This is a real gem of a hostel. You can check it out on www.ionahostel.com. The hostel is a good 20 minute walk from the Iona ferry terminal and the village, but it is well worth it. It is clearly signposted from the ferry terminal and easy enough to find, given that there is only one road on the island.
On my arrival, I was given a very warm welcome by the owner, and introduced to other guests who were around. I found the hostel to be a warm welcoming place overall. There is an excellent self-catering kitchen which was very well equipped, and one long table encouraging guests to socialise. There was also a drying room, and proper bathrooms--i.e. not rows of cublicles, but individual toilet and s
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On my arrival, I was given a very warm welcome by the owner, and introduced to other guests who were around. I found the hostel to be a warm welcoming place overall. There is an excellent self-catering kitchen which was very well equipped, and one long table encouraging guests to socialise. There was also a drying room, and proper bathrooms--i.e. not rows of cublicles, but individual toilet and shower rooms with plenty of space to get dried and dressed without getting your clothes soaked.
I slept in a four bedded room with two other girls. They were big solid pine bunks and very comfortable. Each person had a very large storage area. Bedding is provided.
This was excellent value for money at £12.50 a night. I have stayed in many hostels in Scotland, and this wasthe best by a long shot.
The hostel is part of a working farm, and to access it from the road you have to walk across the grass around a field. It is very close to North Shore beach--off road access--just go across the fields at the back. This is a beautiful, clean beach with crystal clear water, and I had the place to myself. If you're going out after dark you will need a torch [flashlight]. There is a shop in the village, but there is a limited, expensive choice of foods, so stock up on supplies on the mainland.
This is not a party hostel. Many people come here for peace and reflection. There is no TV, payphone, internet access, stereo etc. Check out is before 10.30am. The hostel is closed 2-4pm. Check in is from 4pm-7.30pm. Quiet hours are 10pm-8am.
My only regret is that I only stayed for one night (in September 2003). I wish I could have stayed there longer.
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