BWH enters glamping with WorldHotels Backdrop

INTERNATIONAL REPORT —  BWH Hotels has launched WorldHotels Backdrop, a new collection of upscale glamping retreats and outdoor escapes in scenic destinations worldwide, an offshoot of its WorldHotels soft brand.

The launch of Backdrop comes as other major brands have added glamping brands to their portfolios. BWH said this growing appetite for immersive outdoor escapes is reflected in the rapid expansion of the global glamping market, which was valued at $3.79 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $7.87 billion by 2033.

“Today’s traveler is seeking more than a getaway; they’re looking for connection and purpose. It’s about meaningful moments in local neighborhoods and journeys designed to inspire a deeper connection,” said Ron Pohl, president, WorldHotels. “At WorldHotels, we’re committed to helping our guests discover the perfect basecamp for exploration, whether it be personal or professional.”

The first three WorldHotels Backgroup properties will be:

• Zion Wildflower Resort, WorldHotels (Virgin, Utah), which is located minutes from the entrance to Zion National Park in southern Utah.
• Asheville River Cabins, WorldHotels (Arden, North Carolina, which is set along the French Broad River near Asheville and features newly renovated cabins surrounded by waterfront and mountain views, providing a base for tubing, hiking and mountain biking in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
• The Lodge at Pico Bonito, WorldHotels (La Ceiba, Honduras), which is coming later and is located near Pico Bonito National Park. It features exclusive access to jungle trails, hidden waterfalls and abundant wildlife in one of Central America’s most biodiverse landscapes.

BWH said the glamping sites can offer a flexible, scenic setting for meetings, retreats and special events, and Backdrop properties feature adaptable indoor and outdoor layouts that overlook natural landscapes for event planners.

The company said brand expansion could be limitless, with early conversations in destinations as varied as the beaches of Phan Thiet, Vietnam and safari locations in Africa and Australia.