The Cheapest Rooms in Scotland - Stay in a Hostel in Scotland

Cheap Scotland Hostels for Decent Rooms, Friendly Atmosphere, Good Locations

Hostels have come a long way from the days when they were rough and ready bunkhouses and camping barns for student backpackers. Though there are still plenty of those around, nowadays hostels cater to families and seniors, some have private rooms, some offer breakfasts and cooked meals, some have bistros and bars. It is even possible to hire an entire castle, at hostel prices, for a wedding or big family gathering.

Still The Cheapest Rooms Around

Somethings don't change though. Hostels are still basic accommodation - but if you are touring in Scotland, the magnificent scenery is probably all the luxury you need. And hostels in Scotland provide:

• clean, dry, warm rooms
• often in historic buildings
• popular locations
• friendly company.

And all this in places where shelling out £15 per night would be considered a king's ransom.

There are two main hostel booking organizations in Scotland.

Scottish Youth Hostels Association

Not just Scottish and not only for youth, the SYHA is Scotland's oldest hostel organization and is affiliated with the International Youth Hostelling Federation. So if you are already a member of another affiliated national hostel organization, you're all set. Joining is easy though (sign up when you arrive at a hostel or join online)- and reasonably priced for adults and seniors. Juniors, under 16, and students in full-time education can join free. Membership opens up a selection of about 70 hostels all over Scotland, including a number of affiliated, independent hostels.

The SYHA website is set up to help you choose:

• city hostels
• family hostels
• rustic hostels
• island hostels
• active and adventure hostels
• walkers hostels
• mountain-biking hostels, many of which are members of the Visit Scotland Cyclists Welcome scheme
• wildlife/marine hostels[/link">
• group hostels

SYHA also operates a variety of activity vacations.

Scottish Independent Hostels

Claiming to be Scotland's largest hostel organization, SIH promotes at least 100 hostel members, ranging from urban high-rises to rustic wigwams, bunkhouses, bothies and barns. Most promise hot showers and self-catering facilities.

While there is a good deal of variety in the character of SIH hostels and all ages are catered for, the hostels in this group do seem to be of the more traditional kind, less geared to families and older adults.

There is no membership requirement for SIH hostels, which are listed on the SIH website. A handy, packable guide, the Blue Hostel Guide, is available at most Scottish Tourist Information offices, or by writing to:
Scottish Independent Hostels
PO Box 7024
Fort William, PH33 6YX, Scotland.