Pillo Hotel... A hotel review with a difference (a

three year old campaign)

Hotel reviews are a common fixture within our try section, there is one small difference this time around as this was a family trip with my 3 year old foster son who we can refer to as S.

Since S came into my care in February I haven’t personally done a hotel review and we haven’t been on any overnight trips, so my mission was to tick off both boxes. After researching online and speaking to family I soon came to realise that in N.I/Ireland is so limited with the amount of hotels that can truly say they cater for families, yes all welcome children but do they have facilities in place that they will enjoy?

I found the Pillo Hotel & Leisure Club in Ashbourne, County Meath, and from the outset it seemed ideal on so many levels. I was compelled to reach out and express my interest in staying and was delighted that with the help of Francesca their events Manager we were able to arrange our first family trip away. Let me tell you all about it.

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warmth and professionalism. The check-in process was smooth, and the staff were incredibly accommodating, making us feel welcome and ensuring we had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. Francesa had arranged tickets for us to spend the day in Emerald Park. We picked these up and headed off.

After our fun filled day we returned to the hotel around 5pm. I was completely blown away by the room, a Junior Suite was provided, it was spacious and modern, with a super king-size bed that could easily fit a family. The room was equipped with all the necessary amenities, including complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, which was a great plus for both of us. I could catch up on work on my laptop while the wee man indulged in some Paw Patrol on the tablet.

We chilled for a bit then headed to the Pool, it was definitely one of the standout features. The Clannlife Leisure Centre includes a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and Jacuzzi, providing guests with ample opportunities to relax and unwind. We spent some quality time in the swimming pool, S loved it, he is such a waterbaby. It was clean, well-maintained, and family-friendly, which made our stay even more enjoyable

We dined at the hotel’s restaurant, which offered a diverse menu catering to both adults and children. The staff were attentive and ensured we had a pleasant dining experience. I had a lovely Chicken Caesar salad, large Vino, S had Sausage’s, Potatoes & Gravy and we split a dessert - The fresh cream Profiteroles with milk chocolate - so moorish

Apart from the Pool the highlight of our stay for S was the sensory room. After dinner we had the opportunity to use it from 7pm. It was filled with various sensory equipment, including bubble tubes and interactive panels, creating a soothing atmosphere that helped him relax before getting ready for bed.

My foster son has sensory processing needs, so this was perfect - he kept referring to it as ‘his room’ even in the days after we left, asking if we could go back. It provided a calming and engaging environment, oh and access was private offering safe space for some needed one on one time with your child/children.

I also learned that they have a two-bedroom suite, catering to families with children who have sensory needs

As a single gay man, I was pleased to find that the Pillo Hotel was welcoming and inclusive. The staff were friendly and professional, and we felt comfortable throughout our stay. The hotel’s atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, catering to a diverse range of guests, including families, business travelers, and couples.

Our stay was a memorable and positive experience, the amenities and location made it an ideal choice for us. I cannot wait to return in the future and experience more of what this wonderful hotel has to offer.

For more information or to book your stay, you can visit the www.pillohotelashbourne.com

Thank you kindly for your hospitality Daniel May

SOME HELPFUL INFO:

Accommodation: The Pillo Hotel boasts 148 contemporary rooms designed for maximum comfort. Guests can choose from deluxe double rooms, family rooms, and junior suites, each equipped with modern amenities such as highdefinition flat-screen TVs, complimentary highspeed Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities, and spacious, well-lit working areas. The rooms feature luxurious king-size beds with crisp linen sheets, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. The hotel also offers accessible rooms for guests with disabilities Meetings and Events - For business travelers, the Pillo Hotel offers extensive meeting and event facilities. With seven meeting rooms and over 9000 square feet of exhibition space, the hotel is wellequipped to host conferences, corporate events, and private functions. The hotel’s convenient location near the N2 and the M50 motorway enhances its appeal as a corporate venue

Additional Amenities - Guests at the Pillo Hotel can enjoy numerous additional amenities, including complimentary on-site parking, an electric vehicle charging station, and free cancellation up to 48 hours prior to arrival. The hotel is non-smoking and provides 24-hour reception and room service, ensuring guests’ needs are met around the clock Nearby Attractions: Besides being close to Emerald Park, the hotel is ideally located for exploring other attractions in the area, such as Dublin Zoo and the historic sites of the Boyne Valley, including Newgrange. The proximity to Dublin City Centre also allows guests to easily explore the city’s cultural landmarks, shopping districts, and nightlife