While finding Dun Chaoin Hostel (An Oige) proves to be a slight challenge due to poor road signage and construction, the hostel proves to be a place of comfort. It's situated just away from the bustling town of Dingle, just outside the quiet town of Tralee.
If you are traveling without a car of your own, this hostel may be difficult to get to. If you do have a vehicle, there is a parking lot suitable for about eight cars where you can park at no extra cost. From the hostel it takes just minutes to walk down to the ocean, down various trails including the Dingle Way, or to the Visitor's Centre which provides a history of the area and local islands. If you do go walking, be prepared for stunning vistas.
The rooms are comfortable, with sturdy bunk beds and enough blankets to keep warm. Beware -- this hostel charges extra for sheets so consider bringing your own to save some cash. No sleeping bags are permitted in the majority of hostels. The rooms also have an en-suite toilet and shower, plenty of windows (with great views), and a heater that can be turned on if it gets chilly. While there are hooks to hang jackets or towels on, there are no lockers for locking up belongings. As well, the rooms do not lock, so consider bringing a lock for your luggage to secure your things.
Downstairs is where you find the reception area which is manned from 8 to 10 a.m. and from 5 to 10 p.m. daily. From 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. the hostel is closed to guests -- you have access only to a small sitting area at the front of the hostel and to the luggage storage area. Make sure you have all you need for the day before you head out! The staff are friendly and helpful. The reception desk doubles as a mini convenience store, and while items are overpriced, if you're in a pinch and need some food or tea, it's conveniently close.
The kitchen is immaculate (as is the rest of the hostel) and well equipped. Tragically, tea is not provided free of charge, which is common practice in many other hostels in Ireland. The kitchen also has the most extensive recycling set up we've witnessed, with bins carefully labeled and laid out. The dining area has many tables and chairs and again, a great view down the hill towards the ocean. Breakfast and/or packed lunches are available for extra cost if requested the night before at the reception area.
Every evening a fire is lit in the sitting room, which is home to a few comfortable couches and chairs. This is the ideal place to play a game of cards or read. There are books and games available to use there. Overall, this hostel is fabulous!
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
September 2007
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