Swann family transforms generational Grand Canyon land into eco-conscious glamping designed for comfort, connection and dark-sky wonder.
The private land on the southwestern outskirts of the Grand Canyon has been in the family for more than 50 years and was home to Fabienne until she was 18. She attended Grand Canyon School and enjoyed life around the South Rim village.
After attending college, Fabienne met her Australian-born husband, Bass, and has returned to the Grand Canyon with plans to share the love of their land with others at their Highland Grand Canyon Glamping Retreat.
The couple, who refer to themselves as “passionate adventurers and nature lovers,” have spent years camping and exploring national parks and had envisioned outdoor accommodations that reflect safari-style tents with rustic charm and cozy comforts.
“We got a taste of glamping in Kanab Utah and we fell in love with it,” said Bass. “That’s when we decided to start our business, Highland Grand Canyon Glamping Retreat. We wanted to create a space where people can escape, recharge and connect with nature without giving up the comforts of home.”
“We pitched the idea to my family to see if they would be on board with us moving back and starting a business on their property,” said Fabienne. “They agreed and have been a huge help every step of the process, emotionally, physically and educationally. They have even helped build decks, tamp down gravel, stain decks and put up tents. All in all, it’s been fun. This is such an important piece of property. We want to do everything right.”
Located four miles from the Grand Canyon, the Highland Grand Canyon Glamping Retreat offers spacious tents with boutique charm, high-end mattresses, wall outlets, USB ports and a large deck. Shared spaces include bathrooms, a barbecue area with preparation space, coffee and tea stations, Wi-Fi, outdoor games and a firepit. Stargazing under the dark skies is a natural feature.
“We are fully off-grid,” said Bass. “All power is solar-generated and we haul all of our own water, so we’re very eco-conscious. We are also ADA (American with Disabilities Act)-compliant so we have a tent with no steps.”
For fire protection, rainwater is collected and stored.
“It’s so nice,” said Cory Pevera of Truckee, California, who stayed at Highland Grand Canyon Glamping Retreat for three days. “Honestly, it’s so peaceful and amazing to think that you’re so close to connivence but you feel like you’re worlds away in your own escape. One morning we woke up to an elk that walked through. I loved the tents. They are so cute and the decorations are adorable and unique to each tent. They have that personal touch.”
“This is such an important piece of property to our family, we wanted to make sure that we did everything correctly so that we are protecting and preserving the land. Very important,” said Fabienne.
“This whole idea has been wonderful,” said Fabienne’s mom, Sue. “It’s so nice to have Fabienne and Bass back here and I know this is going to go well for them.”
Kelsey Carlton of Grass Valley, California, stayed at Highland Grand Canyon Glamping Retreat with her husband last year. “The stargazing was unreal. We’ve never seen so many stars and even caught a couple shooting stars. The tents were so cozy and we loved cooking up breakfast and eating on the deck. We can’t wait to go back.”
Highland Grand Canyon Glamping Retreat is open from May through October. During the off-season, Bass is a professional ski instructor and trainer in the Lake Tahoe area. Fabienne also works in the ski industry. FBN
By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN
Highland Grand Canyon Glamping Retreat is located at 33 Rowe Well Road. Grand Canyon passes can be purchased online. For more information, visit at www.highlandgrandcanyon.com or call 928-224-9333.
Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography: Fabienne and Bass Swann wanted to create a space where people can escape, recharge and connect with nature without giving up the comforts of home.
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