Is Bluestone Report in Pembroke an Accessible Alternative to CentreParcs?
This year we looked for an alternative to CentreParcs and decided to try Bluestone Wales as an alternative. We loved it and will outline why and how suitable it is for for an accessible holiday.
We did a weekend stay in a Carningli Lodge for 3 nights in June. This is a 4 bedroom, 8-person "Platinum" lodge for £1,245. There are cheaper options, but as we chose not to go on any other holiday this year, we decided to try it out.
Pros:
- We stayed in the Platinum lodges, which is a newly developed area at the resort. These were fantastic and finished to a very high standard. More premium than CentreParcs in our opinion.
- Generally more affordable accommodation options.
Cons:
The living area is upstairs for our lodge, which is not ideal for wheelchairs. BEdrooms were on the ground floor.
Getting to Bluestone Wales from Ireland is fairly straightforward, though it requires a combination of ferry or flight and road travel. Here are the steps and options available:
By Ferry and Car
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Ferry Options:
- Dublin to Holyhead: Irish Ferries and Stena Line operate this route with multiple daily crossings. The journey takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes.
- Rosslare to Fishguard or Pembroke: Stena Line operates the Fishguard route (approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes), while Irish Ferries operates the Pembroke route (approximately 4 hours).
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Driving to Bluestone:
- From Holyhead: The drive to Bluestone takes around 3.5 hours (approximately 150 miles). The route typically follows the A55 and A487 through scenic North Wales.
- From Fishguard: The drive is about 45 minutes (approximately 20 miles) via the A40 and A4075.
- From Pembroke: The drive is also about 45 minutes (approximately 20 miles) via the A4075.
Bluestone Resort in Wales is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular destination for parents traveling with children. Here's a detailed review from the perspective of a parent with a child in a wheelchair:
Accessibility
Accommodation: Bluestone offers several types of accommodation, many of which are wheelchair accessible. These lodges are designed with wider doorways, ground floor bedrooms, and accessible bathrooms equipped with roll-in showers and grab rails. This makes it easier for families to navigate and ensures comfort for a child in a wheelchair.
Transportation: The resort provides a range of accessible transport options. Wheelchair-friendly buggies and shuttle services help families move around the resort with ease. The parking facilities are also designed to accommodate vehicles with disabled badges, ensuring proximity and convenience.
Activities
Indoor Activities: The Blue Lagoon Water Park and Adventure Centre have provisions for wheelchair users. The water park includes accessible changing rooms and pool lifts, allowing children in wheelchairs to enjoy the aquatic fun. The Adventure Centre features inclusive play areas, ensuring that every child can participate in the activities.
Outdoor Activities: The resort's nature trails and outdoor adventure activities are also accessible. The staff is trained to assist and ensure that children with mobility issues can take part in as many activities as possible. This includes adapted bikes and accessible paths that offer a smooth experience.
Dining
Restaurants: Bluestone's dining facilities are designed to be wheelchair-friendly. The tables and seating arrangements accommodate wheelchairs, and the staff is attentive to specific needs. They offer assistance without hesitation, ensuring that dining out is a pleasant experience.
Staff and Service
Staff Assistance: One of the standout features of Bluestone is its dedicated and helpful staff. They are well-trained to assist families with special needs and are always ready to offer help, whether it's with mobility equipment or providing information on accessible routes and activities.
Overall Experience
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The overall atmosphere at Bluestone is inclusive and family-oriented. The resort makes a conscious effort to cater to the needs of children with disabilities, ensuring they have as much fun as their able-bodied peers.
Recommendations: To make the most out of the stay, it is advisable to contact the resort in advance and inform them of specific needs. This allows the staff to prepare and ensure that the accommodation and activities are perfectly tailored to the requirements of a child in a wheelchair.
Conclusion
Bluestone Resort in Wales is highly recommended for families with children in wheelchairs. Its commitment to accessibility, combined with a wide range of activities and excellent customer service, ensures that every family member can have a memorable and enjoyable holiday.
Bluestone Wales is a great alternative to Center Parcs, especially if you prioritize accessibility, affordability, and a nature-focused experience. Center Parcs, on the other hand, offers a broader range of activities and dining options, with a potentially more luxurious experience, but at a higher cost. Both resorts cater well to families, but Bluestone's emphasis on inclusivity and the natural beauty of Pembrokeshire make it a compelling choice for many.
