Hillside Country Retreat — Hotel in Balladong

We stayed here on the weekend of the 24 June 2023 in the Morris ensuite room. The weather was colder than we are used to but the room was well heated with either wood fire or reverse cycle. The timber floors did creak but after we settled in we didn't notice it at all. The lighting in the bathroom wasn't ideal for shaving or make-up, but it was all nicely clean. We had a Bed & Breakfast stay, which normally we wouldn't entertain because we find it uncomfortable being in someone's house with other people. But the units were not part of the house, and breakfast was in the gazebo room about 50 metres away surrounded by trees. And breakfast both mornings was a great way to start the day on a positive note. One must keep in mind that it is an old property so the buildings and grounds are not without imperfections, but that is part of the character of the property which is a peaceful oasis in a sometimes far too chaotic world. It was also a pleasure to meet Joy who sees herself as the custodian of the property, but is in fact, more like the energy that sustains it, and makes it such a delightful place to visit. Finding a place to stay that you want to come back to is like finding a treasure. Next time we plan a getaway to York, we will do our best to do so around when we can book a room (or chalet) at Hillside...

Although I personally haven’t stayed at Hillside, one of my best friends did with her partner and dog, and they all loved it.

The reason for this review is to promote the owner of this residence for something lovely she did for me.

I called from the other side of the country asking if there was anywhere locally that would be able to deliver a bottle of champagne to my friends staying with her as it was a special time for them and they had just done something on my behalf that I was very grateful for. Upon hearing this, the owner immediately offered her assistance and genuinely wanted to help me. She went down to the bottle shop, bought the champagne and waited until my friends returned that evening to personally give it to them. I was so overwhelmed by the kindness and willingness to help I just had to write a review.

In summary, if you want somewhere lovely to stay, with an owner who genuinely cares about her customers’ experience and is willing to help with just about anything, look no further than...

9 people, 3 generations and one toy poodle. We all got together for Easter in the 4 bedroom house, which we vooked for 7 nights. As the retired couple my husband and I went a day early. It was lovely to meet Joy, who was very welcoming and informative regarding the property. The rustic accomodation was well appointed and very clean. As we were alone for the first breakfast we enjoyed the wonderful meal provided by Joy in the old tea rooms on the property. Once the family arrived there was plenty of room for each of us. The town centre was within easy walking distance and we able to eat out or in, as it suited us at the time. (Not having to get into the car). We held our annual Easter Egg hunt being watched closely by the two horses from the neighbouring property. All in all a great place to...