The turnoff to Garanes Hostel is on the main road between Castletownbere and Allihies. A modest but clear sign directs the way down a side road. After some distance and a few twists and turns, the visitor comes across the small community that is Dzogchen Beara Tibetan Buddhist Retreat Center and Garranes Hostel. This cliffside retreat, nestled in among evergreens and other flora, has some spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and the open ocean.
The hostel itself is a pleasant stone building with 8-10 bed dorm for women and one for men. The dorms are decked out with various kinds of shelving and have brightly-colored cloths hanging from some of the bunks, providing both character and an element of privacy. There are several shared bathrooms, two with showers. The bathrooms are warm and clean with plenty of hot water.
The common room is downstairs. One end contains the kitchen and a dining table and the other the lounge. The kitchen is serviceable and well-stocked. The lounge, with several couches around a coffee table, is cozy and invites conversation. One wall is lined with well-stocked bookcases. The whole room is bright and airy.
There is a cafe on the grounds open throughout most of the season. There is also a small shop that sells books and gift items and a few munchies. Otherwise, guests will want to bring their own food, as the nearest grocery shop is a long walk away.
As a retreat or a traveller's hostel, Garrranes draws you in. Its laid back, convivial atmosphere and gorgeous setting make it an ideal hostel as either a stop along the way or a destination point.
Review by Kristen Eaton— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
April 2007
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