Tobermory Youth Hostel (SYHA), Highlands
Main Street, Tobermory, Isle of Mull
Reviewed by Gary
We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with the SYHA so that you might enjoy inexpensive, quality, approved accommodation in some fantastic locations.
Tobermory on the Isle of Mull has long been famous for its coloured houses along the shore front, even more so these days as millions of kids will know it not as Tobermory but as Balamory.
The dusky pink building on the harbour front belongs to the Tobermory Youth Hostel. If, like me, you used youth hostels in your teens and haven't since then you might have an image in your head. Times have changed; and you'll be pleasantly surprised.
The youth hostelling ethos is still the same; it's a self catering community type stay where you share the same wash facilities, kitchen, eating space and lounging area with other guests. But for families there's now the option of reserving your own room as opposed to the usual girls on one floor boys on the other.
Tobermory's youth hostel was well presented. The kitchen was well provisioned with the usual pigeon holes for items and a huge array of pots, pans, toasters, fridges, hobs etc. The lounge was comfortable with a TV and DVD although likely to be a bit of a squeeze if the hostel was at full capacity. Access to the bedrooms was out the back and up the stairs. For families there are rooms that can sleep four, five or six and are hired out as ‘private' rooms if you want them exclusively. Bedding is supplied as standard throughout; towels are included in a private room hire. All the beds are single or in a bunk configuration and they can supply travel cots if needed. Toilet and shower facilities were functional and clean.
Mull itself has a wealth of places to visit and things to do although I would recommend taking a car to make exploring easier. The ferry from Mull to Craignure is the principle route but not the only option as there's a smaller car ferry that runs from Lochaline to Fishnish which is less expensive. Roads on Mull are in the main single track with passing places; this is not an island to be in a hurry and all the better for it.
It has to be said that youth hostelling, like many other types of holiday, is not to everyone's taste. If you've been camping and used a toilet block or been hostelling before then you know what to expect, and if you are on a tight budget then it's a very good option. Karolina the manager was friendly, very knowledgeable about Mull and a great resource for information on things to do, what to see and where to eat. Book as far in advance as you can to ensure you get a room that suits.
A no frills, clean and well presented destination for budget minded families.
Tobermory Youth Hostel is open from the 8th April until the 23rd October and can also be rented for exclusive use outwith these times.
Bookings can be made online.