Sidsmums Travellers Retreat

This is the wonderful hostel that brings relaxation, calm, and a chance to unwind to the busy backpacker, and is the perfect relief on a hectic travel schedule if you have the time, at least two nights.

Sidsmums Travellers' Retreat is located outside of Carcassonne, just outside of the circulade village of Preixan. It is owned by Jan and her son, Sid, two Brits in France. Let Jan or Sid know when you'll be arriving, or else call when you arrive, and you can arrange to meet them at the meeting place for one of the two free rides per day in and out of Carcassonne that they provide.

Arrival at the hostel is at a medium sized house with the chalets out back. Everything is clean and comfortable. There are two toilets, one shower, and three sinks for this very small hostel with two dorms (each four beds), one twin bedded room, and three chalets for bookings of two to three people. Chalets are heated with a gas heater (which means they can be a little chilly in spring), and lighting is by the provided flashlights and push-lights, but they do allow for a bit more privacy if that's what you desire. All bedding is provided, and is clean and comfortable. There is also a kitchen where you can store your food, and all the appliances and utensils that you need to create a delicious repast. This is just like home: you do your own cooking, and you clean up after yourself.

Just relax with other guests in the common room, or out on the back porch if you spend the day or evening around the hostel, as there is no lockout. Jan and Sid are extremely knowledgeable about the area, providing guides and maps for walking and biking trails for every level, and they rent excellent mountain bikes for only €8 per day. Feel free to explore this beautiful countryside on your own, wandering amongst vineyards and through the foothills of the Pyrenees. Their friendly dog, Georges, is known everywhere, and may accompany you on your walk. Preixan is VERY small, but there is a small bakery just down the street in Preixan, and a grocery store with everything you need in another small town about 3 km away (around a 45 minute walk) if you don't buy supplies in Carcassonne (which is probably advisable).

This hostel allows travellers to be very self-sufficient, but be aware that unlike some other hostels, here you are expected to provide your own meals. Although a fair distance away from Carcassonne itself, the two free rides provided as well as a fairly good local bus service alleviate the difficulty. However, if you do only have the one night in Carcassonne, this may not be the best choice and staying in the city might be a better option. Jan can also accommodate other needs and make other arrangements if necessary. Almost all bookings are made via email or direct communication with Jan or Sid, and only cash payment in euros is accepted.

The atmosphere is extremely friendly and relaxed, and very conducive to making new friends on your trip. The price is reasonable for a super-clean, super-friendly hostel, and there is always the opportunity of volunteering around the hostel if you're planning on staying at least a week. This hostel provides an excellent experience and recovery from travelling hard for anyone.

-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review