Consumer group Which? has named Bluestone National Park Resort the best holiday park in Wales and the third best in the UK, praising its 500-acre setting in Narberth, Pembrokeshire. The verdict read: 'There may be just one resort, but families needn't venture anywhere else.' However, a child-free visit by travel writer Portia Jones reveals the resort also excels as an adults-only retreat.
Arrival and First Impressions
Jones arrived outside school holidays to avoid crowds and noise. The check-in process was quick, with access to facilities from 11 a.m. Guests are assigned a golf buggy for navigating the car-free site, which includes lakes, woodland, an activity hub, a tropical pool, and a pastel-coloured village.
The Solva Lodge, a premium option, featured spacious open-plan living, bi-fold doors, a master en-suite, and a private patio. The kitchen was fully equipped for self-catering, including a dishwasher and microwave.
Subtropical Paradise Pool
The indoor water park, Subtropical Paradise, is a key attraction. Despite visiting in late afternoon, the pool was calm, with many adults swimming without children. Facilities include a lazy river, flumes, spa pools, and a kids' area. Jones noted the absence of rowdy behaviour, describing the atmosphere as 'remarkably chill'.
Outside spa pools offered quiet moments for parents escaping children. One mother whispered: 'I left them with their dad in the waves. He'll cope.'
Dining and Evening Atmosphere
The Knights Tafarn pub in the resort village serves classics like burgers and curries, plus a children's menu. Jones enjoyed Bluestone's own gin and tonic while a live reggae band played. The wholesome vibe was likened to a modern Hi-de-Hi!.
Other dining options include Oak Tree Restaurant for Italian classics, Farmhouse Grill for families, and NRG Lab Café. For adults, Black Pool Mill offers breakfast and light lunches in a Grade II* listed Georgian building, with locally sourced produce and afternoon tea.
Well Spa Retreat and Seaweed Bath
The Well Spa Retreat, for ages 14 and over, features a Celtic Thermal Suite with six pods: herbal steam room, ice pod, brick sauna, and Celtic sauna infused with Pembrokeshire bracken. Jones described the circuit as 'gloriously permitted laziness' and emerged feeling 'fully human again' after a seaweed bath infused with Welsh sea salt and minerals from Câr-y-Môr.
The hydrotherapy pool was serene, with warm water and gentle jets, free from children. Treatments include bamboo massages, deluxe pedicures, and personalised facials.
Activities for Adults
While most activities are family-oriented, Jones tried kayaking on the private lake, surrounded by wildlife and woodland. The Serendome, an indoor adventure area under a giant dome, offers a sky walk with 24 climbing stations across three levels. The Hive includes messy play, soft play, and a multi-court arena.
For more thrills, the nearby coast offers coasteering and sea kayaking, with equipment hire and guided sessions available.
Final Verdict
Jones concluded that Bluestone works well for child-free breaks, offering a low-stress getaway with spa, pools, dining, and activities all on site. Midweek breaks and group bookings can reduce costs. She noted: 'Without children, you don't have to factor in the extra cost of activities, so there's more cash for spa treatments.'
Prices and bookings are available at bluestonewales.com.
