The festive season is filled with tradition, and while this can be lovely, it can also be a source of stress. According to Mental Health UK¹, 3 in 10 Brits admit that their mental health declines at Christmas for various reasons, with 4 in 10 (41%) saying they were feeling the pressure to make this Christmas extra special. But what if you could eschew old traditions and make some new ones for yourself? One way could be to have a Nomadic Christmas.
When you think of Christmas, thoughts of cosy homes full of people, roaring fires, and gatherings around a table decked out with every variety of food imaginable usually come to mind. However, it cannot have escaped people’s notice that this all seems a little formulaic, which is why more and more are seeking out ways to be individual.
During the festive period, options for ‘breaking the mould’ are somewhat limited. However, one way you can do this is by experiencing a Nomadic Christmas. It is becoming an increasingly popular option as it allows one to disengage from the stresses of the world and reset one’s mind; it is also the ideal opportunity for people to start their own traditions.
This year, Boutique Camping has highlighted some of the many benefits that come from experiencing Christmas in peace and solitude. Admittedly, it is an original way to spend Christmas; however, it would be an ideal opportunity for you to create your traditions and explore some new and unconventional winter experiences.
Hannah Rose-Wynter, Marketing Manager at Boutique Camping, says, “This Nomadic Christmas, break free from tradition and forge your own narrative. Whether it’s under the sun-drenched skies of Europe or amidst the serene beauty of the UK’s winter landscapes, make this festive season uniquely yours.
This is a great opportunity to embrace the spirit of adventure, celebrate individuality, and create memories that will be cherished for years to come. And what better way to do that than with a festive camping trip?”
Finding festive adventure in the heart of the UK
For the adventurous souls who prefer a touch of frost on their festive celebrations, winter camping in the UK could be the perfect Christmas treat. Places that spring to mind are the rugged beauty of the Lake District and the enchanting Scottish Highlands, both of which would provide a breathtaking backdrop to a Nomadic Christmas.
What you’ll need to do is equip yourself with a sturdy tent, warm layers, and a spirit of adventure to ensure you remain comfortable before waking up to the crisp air and the stunning views of nature’s winter wonderland.
Top tips for camping in December include:
- Choose a thermal sleeping bag to stay warm during chilly nights
- Pack layers to regulate body temperature effectively
- Invest in a flame-retardant, high-quality bell tent with wood-burning stove
- Choose a campsite that permits campfires
- Plan your camping trip in advance and be aware of weather conditions
Finding winter sun in Europe
For those seeking a Christmas basking in the winter sun, Europe offers an array of delightful destinations. Swap snow for sunshine and head to the charming streets of Seville, Spain, or the picturesque landscapes of the Algarve in Portugal.
Embrace the festive cheer with a touch of Mediterranean warmth, where Christmas markets, vibrant decorations, and local traditions create a unique yuletide experience.
If you yearn for a classic snowy setting, venture into the Alpine wonderlands of Switzerland or Austria, where snow-capped peaks and enchanting villages provide a magical backdrop for a traditional winter holiday.
Additionally, the Scandinavian countries, such as Norway and Sweden, boast pristine landscapes blanketed in snow, offering a serene and idyllic escape for those who dream of a white Christmas.
Alternative Christmas dinner: Pizza oven recipes
No Christmas celebration is complete without indulging in delicious festive food. For those adventurous souls embracing a nomadic Christmas, consider elevating your culinary experience by bringing along a portable pizza oven. This compact and versatile cooking tool not only adds an exciting element to your outdoor escapade but also opens up a world of delicious possibilities.
Picture gathering around the campfire, the aroma of freshly baked pizzas wafting through the crisp winter air, creating a cosy and communal atmosphere. The pizza oven also allows you to whip up a variety of hot and hearty meals easily, providing a comforting touch to your camping experience.
Its efficiency and ease of use make it a must-have for campers looking to add a delectable twist to their holiday festivities under the stars.
Consider whipping up these quick and easy Christmassy recipes designed for the pizza oven.
Recipe 1: Festive cranberry and brie pizza
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough
- Cranberry sauce
- Brie cheese
- Fresh rosemary
- Walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Roll out the pizza dough and spread a generous layer of cranberry sauce.
- Add slices of brie cheese evenly across the pizza.
- Sprinkle fresh rosemary and, if desired, crushed walnuts.
- Cook in the pizza oven until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
Recipe 2: Yuletide apple and cinnamon pizza
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough
- Apple sauce
- Apple slices
- Brown sugar
- Cinnamon
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
Instructions:
- Roll out the pizza dough, spread a layer of apple sauce, and arrange thin apple slices
- Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon over the apples
- Bake in the pizza oven until the crust is crisp and the apples are caramelised
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra festive touch
Alternative Christmas dinner: Cast iron cooking
If pizza isn’t your thing, why not try a bushcraft Christmas dinner — a delightful array of dishes expertly crafted using a trusty cast iron cooking set?
Begin your festive feast with an indulgent starter of seared scallops, cooked to perfection in the robust confines of your cast iron pan, delivering a tantalising prelude to the holiday celebration.
For the main event, reimagine the traditional Christmas meal with a bushcraft twist—a festive pizza on the base of a golden Yorkshire pudding, with rich gravy as the sauce and roast beef, stuffing, and pigs in blankets as decadent toppings. This unique take on a classic guarantees a memorable and satisfying centrepiece for your outdoor Christmas gathering.
As a cheeseboard alternative, elevate your campfire dining experience with a baked Camembert. Place the wheel of Camembert in a cast iron pot atop the stove, allowing it to melt into gooey perfection. Pair it with crusty bread, crackers, or crudités for a rustic and indulgent treat.
No Christmas dinner is complete without a sweet treat. Embrace the warmth of the season with chocolate fondue, melted to silky smoothness, in a pot perched atop your trusty cast iron stove. Dip an assortment of marshmallows, fruits, or even chunks of Christmas cake into the luscious chocolate for a decadent dessert experience.
With a cast iron cooking set as your ally, your bushcraft Christmas dinner becomes a culinary adventure, fusing traditional holiday flavours with the rugged charm of the great outdoors.
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