Now we have on-line booking agencies (Hostelworld, Hostelbookers) and info forums (TripAdvisor) the various hostel affiliations may seem irrelevant. But for the record there are 4 hostel groups and it's worth checking their websites because not all hostels are individually registered with agencies. Here's a quick Q&A
The original youth hostels, they were set up for hill walkers.
Many are in interesting old buildings or remote locations.
Recently they have opened some big new city hostels.
Sadly, some of the more remote, simple hostels have been closed.
In theory you need a membership card, but some hostels don't care.
Of course, the Republic and Northern Ireland have separate branches...
1. An Oige
- pronounced an oyga , means youth
2. Hostelling International Northern Ireland
2. Independent Hostels
Any hostel not in HI. No membership cards.
Most are in one (or both) of these co-ops:
1. Independent Hostels in Ireland (IHI)
- tend to be smaller, intimate hostels (not always)
2. Independent Holiday Hostels (IHH)
- tend to be more business oriented (not always)
Each group has a few great hostels, lots of OK ones & a few dire ones.
Q: Are there any hostels outside these groups?
Yes. Some are in no group. They include some of the best. Also, some of the worst.
They're hard to find. But it's worth keeping your eyes open.
Well - what sort do you like ? Busy, quiet, city, country, big, tiny ?
What really makes the hostel is the other hostellers - and that's unpredictable!
But here's a few places in the North-West we like to recommend:
- selected by -
- one of ireland's original independent hostels
Here are some hostels we like or have heard recommended.
We look for a laid-back, individual touch.
All are well run, with facilities at least adequate.
There are lots of other hostels just as good.
An Oige & hini are "official" hostels, and may ask for membership
PORTSTEWART
Causeway Coast Hostel - 4 Victoria Terrace -
tel: (from N.I. 028 - / from Eire 048 - ) 70 833789
A sociable townhouse in this pleasant resort - which is far more laid back than neighbouring Portrush...
OMAGH
Omagh Independent Hostel - 9a Waterworks Road
tel: (from N.I. 028 - / from Eire 048 - ) 82 241973
A friendly hostel on a hill a couple of miles out of town, where you'll get a warm welcome.
MALIN HEAD
Sandrock Holiday Hostel - Port Ronan Pier - 077 70289
Malin Head Hostel - 074 9370309
When our learned friend Chris Scherney named his little girl Malin, he knew what he was doing. It's one of the most charming corners of Ireland. Catch it in late summer when the fuscia and montbretia are burning red and orange on the hills. These two cosy, friendly hostels may be busy so book ahead, and enjoy!
GLENCOLMCILLE
Dooey Hostel - 074 9730130
Sunk into the rock as if built by trolls. This is the fortress of the O'Donnells, the leading lights of independent hostelling; and friendly you'll find them. A great landscape; next stop, Boston.
KILCAR
Derrylahan Hostel - 074 9738079
Another pioneer of independent hostels, this place bubbles with good spirits
co. sligo
LOUGH ARROW
The Gyreum Eco-Lodge - 071 9165994
A big green eco-dome.! From the viewing loft, look out on the most intensely archaeological region of Ireland - megalithomania! It is also very beautiful -lakes and woods and ivy-covered priories abound. Stay for days - there is absolutely no reason to go anywhere else.
co. mayo
POLLATOMISH
Kilcommon Lodge - 097 84621
Fritz & Betty know exactly how to run a hostel in the far, lost west...
KILMEENA
Country School Hostel - 098 41099
Converted schoolhouse with a growing reputation for comfort; good base to visit Westport.
CROSS
The Courtyard Hostel - 094 9546203
A relaxed, sit-down-and-put-your-feet-up kind of place, and hostellers appreciate that.
INISHBOFIN
Inishbofin Island Hostel - 095 45855
This quiet island has its charms, but the hostel is unexceptional. But time after time the magic of the place comes alive, strangers meet here, and come away raving about the place.
that's all !