Away with the Fairies

Away with the Fairies is an enchanting hostel in an idyllic spot, with breathtaking views over the 'Hogsback' hills. It is the only hostel in town but does not take advantage of this fact. Owned and run by an Englishman who visited here ten years ago and has never left, the management are very friendly and helpful.

Hogsback is a small quaint town in the middle of the forests and hills. The area has a Lord of the Rings theme, with a pub called 'Rivendell' and the next town called 'Hobbiton'. In July, they celebrate a winter Christmas, as well as in December, seeing many more guests and the locals wearing Santa hats and selling ox-drawn cart rides down the main road. There are no buses or trains to Hogsback so to get to there, a self-drive car is needed. The hostel will do pick-ups and drop-offs from hostels at Cintsa, Grahamstown and East London five times a week for a fee. There is an old village general store for some food and a few cafes and pubs, but little else in Hogsback. It is like going back in time. The hostel itself is a five minute walk to the main road, but also has direct access from its garden to walking trails which many visitors enjoy, seeing local waterfalls and trails.

There are two dorms. The one at the front has two bunks and a single bed. There is also a private double room, and ground for camping. The owner is planning on extending the buildings further for more accommodation. There is a shower room with a clean shower, WC and sink, and also a bathroom, both of which are good sized and clean.

In the building with the bedrooms is a large living room with sofas and an open fire, stereo and book exchange. There is also a kitchen with a lovely rustic wooden counter-top, fitted electric stove and all amenities required. In a separete building is a bar with a computer for internet access, and off here is a large dining table where dinner is served nightly, a few sofas around a fire and table football. Throughout both buildings, the walls are painted in fairy themes. There is plenty of outside space. At the back is a nice garden with a small table and two chairs by a small fishpond; in the middle is an outside fire and picnic tables; and on the far side is a treehouse, said to give great views of the area but the steps are in need of better securing.

This hostel is both relaxing and sociable. Many people, both foreign travellers and locals from the nearby cities, view this as a great country escape. Often busy at weekends, there is generally more space mid-week. An enchanting place to stay and well worth the change of scenery from the beaches for a few days.

-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review