Where to go on holiday to connect with nature

Head to Bluestone National Park with the family for some quality time outdoors away from screens, says Nick Judd

(All images courtesy of Bluestone National Park)

The fast-pace of contemporary life can be overwhelming, and the importance of logging off, shutting down and disconnecting shouldn't be forgotten. Like many young families, ours can be, at times, increasingly dictated by technology, which is why we decided to turn off our screens and enjoy the stunning natural setting at Bluestone National Park Resort. Fresh air, new adventures and time together outside.

When planning our stay, it was a fine line between loading up on outdoor activities and taking time to simply be in the countryside. The weather forced our hand, for our trip coincided with the remnants of the Beast from the East, but we’re outdoor people and we found plenty to do among Bluestone’s tall trees and green spaces. That’s what jackets and wellies were made for, right? And put it this way, you haven’t lived until you’ve toasted marshmallows around an open fire in the snow.

The great outdoors

From meandering walks to zip wires, your adventure can be as thrilling as you make it. We took great pleasure from simply watching rabbits playing around our lodge or stopping to admire the views of Pembrokeshire’s surrounding hills from the resort’s nature trails and winding walkways.

However, it was the area around Camp Smokey, a rustic al fresco dining area surrounded by outdoor activities deep in the valley, where we found a treasure trove of things to do. After fuelling up on said marshmallows, we explored bug lodges and made dens before tackling the more energetic opportunities.

Ups and downs

For the little ones it was tree climbing, gold digging and woodland games. For us big kids, it was the zip wire and high ropes that overlook a steep ravine and meandering stream. Your kids can also become Bluestone Rangers – with activities for 0-3, 4-7 and 8-12 age groups – which involves them learning and exploring the surroundings. There is also a choice of unaccompanied sessions, meaning that you can wave your children off on an adventure with the Bluestone Ranger team while you pop to the Well Spa Retreat and unwind. You can then regroup and share your tales of adventure over dinner in the open air.

Sadly, we had to concede defeat when it came to kayaking, such was the cold. We’ll save that for next time, when we’ll no doubt explore the stunning coastline on Bluestone’s doorstep, too.

Whatever time of year you visit, keep an eye out for the nature trails. Our trip coincided with the climax of the interactive Winter Lights, a magical display featuring noisy bugs, giant animals and sparkling lights. It was a wonderful way to walk off dinner, and a fitting climax to a memorable, and screen-free, stay.

To book an unforgettable family break and make memories you'll cherish forever, visit Bluestone's website