means it's time to start planning your outdoor adventures for the season. When you think about the outdoors, you probably picture rugged terrains in a forest or woods. The term 'roughing it' may come to mind. But your trip into nature doesn't have to be devoid of comfort.
Whether you're experienced in outdoor recreation or learning how to camp for the first time, you can start this summer off right by thinking of ways to elevate your next trip into the wilderness. Check out these three tips to create a glamorous outdoor getaway you and others can enjoy together.
1. Dress up your site
Decor isn't just for your home! Whether you have a tent, trailer, cabin, yurt or van, a few fun touches can add comfort and style to your site. Purchase some battery-powered string lights and hang them inside your tent or camper to create soft, warm lighting as you turn in for the night.
You can dress up your outdoor spaces by layering colored or patterned tablecloths on the picnic bench, laying down an outdoor rug for extra seating and using a pretty tray to keep items together and out of the way on your table. You can also use string lights around your picnic area to create a whimsical atmosphere.
2. Add some campfire pairings
A great glass of wine can pair perfectly with camping fare. Whether you're enjoying some salty snacks, grilling hotdogs over the campfire or making s'mores, pairing wine with your food can make a good meal a great one.
"Nature and luxury aren't mutually exclusive,' said Flat Top Hills consulting winemaker Angelina Mondavi, member of the fourth generation of the winemaking family. 'In fact, wine pairs well with relaxing outside, and can really complement favorite camping fare. Pack a few bottles of your favorite wines with you and you can have a sip of home in the great outdoors. I love to bring a bottle of our Buttery Chardonnay or Rosé to put in a cold flowing creek to cool down, so when I return from a day of fly fishing the bottle is perfectly chilled and ready to be enjoyed by the campfire."
Flat Top Hills wines are designed to elevate everyday occasions. They are approachable, high-quality, fruit-forward, and made to easily match any meal.
Open a bottle of new Buttery Chardonnay to sip with chips and dip, popcorn or toasted marshmallows. A rich Red Blend or Cabernet Sauvignon goes perfectly with burgers and even as a dessert pairing for s'mores. Whip up a pasta salad and enjoy a glass of crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. If you plan to take a hike and picnic nearby, pack a bottle of Rosé to go with your packed lunch. Plus, Flat Top Hills white and rosé wines come with an easy to open screw-cap top, making them especially convenient when camping.
3. Stock your camp kitchen
At home, you have easy access to everything you need to make a meal. When planning your outdoor getaway, make a list of utensils, tools and gadgets you might need on your trip.
Consider purchasing a camping stove and coffee percolator so you can enjoy a cup before building your campfire and cooking breakfast. If you enjoy a morning smoothie, find a battery-powered blender to stash in your camp kitchen items.
Don't forget camp-friendly wine glasses made of high-quality BPA-free plastic or stainless steel, and of course, a corkscrew is a key part of any well-stocked camping box so you can enjoy a glass of wine while you relax in a hammock after a long hike. To learn more about wines you can take with you on your next outdoor adventure, visit FlatTopWines.com or check @FlatTopWines on Instagram.
