Family & Pet-Friendly Accessible Accommodation.Adam Smark, our team member here at Accessible Accommodation, checked out one of our top five accessible places to stay in New South Wales.A recent amputee, Adam understands the challenges in adjusting to a life where accessibility is crucial for his mobility. When Adam uses his prosthetic, he has more flexibility on where to stay. However, we asked Adam to critique Hollyhall as a part-time wheelchair user. This is his story: The Setting:Hollyhall is a working farm and Equestrian Training Centre set in The Southern Highlands, between Sydney and Melbourne. My partner Tracy loves horses, so when I told her we were going to stay at Hollyhall, she jumped at the chance. As we entered the automatic gates and drove down the gravel road, the last remaining autumn leaves, a nip in the air and lush green grass greeted us. Jan and John, the owners ensured the wood fire was burning for our arrival into this cosy cottage.

Hollyhall Farm – An Accessible ParadiseDuring our recent stay at Hollyhall Farm in the Southern Highlands, we had an incredible experience that I cannot recommend enough. As a family with a daughter (Grace), who relies on a wheelchair due to a rare genetic movement disorder, finding suitable accommodation can be challenging. However, Jan and John, the hosts of Hollyhall Farm, went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and satisfaction throughout our stay. Hollyhall Farm really was An Accessible Paradise. A Warm Welcome at An Accessible ParadiseFrom the moment we arrived, Jan and John greeted us warmly and made sure we had everything we needed. They even provided us with a commode to facilitate Grace's needs. It was evident that they truly understood the unique challenges faced by families living with disabilities. Each night, they would check in on us and ensure we had enough wood for the fire, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, they organized a special bonfire experience for our boys, showing their kindness and generosity. A Truly Accessible CottageThe accessibility of the cottage was remarkable. It was designed to be fully wheelchair accessible and even had a hoist available. This attention to detail and consideration for individuals with disabilities made our stay incredibly smooth and stress-free.The cottage itself was well-equipped with essential pantry items and even had a coffee machine for those much-needed morning pick-me-ups. The cleanliness and warmth of the cottage was exceptional, and the beds provided a comfortable and restful night's sleep. Meeting The Locals at Hollyhall FarmOne of the highlights of our stay was the opportunity for Grace to go horse riding. The horses at Hollyhall Farm were remarkable, displaying gentleness and understanding. With the help of her father and brother, Grace was able to enjoy horse riding several times during our stay. Jan, in particular, was determined to make equestrian experiences accessible to people with disabilities, and her dedication truly shone through.

Travelling is a wonderful way to explore new places, relax and create lasting memories. Especially if the swimming pool is accessible! For individuals with mobility challenges, finding properties that offer accessible amenities like pools with roll-in entry, grab rails or pool hoists can make a world of difference to their travel experiences. In this blog, discover properties that prioritise inclusivity by providing accessible pool facilities.

Accessible AND Pet-Friendly Accommodation- is that possible? Yes, it is! It used to be such a challenge finding accommodation that is truly accessible, let alone allowing us to take our treasured pooch on a holiday. Not anymore.Accessible Accommodation have several pet-friendly holiday accommodation locations around Australia. Our tribe of property owners are dog lovers too. Let me share them with you.CITY PET-FRIENDLY STAYSVictoriaQuest Mont AlbertPet-friendly apartments. No longer do you have to stress about leaving your best friend behind.Quest St Kilda RoadStay in the beautiful apartments in St Kilda with your pet.Quest DandenongFeel at home in peaceful surroundings. Small/Medium dogs are accepted, fee applies.Quest Dandenong CentralFully accessible property with five accessible apartments. Pets are welcome.

A Memorable Stay at Coochiemudlo IslandOne of Accessible Accommodation's guests, Karen Gillies shares about her stay in September 2023 at one of our exclusive properties, 7 on Merindah on Coochiemudlo Island.Our stay at 7 on Merindah on Coochiemudlo Island was an experience worth sharing. My recent visit with my carer Nettie left us truly impressed with the impeccable accessibility and overall comfort that this accommodation offered.In this blog, I'll recount our delightful stay at 7 on Merindah, highlighting its outstanding accessibility features and the warm community we encountered on our trip. Accessible Pet-Friendly StayFrom the moment we arrived at 7 on Merindah, it was evident that accessibility was a top priority. The property excelled in making everyone feel welcome, regardless of their mobility needs. The wide hallways were just the beginning; the entire space was designed with accessibility in mind. This thoughtful approach extended to the kitchen, where I could easily access the kettle, sink and microwave – a detail that had been lacking in previous places I have stayed in.One standout feature was the presence of a shower commode onsite, a convenience that made our trip much smoother. Usually, we had to bring our own but 7 on Merindah had thought of everything. 7 on Merindah's dog-friendly policy was a game-changer for us and our beloved furry companion, Sasha. The accommodation made it easy for her to be a part of our trip, ensuring her comfort and happiness throughout our stay. The island's welcoming attitude towards dogs was a breath of fresh air.

Picture this…..Accessible Accommodation set in the Southern Highlands. Hollyhall Farm offers full accessibility, from the moment you enter this brand new cottage, tastefully decorated in a bright and cheery horse theme.Free-flowing open plan living, this pet-friendly accommodation offers guests the use of a patient lifter hoist, electric bed, an indoor heated swimming pool with a pool hoist, accessible tennis court, Equine Therapy and much, much more! Owned by Johnny (who is a wheelchair user) and his wife Jan, Hollyhall caters from low to the HIGHEST DISABILITY needs. Pool and ponies, horses and nature This three-bedroom cottage shares its site with a busy equestrian facility that sees riders and pupils coming and going every day. Surrounded by lush farmland, placid horses and miniature ponies greet you. Watch the riders train during the day, stroll along with the concrete and gravel path, then enjoy the solitude, and the glorious Highlands night. A place for respite, holidays and short term accessible accommodation. You'll get to meet Ted, a spoilt rotten miniature pony who keeps the horses in line and the guests entertained. He loves cuddles and will sell his soul for carrots. Ted and Johnny (the owner pictured below) will show you around the cottage and the farm. Some paths are gravel, others are cement, giving you the opportunity to explore this working Farmstay. As Johnny is a wheelchair user himself, the horses are accustomed to wheelchairs and will be very friendly and interactive, allowing guests to take part in horse therapy if they choose at an additional cost.Fun times!This accessible accommodation is cosy in winter and a home away from home. A place for families to get together and create memories around the bright bold, dining table or the log fire. Furthermore, double glazing keeps the place warm in winter, cool in summer.