There’s a place out there...that’s different
BLUESTONE NATIONAL PARK RESORT
national park resort
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ESCAPE THE HUSTLE & BUSTLE OF DAILY LIFE Bluestone, in the heart of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, is an all year round, luxury short break destination like no other. Unwind in beautiful lodges set on a tranquil hill around a traditional village. There are activities and facilities to suit everyone, from toddlers to adrenaline junkies to those in search of an ultra relaxing experience.
INTRODUCTION
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PEMBROKESHIRE COAST NATIONAL PARK 06
- BLUE LAGOON
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RESORT ACTIVITIES
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THE RESORT
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OFF RESORT ACTIVITIES
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- ACCOMMODATION
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KNOW THE PEOPLE. KNOW THE PLACE
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- THE VILLAGE
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DIRECTORY
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- EATING OUT
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HOW TO BOOK
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- WELL SPA
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LOCATION
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04 INTRODUCTION
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othing brings you closer to family, friends and loved ones than taking them away for a break. And at Bluestone we’ve made it easy for you. Just turn up, park the car, settle into your luxury lodge and let us do the rest. Created within two woodland vales, in 500 acres of glorious Pembrokeshire countryside, Bluestone’s accommodation comprises of lodges, traditional Pembrokeshire cottages and studio apartments all set around a traditional Celtic village.
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Our activities are designed for you to enjoy a unique experience indoors and outdoors so whether you’re an adventurer, an explorer or you simply want to relax and unwind, Bluestone is unique, and is re-defining short break holidays in the UK.
The adjoining valley, however, is a little more active and includes Pembrokeshire’s premier leisure facilities the Blue Lagoon water park, the high ropes course at Steep Ravine and the indoor Adventure Centre.
Our belief is that no trip to Pembrokeshire is complete without a visit to at least one of our glorious beaches, or a stroll along the coastal path to enjoy some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK. Why not wander around the Preseli’s, exploring standing stones and ancient castles. Or enjoy a tour of St David’s, Solva, Tenby, or any of the picturesque towns and villages that typify Pembrokeshire’s charm and distinctive character.
So with something for everyone - not to mention the delights awaiting you in the rest of Pembrokeshire, what are you waiting for? What will you discover?
And that’s where we’re different. We want you to have a great time on the resort. And off. Our pretty village offers accommodation in 30 cottages and 15 studio apartments, along with a range of shops, restaurants, a traditional pub and holistic spa. The village and all accommodation are nestled into the hillside and surrounded by beautiful woodland. This valley also features woodland walks, nature and history trails, picnic areas, cycle routes, a 13th century church, a 14th century manor house and an Iron Age settlement.
THE VILLAGE GREEN Watch your children as they play and make friends with others on the village green, allowing Mum and Dad to sample some real Welsh ale from the Tafarn or a cold glass of Chablis from Dargavel’s wine store.
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THE 2ND BEST COASTAL DESTINATION ON THE PLANET National Geographic, 2010 At Bluestone, you’re never far from a beach. And what beaches! From the secret of Barafundle Bay to the drama of Freshwater West Pembrokeshire prides itself as being one of the UK’s most beautiful coastal counties and has the only Coastal National Park in the UK with 186 miles of uninterrupted coastal footpath. Boasting a whole host of long, sandy ‘Blue Flag’ beaches, towering cliffs, wooded inland estuaries and the wild Preseli hills, Pembrokeshire is a place of sanctuary for people and wildlife. In the National Park, there are 65 sites of Special Scientific Interest and 60 percent of the coastline and estuaries
have special protection as the most precious environmental areas in Europe. It has four island nature reserves with the island of Skomer being one of only three National Nature Reserves in Britain. Oh, and don’t forget, Pembrokeshire is bathed by the warmth of the Gulf Stream resulting in ‘milder’ winters. But don’t take our word for it. National Geographic recently voted Pembrokeshire the 2nd best coastal destination in the world.
‘Gwlad hud a lledrith’, roughly translated means ‘the land of magic and enchantment’ and is the name given to Pembrokeshire in the book of The Mabinogion, Wales’ earliest collection of folk tales. Not much has changed with the passing of time. From the 80 four-ton Bluestones that found their way from the Preseli Hills to form the inner circle at Stonehenge to the spectacular seascapes for which this far-flung part of Wales is renowned. It’s a county of heritage and culture where people have shaped the landscape over the centuries, leaving their mark in tombs and castles, crosses and cottages, quarries and quays. It still continues to cast its spell on anyone
who experiences it for themselves. The ancients knew it. The locals know it. When you stand on the cliffs amongst the flora and fauna and look out at the splendour of the coast, we’re going to guess you’ll know it too. Bordered by the sea on three sides, the county has a coastline that is home to important seabird breeding sites and large seal populations. Chances are they come for the fresh crab and lobster. But then so do we. Which is why we make sure you do too. Local families make their living in St Brides Bay and supply Bluestone with fresh crab and lobster that not only has travelled a short distance but also tastes magical.
WANTED... OUTDOORSY TYPES COMFORTABLE IN LUXURY LOG CABIN ENVIRONMENT
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THE RESORT
ROOM WITH A VIEW There are lots of outdoor adventures to have at Bluestone, but your accommodation is not one of them. Our lodges give boutique hotels a run for their money. And flat screen televisions and dishwashers come as standard.
The accommodation at Bluestone is unique and finished to an extremely high standard - designed to inspire and connect with the surrounding environment while ensuring sumptuous comfort. The timber lodges are built from sustainably-sourced European whitewood and located within the two Bluestone valleys, while the studios and cottages are built in a traditional Welsh style and located in the village itself. We didn’t have to think long and hard about naming our lodges - inspiration came from the beautiful islands that hug the Pembrokeshire coastline while the cottages are named after indigenous flora and fauna.
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SKOMER Bluestone’s premier lodge
These breathtaking lodges offer luxurious comfort with a liberating sense of space. Detached, with three bedrooms and three bathrooms (two of them en-suite), a Skomer sleeps six people in style. A gloriously appointed open-plan kitchen leads into the lounge area, with its mezzanine floor and impressive balcony directly above. Table and chairs are set on the patio – the perfect spot for alfresco dining on summer evenings. Sleeps 6
GRASSHOLM Perfect for larger families
This spacious detached Grassholm Lodge has four bedrooms and three bathrooms (one of them en-suite), and sleeps up to eight people - perfect for a large family. Sleeps 8
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RAMSEY
Take advantage of the views These spacious detached lodges embrace ‘upside down’ living and are designed to both tuck into the sloping valley and make the most of the amazing views. The two bedrooms and two en-suite bathrooms are on the ground floor, while the views from the studio-style kitchen and spacious lounge on the first floor will take your breath away. Sleeps 4
GATEHOLM Perfect for larger families
These spacious detached lodges have three bedrooms on the ground floor, with one en-suite bathroom and a second bathroom. Embracing ‘upside down living’, they are designed to tuck into the sloping valley, with a studio-style kitchen and spacious lounge on the first floor taking full advantage of the views. Outside, there is a patio area from which to view light pollution-free skies at night. Sleeps 6
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CALDEY
Single floor sumptuousness The Caldey lodges are semi-detached, with two bedrooms, one wet-room and a large open-plan lounge, kitchen, dining area and patio. Caldeys are ideal for two families or friends who wish to be next to each other. And if you’re extra close, we also have some ‘Caldey Connects’ with an internal connecting door. A number of Caldey lodges have been adapted so they are more suitable for guests with disabilities. The ‘Caldey Adapteds’ have wider doorways, a shower seat and handrails, and emergency pull cords. They are located throughout Bluestone. Sleeps 4
DINAS
The more the merrier The Dinas lodges have four bedrooms, two with double and two with twin/double as well as two modern wet rooms. Epitomising modern family living, the Dinas lodge includes spacious lounge/diner and a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher. Dinas lodges have an outdoor patio area with furniture, leaving you to enjoy the exceptional surroundings at your leisure. Sleeps 8
DINAS BUNKHOUSE Specially designed for large groups With double-bunks in three bedrooms, and a twin or a double in the fourth, the Bunkhouses sleep up to 14 people in style and comfort. If you’ve ever faced the problem of finding the right place to stay for staff outings, or you’re organising a group getaway and want the convenience of shared accommodation, you really need to look no further. Sleeps 14
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COTTAGES Traditional Welsh cottages
Situated right in the heart of Bluestone. Cottages offer a perfect location for those who want the convenience of being right within the village, a stones throw from many shops, restaurants and facilities.
TWO BEDROOM Ideal for couples and small families
Well appointed kitchen, dining area and cosy lounge in traditional cottage style. Upstairs there is one double bedroom and one full size bunk room. Upstairs bathroom with toilet, basin and bath/shower. (Only suitable for a maximum of 2 adults. The bunk room is only suitable for up to two children). Sleeps 4
ONE BEDROOM Perfect for couples
The one bedroom cottage consists of a large open plan living area, double bedroom with large ensuite bathroom. Equipped with a well appointed kitchen, dining area and cosy lounge with TV, digital receiver and DVD. Designed in a traditional cottage style it is ideal for couples or single occupancy. Sleeps 2
STUDIOS
The ideal location for couples These bright artist style studios are for couples or single occupancy only. Situated in the village, primarily at first floor level, they comprise a main bedroom with en-suite facilities and sitting room area. (Note these apartments do not have any kitchen facilities. They do have tea/coffee making facilities and are central to all the village restaurants.) Sleeps 2
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THE RESORT
ALL YOU NEED IS ALL WE’VE GOT Getting in the car, driving, (cursing), finding a parking space, still finding a parking space, parking, pranging... are all phrases we have happily forgotten about at Bluestone. In ‘our’ green and pleasant land, the phrase ‘popping to the shops’ means that exactly.
As we may have mentioned, Bluestone is set in 500 acres, which is not small in anyone’s book. But while the views are breathtaking, the important things are near each other which means you can relax with a holistic spa treatment in the morning and yet be hurtling through tree canopies on a zip wire in the afternoon. Highlights include The Well Spa, The Tafarn, the Adventure Centre, Steep Ravine, Blue Lagoon Water Park, Dargavel’s wine store and grocery shops and a great mix of restaurants. (Thrown in are abundant wildlife, ancient woodland and a long rich history. But this next bit is mainly about what you can find in the village.
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THE VILLAGE There’s no traffic in our village. So when you’re sipping a cappuccino in the morning sunshine, you’ll be able to do this amazing thing. It’s called ‘relax’ The village is the beating heart of Bluestone with cottages, studio apartments, shops, restaurants, a wine store and leisure facilities and blissfully traffic free. A village isn’t really a village without a pub. Ours is called the Knights Tafarn. It’s a relaxed kind of place where you’ll be welcomed by friendly staff and, in the depths of winter, a roaring log fire. Good service, good beer, and good food are the order of the day, every day. At Bluestone we love food and want you to enjoy shopping for it. Pop into the bakery for a loaf and grab a fresh coffee. Nip into Newton stores for some local bangers or some fresh veg or newspapers. Visit the Brook for books or gifts or clothing at Oak’s. Why not order your shopping essentials
before you arrive and it will be in your accommodation waiting for you. Dargavel’s Wine Store is a well-stocked off-licence situated in the Bluestone village. Drop in for a tasting session with our resident wine expert. Alongside our range of tipples we have a superb array of chocolates, cheeses and gifts. Cycling is an ideal way to get around the Bluestone site, and bicycles are available for hire so you needn’t bring your own. Children’s bikes are available for hire, as are ‘tag-alongs’ for smaller children and trailers for toddlers. Access miles of cycling routes direct from Bluestone. For those who like to take things just that little bit easier, electric golf buggies are also available to hire.
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THE YARD A covered courtyard to enjoy those long lazy summer evenings
EATING OUT What a choice! Food is one of the great pleasures in life. A fine meal can be the high point of a holiday. An exquisite dish and a glass or two of good wine in comfortable surroundings and a welcoming atmosphere can truly be an occasion to savour and remember. Sometimes, however, you don’t want anything grand. Sometimes you just want good traditional food such as our cracking Sunday lunches or our hearty breakfasts. Sometimes you want to dress for dinner. Sometimes you don’t. We understand this, and that’s why at Bluestone there’s somewhere to suit all tastes and appetites.
Located above the Tafarn, Carreg Las is Bluestone’s finest restaurant. Here we aim to provide an exceptional dining experience, using the best seasonal local produce like organic Pembrokeshire beef and lamb, local rare breed pork, locally landed sea bream, complemented with a fine wine or two. The Yard is home to The Granary and The Smithy. The restaurants specialise in pizzas, pasta, steaks, chicken, kebabs and much more all cooked to sizzling perfection right before your eyes. There’s also plenty of entertainment from live ‘bluegrass’ at the Hoedown and children’s activities at the Pirate Party.
IS TODAY TUESDAY OR WEDNESDAY? What will you discover?
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TREATMENT ROOMS Our thermal and cooling experiences will leave you feeling relaxed and revitalised, the perfect preparation for a treatment. We have saunas, steam rooms and marine based experiences, plus cooler options to refresh.
THE WELL SPA Pamper, pamper, pamper, pamper, pamper, pamper, pamper, pamper. Relax There is an actual real holy well at The Well Spa adjacent to Newton North Church just above the Spa. Like us, the ancients knew the benefit of water and healing and a holistic approach to life. Sadly, what they didn’t know was the joys of a spa experience. Which is where the Well Spa comes in. We invite you to come and pamper yourself in the elegant and tranquil environment of indulgement, this exclusive health spa situated in the centre of the village. Relax as you let the pleasant heat relieve any muscular aches, and natural products detoxify the skin and rejuvenate you. The soft lighting, luxurious treatments
and expert skills of each therapist combine to ensure the utmost attentive care to mind, body and spirit. Fifteen treatment rooms, saunas, steam rooms and hot tubs allow for body and skin treatments, as well as relaxing or toning therapies. For those who don’t want to miss a daily workout a mini-gym is at hand. On the other hand, if you’re one of those who finds chilling out can make them peckish, nutritious bites and juices are available as well as sumptuous salads and er, champagne (well we did say it was all about taking it easy). So let go and give yourself up to the experience. Relax, rejuvenate and enjoy!
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OUR UPTURNED CORACLE SHAPED BUILDING TYPE THING Experience the wildest waves, zoom the flumes and dodge the cannons.
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STEP INTO THE BLUE The Blue Lagoon waterpark Blue Lagoon is not a swimming pool. Our ‘waterpark’ features an indoor wave machine, a rapids river ride and two enclosed flume rides that leave the coracleshaped building and bring you back into the main swimming area at pool level. A lazy river exits the building to an outdoor bubble pool. There is an outdoor and indoor spa pool ideal for relaxation and fun, two interactive wet play areas – one for very young children, the other for the not so young.
There are loungers, patios, observation decks and timber walkways, the temperatures and humidity within the structure are maintained at constantly perfect levels. Overlooking the whole complex are café’s and bar areas. Oh, and in what is believed to be a world first, Blue Lagoon is heated by biomass. Warmth is provided by the nearby energy centre, which is fuelled by woodchip and miscanthus (really tall grass) grown by local farmers.
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LOVE LIFE’S LITTLE ADVENTURES Alongside the beaches, the hills, the unique coastal walks... there’s quite a lot to do right here
Bluestone is a fine place to do nothing. However, if you like trying new things, you’ll love our adventures - they are imaginatively designed for you to enjoy a unique experience either indoors or out. There should be something for everyone, from adrenaline-fuelled experiences for the more adventurous, to guided history and nature trails for those who prefer the more sedate things in life. And there’s plenty of room at Bluestone for all manner of activity, whether indoors at the Adventure Centre or honing your survival skills at Camp Smokey set deep amongst the towering pines.
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THE GREAT OUTDOORS, INDOORS Jump, slide, putt, and test your love of heights at The Adventure Centre The Adventure Centre. A giant countryside themed adventure playground with four large linked towers, complete with suspension bridges, crawl tubes, nets and ladders winding their way through, round, up and down, a climbing wall and high ropes course. A soft play area with ball pool, spiral slide and bouncy castle keep the younger ones active, while the whole family can have fun playing mini golf. Also within the Adventure Centre is ‘Discovery’ which features the NRG Zone, which has Zig Zag dance mats, Wii and
the Sportwall, which combines the fun of a light-zapping computer game with a cardio-vascular workout. Techniquest, the interactive science attraction. Loved by generations of children the LEGO room features LEGO play tables, play mats, giant soft play bricks and LEGO figures. Upstairs has a Games Zone, a mezzanine level for access to the high ropes course, a viewing area overlooking the main hall with a café that provides lighter meals and a fully stocked bar.
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STEEP RAVINE Get your adrenalin pumping at Steep Ravine, Bluestone’s awesome high ropes and adventure area. Standing on a small wooden platform, in the midst of towering pines you’re at the top of a ravine. The hillside falls steeply to a glinting stream, a hundred or so yards away. Much steeper and it would be a sheer drop. Welcome to Steep Ravine. A series of tree climbing, balancing and zipping activities 60 feet in the air, our high ropes course and zip wires are designed to challenge you physically and mentally while still having leaps of fun. Experience the thrill of reaching beyond your perceived limits. Feel the fear and do it anyway! At Base Camp we have Bushcraft sessions that bring you closer to nature and teach you the useful skills of fire making, foraging and open air cooking, shelter building and wildlife-watching. You’ll come away with
a healthy respect for the countryside and hopefully enjoy a cup of nettle tea. Camp Smokey is the perfect island venue to watch your friends and family flying overhead on the zip wires with the babbling Pen Glyn Brook coursing by it on either side. Our chef will produce lunches of bangers, spicy beans and jacket potatoes and snacks of bacon rolls, hot dogs, toasted tea cakes – all smoked of course. Woodland Warriors Laser Combat is an exhilarating team combat game using high-tech guns which fire beams of infra-red light. And because it doesn’t involve physical projectiles, players don’t get hurt or covered in paint! There are hides, ditches, bivouacs, and of course your enemy’s camp. Be prepared to get down and dirty in the mud.
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JUNIOR RANGERS
MINI RANGERS
When your kids become Junior Rangers, it’s Famous Five adventures all the way
Under 5’s are well catered for with a whole host of organised activities that help them develop new skills as well as perfecting old ones such as making a mess.
Junior Rangers is less a crèche, more an amazing experience. Under the care of professionally qualified and experienced staff, Junior Rangers (children aged between 5 and 9) play freely whilst learning about nature in a safe, car-free and stimulating environment. We vary the range of activities to suit the seasonal calendar with nature trails, bug’n’grub hunting, making bird feeders and insect houses, craft activities using seeds,
leaves and recycled materials as well as high energy games such as 5-a-side football. But don’t worry. It’s not a lesson. It’s a chance for the Junior Rangers to learn, have fun and go exploring in a natural environment or indoors when the weather isn’t at its best. They will thoroughly enjoy their time and come back with all sorts of interesting and exciting facts for you, as well as a whole load of new friends. Be warned though. They will come back dirty. And happy. And very very tired.
Under fives with a taste for the outdoors can become Mini Rangers, an hour-long, hands-on activity session in which youngsters get to grips with nature. With parental accompaniment, the children go outside in most weathers and look for mini-beasts – the bugs you’ll find in tree stumps, under rocks and many other places around Bluestone - along with leaves, flowers and other natural items.
The children bring back their finds and learn more about them from the books and learning resources available here. They will then be helped to create a lovely collage out of things they have found, while the bugs are returned outdoors.
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TRY SOMETHING NEW Holidays are a great time to try something new. Or try and get better at something old...
While technology has moved forward, those eager to step back in time should give archery a go. Armed with a bow and arrow, see how your skills measure against the rest of your family and friends.
Whoever you are, whatever you do, you can never be sure that at some point in your life you won’t find yourself stranded in some desolate wilderness without tent, compass or Kendal Mint Cake. Good job then that you took that Bushcraft class at Bluestone, and learnt how to build a shelter, make a fire from the unlikeliest of objects and discovered what plants to eat without being sick. Invaluable, great fun and memorable.
It’s a pleasure known only to golfers. Catch that little ball just right, and it flies. It really flies. You watch it soar. And all is right with the world. Then you spend the rest of the day (and possibly every spare moment for the rest of your life) trying to do it again.
Experience a day to remember with our falconry session. You will be guided through the woods to a magical hands-on experience of falconry, combining flying birds of prey with the spectacular views of the Pembrokeshire countryside.
How good is your aim? Challenge your friends and family to Laser Clay Shooting or try and get yourself on our leader board. Never tried it before? No problem. It’s a totally safe and environmentally friendly way to enjoy the thrill of hitting your mark!
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HISTORY & NATURE You don’t have to venture far for history or nature at Bluestone. After all, a lot of it sits on your very own doorstep Pembrokeshire is a county with such a lot of history that within the site of Bluestone itself, exciting things have occurred and left their mark on the landscape. The history is so interesting, in fact, that our resident Historian, Terry John, now does short walks from Newton North Church and its Holy Well following the route made by pilgrims from all over Britain given safe passage by the Knights Hospitallers. The tour also stops off at Castell Coch (Welsh translation, Red Castle) to hear its fascinating myth and legend. Canaston Wood is classed as an ‘ancient woodland’ indicating that it has been in existence for at least 300 years. Originally part of the Slebech Estate, the woods were once used for hunting deer and wild boar which were introduced into the forest in 1834. There are no deer or wild boar left in
the woods, and the only mammals you are likely to see are grey squirrels and foxes. The woods, however, are abundant with birds and insects, and wild flowers abound alongside the forest tracks and paths. If you want to know more, join our nature trail as it makes its way through Minwear and Penglyn woods through dappled glades, alongside a babbling brook and towering trees. Bluestone has also partnered with the West Wales Wildlife trust, which includes a designated nature reserve in our ancient woodland. Cycling through beautiful countryside is one of the simple pleasures in life and definitely the best way to appreciate the beauty of Bluestone. Why not join the Celtic trail, and experience 100’s of miles of cycle ways around Pembrokeshire.
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ON YOUR DOORSTEP The problem’s not so much finding something to do. It’s finding the time to fit it all in.
One of the many great things about Pembrokeshire is that its coastline is so amazing, new ways have had to be invented to discover it. Obviously the old ways still work. You can’t beat a walk along the Pembrokeshire coast path. Or a sit down and a fish while you admire the views. But you might want to consider a nostalgic outing with Bluestone’s Classic Tours. Two beautiful 1960 Bristol MW buses have been lovingly restored and are revving up ready to take you to some of Pembrokeshire’s finest attractions. You can also have fun in the water by taking a trip to see whales and dolphins or simply jumping in, if you take part in a fast growing sport called coasteering. Whatever sounds the right sort of activity for you, we’ve linked up with some of Pembrokeshire’s best activity providers to make it easy for you to have fun and explore.
IT’S ABOUT SUNLIGHT, FRESH ATLANTIC AIR AND SAND ALL OVER THE CAR. What will you discover?
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embrokeshire has got everything varied landscapes of sandy beaches, expansive woods and forests, emerald waters, secluded bays and wetlands, rolling farmlands, and majestic mountains. Through biking, swimming, sailing, hiking, canoeing and many other activities you can enjoy magnificent scenery and yet one of the best ways to enjoy the beautiful surroundings is to slow down. And fish. Enjoy a relaxing morning with an introduction to fly fishing on the lake at Bluestone. For the more experienced flyfisher our 4 day sea trout night time packages takes place on
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CLIMB, SWIM, JUMP Get your board. Surf’s up! Then try coasteering. It’s new. It’s wet. And last one in... the private Slebech Estate waters on the Eastern Cleddau River. As well as the permit to fish we offer a professional guiding service. Sea bass fishing is a rapidly growing sport in the UK, particularly fly fishing, and we are in the fortunate position to be able to offer our guests guided fishing for these incredibly exciting fighting sea fish on the beautiful Daucleddau Estuary, a few minutes away. We will meet you at your lodge take or escort you to the fishing and return you to Bluestone after your fishing trip. Fishing doesn’t get any better than this.
There are bits of the Pembrokeshire coast that are easy to see. There are bits that aren’t. Coasteering combines climbing with swimming to make sure you see all of it. From every angle. Including those bits that any normal person would consider impossible to reach. The Coasteer Safari starts on the beach near the little city of St David’s. Here you’ll meet up with your Coasteering team leaders, squeeze into a wetsuit, safety helmet and old trainers then scramble, climb and cliff jump your way around the coastline turning rocks, cliffs, caves and waves into playthings. Jumping is not compulsory. But most people like to give it a try.
If you want to stick to a more conventional adrenaline sport, Pembrokeshire has some of the best surf beaches in the country, providing perfect conditions for learning to surf. Our fully qualified and experienced coaches will guide you through your early stages of surfing, getting you confidently paddling your board, catching your first waves and riding into the beach. At this point you are surfing. Once you are looking ready, your coach will take you through the techniques you will need to get up on your feet and ride those Atlantic waves in style. Warning: surfing is highly addictive and may change your life!
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EXPLORE THE COAST There are also more gentle ways to discover the magnificent Pembrokeshire coastline Our ‘easy going’ Wildlife Canoe Trip visits the tiny hamlet of Landshipping, pops into historic Blackpool Mill, returns to Lawrenny then heads to Carew castle. You’ll learn about the area and, with a bit of luck, spot some of the more unusual flora and fauna and resident wading birds along the way. Enjoy a very special day out for all the family on open top kayaks, where you’ll head out for the day on an exploratory adventure along the foot of the spectacular Pembrokeshire sea cliffs, discovering secret coves and bays along the way, exploring caves and inlets, and
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getting up close to some of the local and visiting wildlife. If messing about on water isn’t quite your thing, quad biking on guided trails through 200 acres of National Park might be more up your alley. Spend the morning travelling through woods and valleys and traversing rivers and streams. After lunch transfer to St Justinian for a two-hour Sea Safari in powerful 12-seater Rigid Inflatable Boats (like the one in the picture) around Ramsey Island where you will experience stunning scenery and spectacular wildlife. Hold on to your hat!
WHALE & DOLPHIN WATCH An animal lovers dream. With more dolphins, puffins and seals than you can shake a stick at Pembrokeshire’s Offshore Islands are considered some of the UK’s prime whale watching locations. Board one of our purpose built vessels with a specialist guide on board and head towards Grassholm Island. An RSPB bird sanctuary, Grassholm is home to the second largest gannet colony in the Northern Hemisphere as well as puffins and seals. From here a sweep of the
surrounding waters will hopefully offer up more animals. We have regular sightings of minke whale and orca, almost daily sightings of porpoise, bottlenose and common dolphin with occasional sightings of fin and pilot whale. (NB These animals are wild. Some of them are shy. We can’t always guarantee sightings.)
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A WALK YOU CAN’T BEAT
RIDE ON
TEE TIME
It’s not a path. It’s a 186 mile long drum roll
An unforgettable experience for the whole family. Discover Pembrokeshire in the best way possible - on horseback!
Take a golf holiday in Pembrokeshire and discover golf as it should be.
The Pembrokeshire Coastal Path was established in 1970, and is 186 miles long, mostly at cliff-top level. The northern end is at Poppit Sands, near St. Dogmaels, the southern end is at Amroth. The coastline itself is similar to the Cornish coast, and walkers on the path can enjoy the sandy beaches, seaside towns, and Neolithic and Iron Age sites along the path. The walking is not strenuous, but there are inclines and narrow sections of the path, and many stiles, so some effort and fitness is required. Alternatively, you can just choose one of the gentler sections. Ask us for advice on the best section for you.
A key attraction of the coastal path is the wild flowers and birdlife. The path has a huge variety of European seabirds that are supported by the uninhabited offshore islands that act as bird sanctuaries such as Skomer, Skokholm and Ramsey Island. The trail covers almost every kind of coastal landscape from rugged cliff tops and sheltered coves to wide-open beaches and winding estuaries. Not to be missed is the 10-minute walk on the cliff top to Barafundle Bay from Stackpole. This beautiful bay unfolds itself to you with sand that shines in the sunlight and calm turquoise waters.
After a riding assessment on arrival to ensure that no one will feel frustrated or frightened, riders are assigned ponies or horses then taken on a hack through ancient woodland to explore the paths and tracks through the valley. Some of the tracks incorporate small cross country jumps for the more experienced so whatever your level, you will have an amazing time.
Tenby Golf Course, one of the oldest courses in Wales, and one of the finest backdrops for a links course anywhere. Haverfordwest Golf Club is an 18 hole par 70 golf course, situated 7 miles from Bluestone. Drive yourself to the clubhouse where there will be a coffee and bacon roll waiting. This 6000yd parkland course has breathtaking views of the Preseli Mountains and has a friendly and inviting atmosphere. Try one of our fantastic mid-week and weekend Golf packages tailored for golf enthusiasts.
PEMBROKESHIRE ATTRACTIONS
EXPLORING, TOURING, TOUCHING...
57 ATTRACTIONS
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MANOR HOUSE WILDLIFE PARK Situated by the resort town of Tenby it is owned by Anna Ryder Richardson from the TV series Changing Rooms, the Park enables visitors to interact with the animals, including Zebras, Emu’s and monkey’s.
and any other ‘ing’ you can think of
Pembrokeshire is home to some of the best attractions in Wales. And from Bluestone, you don’t have to venture far to try out a world-class rollercoaster, or visit an exotic country estate garden
Alongside the stunning natural features of Pembrokeshire, there are some manmade ones you won’t want to miss too. Oakwood, next door to Bluestone, is home to Europe’s largest wooden rollercoaster. Anna Ryder Richardson runs a conservationled world class zoo called Manor House Wildlife Park featuring walk throughs of both Lemurs and Wallabies, not to mention the on-going love story between two Siamang Gibbons, Steve and Lisa. Following seven years in isolation Steve has recently become a father aged 14. Folly Farm offers a packed day out including the famous bottle feeding of the goats. While the stunning new art gallery, Oriel Y Parc in St David’s, offers enough art to look at and art to do to keep all our budding artists satisfied.
59 ATTRACTIONS ST GOVAN’S CHAPEL One story connects Sir Gawain - King Arthur’s nephew, with the site. According to local legend, he is buried here, having retired to live out his days as a hermit after Arthur’s death.
6000 YEARS OF HISTORY With more heritage, wildlife and pleasure attractions than most, you’ll never be short of a great venue to visit in Pembrokeshire Pembrokeshire’s location on the coast has attracted invaders and religious groups in equal measure over the centuries. Visit the line of castles built by the Normans to keep out the pesky Welsh (the Norman southern side was known as ‘Little England beyond Wales’). Carew, Picton, Manorbier and Pembroke castles (to name but a few) are all worth a visit. On the religious side choose from the big St David’s Cathedral, or the tiny 13th-century
St Govan’s Chapel that is huddled among the rocks, almost at sea level and only accessible by climbing down 52 steps or the dramatic Caldey Island (home to a still active monastery). Alternatively, you might want to admire our many gardens while in Pembrokeshire. The climate here is very mild enabling us to have some of the best gardens in Wales. Don’t miss Colby Woodland Garden or the stunning National Botanical Garden of Wales.
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BEST IN THE WEST No other county in Britain has more Blue Flag beaches or Seaside Award beaches than Pembrokeshire. The close proximity of so many different beautiful beaches is one of the best things about Pembrokeshire life. Given enough free time, you could go to a different beach every day for months, without needing to cross the county line. So, with over 50 beaches to choose from we reckon you’re bound to find the one that’s perfect for you - whether you want to surf, kayak or kite surf, or just want to find somewhere peaceful to relax, sunbathe and build sandcastles.
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61 BEACHES
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63 BEACHES
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1. BROADHAVEN SOUTH
3. SOLVA
4. NEWPORT PARROG
6. TENBY SOUTH
A wide sandy bay backed by dunes that lead from The National Trust-owned Bosherston Lily ponds. Explore the boulders and ‘island’ on the west side to discover caves and springs gushing out of the cliffs. The clean stream emptying out of the lily ponds runs along this side and is perfect for small children to play in.
At high tide the beach is a narrow strip at the head of the inlet but at low tide the harbour is completely dry with the exception of a stream that runs down the middle of the harbour, providing hours of entertainment catching fish, shrimp and crabs. If you head down the beach towards the mouth of the inlet a large stretch of sand is revealed with plenty of rock pools and caves to explore. Running parallel to Solva, on the other side of the ridge is another narrow valley, which ends up at an idyllic little pebble beach. Both these valleys are meltwater valleys created during the last ice age.
A delightful stretch of coastline. It’s possible to wade across the river near the yacht club to Newport sands. The walk back round the ‘long way’ takes you alongside the estuary to the bridge. Near here is Carreg Coetan, an exposed burial chamber.
A mile and a half long, dune-backed, beach playground. There’s plenty of space at the Tenby end for families or continue eastwards for more boisterous beach activities. There are acres of beach at low tide but still plenty of room at high tide.
2. FRESHWATER WEST This sand and rocky beach is the hunting ground of the surfer always on the look out for that perfect wave; a surfers paradise. Recently Freshwater West has been a dramatic location for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and a battle scene in the Robin Hood movie directed by Ridley Scott.
5. SWANLAKE BAY Swanlake Bay is accessible only from the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, but this beach is worth the trip. A shingle beach but at low tide it reveals golden sands and rock pools, backed by low cliffs. Even at the height of summer you could be one of only a handful of visitors.
BLUESTONE
KNOW THE PEOPLE KNOW THE PLACE
65 KNOW THE PEOPLE, KNOW THE PLACE.
Many people, who stay with us, tell us the special thing about Bluestone that makes a real difference to the enjoyment of their stay is the people. We agree.
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We’ve always believed one of the things that makes a great holiday even greater are staff who are engaging, friendly and full of interesting information. From the moment you arrive, our staff go out of their way to make you feel comfortable, entertained, and cared for. You can’t beat people who have a passion for their field. Our staff are big talkers. They love to talk to guests, share information, and help people.
Review I have to say a thank you to the staff who, without knowing that I was going to come back home and publicise how they acted were without exception polite, well mannered and pro-actively chatty and conversational. It makes such a difference to your experience of a place if the people make you feel that your enjoyment and comfort really matters to them. Hayden Allen-Vercoe Lussorian, Luxury Homes & Accessories
66 KNOW THE PEOPLE, KNOW THE PLACE.
67 KNOW THE PEOPLE, KNOW THE PLACE. Blue Lagoon, Bluestone and the Activity Centre is heated by an on-site biomass energy centre, in what’s thought to be the largest system of its kind in Wales. The energy centre is owned and operated by a company called PBESCO, an offshoot of Pembrokeshire Bio-Energy (PBE), the co-operative of farmers which for the last few years has been growing miscanthus and other energy crops for Bluestone National Park Resort. Paul, an arable and livestock farmer whose land neighbours the Bluestone site, has been working on the project since 2002, when he was asked to look into the viability of energy crops by Bluestone chief executive William McNamara.
HISTORY MAN
If you happen to spot a Benedictine monk wandering through the village, his mind clearly occupied with matters spiritual, or a pilgrim, stopping by the holy well before resuming his journey to St David’s, not to mention a preacher beavering away on an illuminated manuscript then you haven’t gone mad. All three are different guises of Bluestone’s resident historian, Terry John, and his expertise is available to anyone who joins one of our regular walks and talks at Bluestone. Adopting different personas with such frequency does, however, have an effect. ‘There are times I wonder who I am,’ Terry admits. But if he has his doubts, we don’t. Terry is Bluestone’s history man. A genial font of knowledge who can bring the rich past of Pembrokeshire alive with colour and humour. Terry’s love of history started at an early age. ‘Even when I was very, very small, I was fascinated by history and pictures of ancient ruins. An ideal day out for me was never going to the beach, it was wandering round an old castle,’ admits Terry. ‘What I love is if you look at, say, the customs and superstitions of bygone eras, it gives you an idea of how people regarded their world. What they thought were the powers and influences that affected them and how they dealt with those things. People often lived their lives at such a basic level. It was easy for their crops to fail or for disease to befall their cattle, so you can see why they go through these customs – to try and ward it off. It humanises them. When you read what they worried about, they’re not some distant people – they’re humans like we are. And although there are big differences between our era and past times, the more you look at history, the more you realise people are basically the same.’
TURNING DREAMS INTO REALITY
A Pembrokeshire man by birth, William McNamara had been destined for a career in farming but during the mid 80s, as the industry went through a series of changes, William realised his future lay elsewhere. He chose to diversify into the leisure industry, and over the next 15 years, carved out such a successful career that he was awarded an OBE for services to tourism. Around fourteen years ago, however, William realised there was a gap in the market for activitybased short breaks, with an emphasis on high quality accommodation and standards of service. He also knew that in the beautiful county of Pembrokeshire, he already had the ideal setting. But William wanted something iconic. A flagship development for Wales. He envisaged a worldclass, year-round leisure and holiday destination that would be designed and built to operate in harmony with Pembrokeshire’s natural splendour. Over the next ten years, William researched and honed his vision. In 2002 he unveiled his plans. And in 2008 Bluestone became a burgeoning reality. It has grown from what Business Insider magazine called ‘the biggest and most ambitious start-up Wales has ever seen,’ into a crucial economic driver for Pembrokeshire. Ultimately, Bluestone will employ 700 people, making it one of the biggest private sector employers in the county, and inject around £35 million into the local economy every year. But it will also be at the forefront of developing green technologies in a real world setting, learning lessons that can be applied across the wider leisure industry. Ten years after William McNamara woke up with a gem of an idea, Bluestone has become what he wanted it to be; an icon for Wales.
GREEN FINGERS
Martin Brodie, Phil Merriman and Lance Osborne are responsible for the maintenance of the grounds, trees and shrubs at Bluestone. They decided to call their company Autumn Leaves “Primarily because of our age” says Martin “We’re both the wrong side of sixty and dare I say it, be in the autumn of our lives... I can’t remember where the Leaves comes from.” Phil his partner reminds him that “It was autumn and the leaves were dropping and we actually felt like dropping at the time.”
Paul has undertaken countless hours of research, grown trial plots of miscanthus and travelled to Finland and Austria to look at systems run on similar principles. The venture saves around 3000 tonnes of C02 annually.
Their hard work is evident all around Bluestone with hundreds of thousands of native trees such as oak, ash, elm and lime planted with loving care. Intensively farmed for decades, the Bluestone site had been regularly treated with pesticides and fertilisers so there was an opportunity to develop something new and exciting on the land, and in the process, encourage and attract a much wider variety of wildlife and wildflower flora and fauna.
FISH HEAVEN Tony Davies believes he has the best job in the world. A fishing guide and long-standing lover of the elusive Sewin (Sea Trout in Welsh). River to River provide a unique opportunity to fish specially selected stretches of private water on some of the finest rivers that weave their way through the beautiful heartland of West Wales and right next door to Bluestone. Through Bluestone, River to River offer a number of carefully organised programmes to enable you to select the rivers best suited to your particular skills and with their local knowledge and expertise you will be able to share a rewarding and memorable experience.
ENERGY GURU
Paul Radcliffe is director of Pembrokeshire Bio Energy which he runs with his partner Graham Perkins. Paul is also a local farmer.
“There’s nothing like the anticipation of standing in the river fishing for something big. You hear the deep splashes of big fish and, just occasionally, you hook one”, says fishing guide Tony Davies.
68 DIRECTORY
69 DIRECTORY
HANDY GUIDE TO EVERYTHING. If there is an activity that you would like to book please call 01834 862419 Book your activities in advance to avoid disappointment. FACILITIES BLUE LAGOON (INCLUDING THE WAVE & THE CAFÉ) BIKE AND BUGGY HIRE THE WELL (INCLUDING CARDIO GYM & OLIVE TREE RESTAURANT, PLUS ELEMENTS HAIR SALON.) CARREG LAS THE TAFARN THE GRANARY THE SMITHY THE BARN LANDSKER SUITE ADVENTURE CENTRE CAFÉ DARGAVELS WINE STORE GALLERY ARCADE NEWTON STORES THE BROOK MILLERS BAKERY OAKS TRADING VILLAGE GREEN PLAY AREA VILLAGE CENTRAL ATM SERVICES BABYSITTING LAUNDRY TAKEAWAY MEALS WELCOME PACKS FLOWERS LODGE BIRTHDAY DECORATIONS PACKED LUNCHES RESORT ACTIVITIES STEEP RAVINE (INCLUDING HIGH ROPES, BASE CAMP, CAMP SMOKEY, WOODLAND WARRIORS LASER COMBAT, ARCHERY, LASER CLAYS) ADVENTURE CENTRE INCLUDING MINI GOLF, SOFT PLAY, BOUNCY CASTLE, LARGE PLAY AREA, NRG ZONE, TECHNIQUEST, LEGO ROOM, SKY TRAIL, CLIMBING WALL, GIANT TEE PEE AND GAMES ZONE.
4X4 SAFARI MINI RANGERS BUSHCRAFT TECHNIQUEST ARCHERY LASER CLAY JUNIOR RANGERS KIDS DISCO TERRY JOHN’S HISTORY WALKS NATURE TRAIL TREE CLIMBING HAWK WALKS FLY FISHING GEO-CACHING WOOD CARVING MOVIE NIGHT TABLE TENNIS TREASURE HUNT CRAFTY FUN STORYTIME DRIVING RANGE WINE TASTING SHORT TENNIS OUTDOOR TENNIS VOLLEYBALL CYCLE PATHS KAYAKING ON THE LAKE SAIL BOATING ON THE LAKE OFF RESORT ACTIVITIES BLUESTONE CLASSIC BUS TOURS COARSE FISHING FLY FISHING HORSE RIDING (INCLUDING BEACH RIDE, COMBINATION SESSION AND OWN-A-PONY DAY) TREKKING WOODLAND HAWK WALK QUAD BIKING (INCLUDING TRAIL RIDING AND ARRIVE-AND-DRIVE) KAYAKING SURFING COASTEERING
CLIMBING CLEDDAU CANOE TRIP PREHISTORIC PEMBROKESHIRE TOUR OFFSHORE ISLAND WHALE AND DOLPHIN WATCHING EVENING NORTH BISHOPS PUFFIN AND SHEARWATER WATCH (BOAT TRIP) RAMSEY ISLAND BOAT TRIP GUIDED COASTAL WALKS SKOMER ISLAND BOAT TRIP GOLF IN HAVERFORDWEST GOLF CLUB BOTANIC GARDENS TOUR SPECIAL INTEREST BREAKS PHOTOGRAPHY BREAKS CYCLING BREAKS PILATES BREAKS FIT CAMP FISHING BREAKS GOLF BREAKS WALKING FESTIVAL GARDEN LOVERS BREAKS WILDLIFE LOVERS BREAKS PACKAGES THE WELL SPA - SEASONAL PACKAGES - PAMPER PACKAGES TRAIN PACKAGE BABY SENSORY PACKAGE TODDLER SENSE PACKAGE GOLF FLYFISHING - SEA TROUT NIGHT FLY FISHING EXPERIENCE - WEST WALES GAME FISHING EXPERIENCE THEMED BREAKS ST DAVID’S DAY EASTER FATHER’S DAY
SUMMER CARNIVAL MOTHER’S DAY HALLOWEEN GUY FAWKES NIGHT CHRISTMASLAND SPECIAL OCCASIONS BIRTHDAYS ANNIVERSARY’S GROUPS REUNIONS HOW TO BOOK ONLINE www.bluestonewales.com RESERVATIONS T: 01834 862 400 (OPEN 8AM - 8PM MONDAY - FRIDAY, 10AM 6PM SATURDAY AND SUNDAY) reservations@bluestonewales.com CONTACT US CUSTOMER SERVICES guestrelations@bluestonewales.com MEETINGS AND EVENTS T: 01834 862402 (OPEN 8.30 - 5PM MONDAY FRIDAY) events@bluestonewales.com HUMAN RESOURCES T: 01834 869 900 (OPEN 8.30AM 5PM MONDAY - FRIDAY) recruitment@bluestonewales.com BY POST BLUESTONE THE GRANGE CANASTON WOOD NARBERTH PEMBROKESHIRE SA67 8DE
AFTER A WELL EARNED REST SANTA IS NOW RECRUITING FOR MORE LITTLE HELPERS. HAVE YOU GOT WHAT IT TAKES TO GET THROUGH ELF SCHOOL?
‘KINGDOM OF THE ELVES’ Why not take a break this Christmas and get away from it all. Bluestone National Park Resort proudly presents ‘Kingdom of the Elves’ at Christmasland. Beginning in November 2011 children of all ages get the chance to become a bona fide elf. Highlights of their training will include Elf Transformation, Santa’s Woodland Workshop, Elf Cooking Camp, the Listening Treehouse and the fantastic Elf Garden Meadow, where children will learn all about the wonders of nature.
If you’d like to visit Christmasland, be sure to book early to avoid disappointment. Bluestone will have a whole host of activities and events that are all geared towards creating an unforgettable Christmas.
To take part in Christmasland - ‘Kingdom of the Elves’ book now on 01834 862400 or visit us online at www.bluestonewales.com for more information
70 MAP
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ROAD MAP WALES
Fishguard St Davids
BLUESTONE A40
Haverfordwest Milford Haven Pembroke
A48
Edinburgh
Carmarthen
A4075
49
Saundersfoot Tenby
Neath LLanelli 42
Swansea
2
Port Talbot
23
M4
Dublin
Manchester
Newport 32
Bridgend Cardiff
Cardiff Bristol
London
HOW TO BOOK ONLINE www.bluestonewales.com RESERVATIONS T: 01834 862 400 (Open 8am - 8pm Monday - Friday, 10am - 6pm Saturday and Sunday) reservations@bluestonewales.com
national park resort
HOW TO BOOK ONLINE www.bluestonewales.com RESERVATIONS T: 01834 862 400 (Open 8am - 8pm Monday - Friday, 10am - 6pm Saturday and Sunday) reservations@bluestonewales.com
national park resort