Find out why one guest has visited Bluestone more than 150 times
“It’s not just where you go – it’s how you feel when you’re there"
Find out why one guest has visited Bluestone more than 150 times
For most people, a holiday is a one-off escape – a chance to relax, recharge, and make memories before returning to the routine of daily life. But for Margaret Evans, Bluestone National Park Resort is more than just a holiday destination. It’s a second home. A place where she’s not just a guest, but part of the family.
Over the years, the 73-year-old from Carmarthenshire, has returned to the award-winning resort 150 times, making her one of its most devoted visitors since opening its doors in 2008. Her story is more than just personal loyalty – it speaks to a wider truth about the power of great hospitality in a UK industry that contributes £93 billion to the economy annually and employs 3.5 million people*.
At a time when travel trends are shifting towards experience-led stays, Bluestone’s ability to develop deep guest connections is a lesson in how to stand out in a competitive market – especially in an era where corporate holiday park giants dominate the industry.
A home away from home
Margaret’s journey with Bluestone began on June 11th, 2010, when she attended a team-building event through her employer at the time. As part of the experience, she was offered a complimentary midweek break in early 2011. From there, she was hooked.
By June 2011, she had booked her first paid visit, and soon she and her husband, Brian, were coming every other weekend. “My mother-in-law was in a residential home nearby, so it worked perfectly for us to do long weekends,” she recalls. Bluestone became a place for both relaxation and quality time with loved ones.
For Margaret, it wasn’t just about the break from routine – it was about the feeling of belonging. “From the moment I arrived, I just felt at home,” she says. “It’s not just the beautiful surroundings – it’s the people. They remember your name, they ask about your family, and they genuinely care. You don’t get that everywhere.”
The power of great hospitality
Margaret fondly remembers how Bluestone has evolved over the years. “Back then, we had The Yard and Carreg Las upstairs – now called Oak Tree. It was very à la carte, and we used to go every Saturday. My group would easily spend the whole evening there with our lovely food and G&Ts!”
Yet despite its growth, Bluestone has maintained its personal touch – something Margaret believes sets it apart from larger chain resorts. “We always stay in Lodge No. 8 on the lake, and the staff know our routine. They remember that I love a G&T and always stop for a chat when we’re walking around.”
Her loyalty hasn’t gone unnoticed. For her 50th visit, Bluestone’s Chief Executive William McNamara took her out for lunch and invited her to bring ten guests – choosing staff from different departments as a thank-you. “We still go for a cup of tea now and again when we’re on resort!” she says.
A place for every chapter of life
Margaret’s visits have evolved with her life’s milestones. She and Brian first came to relax after a busy work week. Then, as grandparents, they brought their children and grandchildren – many of whom still return today as young adults with their own friends and partners.
“Every November, we’d come for Kingdom of the Elves, and watching the grandchildren experience that magic was unforgettable,” she says. Even now, Bluestone remains a constant in her family’s traditions. “We have two grandchildren in Scotland and three in Llandeilo, so we plan our trips around when we can all come together.”
Beyond family, Bluestone has also been a gathering place for friends. “We have friends from Florida and Ohio who have visited, and every year, our friends from the Lake District still come with us annually. They call it ‘the posh Center Parcs.’”
Margaret and her husband also love exploring Pembrokeshire, visiting local areas outside Bluestone, and showing their friends around the resort. “We love taking them around in our buggy and introducing them to all the amenities available on park.”
The secret to guest loyalty
Margaret’s routine at Bluestone is simple, yet meaningful. She starts her mornings sitting outside her lodge by the lake with a coffee. She enjoys a weekly pub meal on Friday nights and is always at the bar watching the rugby when the Six Nations is on. Sundays are for chilling in the lodge, and games of dominoes and cards.
“Bluestone even has its own personalised Monopoly board, which my grandchildren loved playing,” she laughs.
When asked what makes Bluestone so special, Margaret sums it up simply: “It’s not just where you go – it’s how you feel when you’re there. Bluestone makes you feel valued, cared for, and part of something bigger than just a holiday. That’s real hospitality.”
What’s next?
Despite visiting nearly 150 times, Margaret has no plans to slow down. She already books at least one year ahead.
Until then, you’ll find her in her favourite spots: the café (Tŷ Coffi) every Saturday morning, the Serendome bar watching the kids play, or simply outside her lodge with a bottle of wine on a sunny day – her definition of bliss.
In a world of faceless online bookings and, quite often, impersonal service, Bluestone’s ability to make one guest return 150 times and counting is an achievement few in the industry can match. As Wales continues to rise as a top UK staycation destination, Bluestone proves that home isn’t always where you live – it’s where you feel you belong.