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We stayed at many hostels in the Southwest, of varying
levels of accommodation. I want to share
with you the best of our travels.
The Aille River Hostel in Doolin in County Clare was a stand
out. It is supremely located along a
riverbank, with the option to camp out bank the grassy yard, or reserve a dorm
room or private room inside. The biggest
perks here are the free internet access (there is one desktop available) and
free laundry (free wash, dryer is 1 euro).
This hostel is probably only place in Ireland where travelers can do
their laundry for free.
The best facilities I found were at Kilfenora Hostel in
Kilfenora, County Clare. A brand new
hostel, the kitchen is equipped with a top of the line stove, as well as any
pot or pan you can possibly desire. The
washer and dryer are brand new. And the
entertainment room has a flat screen TV and two desktops for internet access.
The loveliest setting, inside and out, I found to be the
Greenwood Hostel in Templenoe, County Kerry.
Located in a gently restored farmhouse, the rooms are all wood, some
huge skylights, each tastefully decorated, and with a cozy beds. The bathroom has tons of natural light, a
huge plant, and lots of wood. The dining
area is also spacious and wooden, with a unique collection of teapots. The living room area has a fireplace and
piano for your pleasure. The farmhouse
is surrounded by gardens and with a view of the water.
The best location for a hostel was the Kinlay House Hostel
in Cork City, Country Cork. Located on a
hill in the Shandon area of the city, it has a wonderful view and is a perfect
hub for exploring any area of the city.
The most fun hostel to stay at, in terms of social
environment, was the Russagh Mill Hostel, in Skibbereen, County Cork. Run by rock-climbers, it attracts a cool
crowd of young travelers who have adventurous spirits. There
is always something happening in the evenings - a huge dinner, a
booze/dessert party, good music and conversation. I like the spirit of this place.
That's it. The best
of the Southwest. I encourage you to
stay at these places and to judge for yourself.
Written by Liz O'Malley - Summer of Travel 2007
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