Rucksacks Braemar

Rucksacks Braemar bears close resemblance to the town of Braemar -- small, quiet, a little quaint, a little rugged. It's a pleasant place to stay with a distinct wilderness camptrip feel.

The long-time owner stays in the main house unit, which houses the kitchen and dining room/entertainment area. She is an enthusiastic and engaging connection to all that goes on in the area, and small personal touches are the benefit of staying in a small hostel.

The kitchen has the usual amenities like fridge, stove, microwave, and cutlery, but the entertainment is limited to literature and magazines, so you will have to entertain yourself or get out into Braemar if reading a book is not your favourite pastime. Internet access is available should you need it.

The bunkhouse is more like a prefab outhouse, with interior wooden panelling that enhances the wilderness feel and adds visual warmth. Some bunks are a little high off the ground. The cheaper rooms are for those bringing their own sleeping bags, but the dorms with bedding are reasonably priced anyway. Shelving and heating are available, and the separate shower and toilets are clean and well maintained.

Rucksacks is very centrally located just near the main part of town, just behind Braemar Mews. The attraction of the town is primarily its remote beauty and the quaint culture of the Highland Games and other cultural activities. Bring along some clubs if you fancy a round on the U.K.'s highest golf course. Winter also brings the fun of skiing just down the road.

Rucksacks Braemar is not exactly the social networking centre of the highlands, but then if you've come to visit Braemar you're more likely to be looking for a chance to escape the madness and relax quietly with a little peace of mind, and Rucksacks serves just that purpose.

— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
July 2006