The Hostelz.com Review
Paddy's Doolin Hostel is the closest hostel to the Cliffs of Moher, as they claim. It is a small, cozy hostel with a great staff. David, working the reception, welcomes you and goes to extra lengths to get things for you settled. He also makes some really good scones!
The Location
Located not more than a half a mile from The Cliffs of Moher, the location has a bus drop-off direct across from the hostel. There are several buses that run every day and the bus drivers in this part of Ireland are very helpful. The town is very small. You can blink and be on the other side, but there are nice cafes and pubs just a few minutes walk (but there are only three or four). This is a great base if you are hiking or biking The Burren or arriving from the Aran Islands. Fields surround the hostel and even some of the rooms have cows and green grass as the view.
Rooms and Bathrooms
There are several options for the rooms -- en-suite, two- and four-bed private rooms; family en-suite rooms with a bunk and double bed; six-bed dorms with three sets of bunk beds. The bunks are made of wood and are sturdier than some metal bunks. Every room has a deadlock and each person in that room has a key. There are no in room lockers but some space under the bunk allows for storage.
The bathrooms are small but clean. For the showers, there is no water-saving timer that shuts the water off ofter fifteen seconds. There is a small shelf in the shower to place personal items. It is a tight space for changing but manageable; however, bring a hanger to keep clothing off the floor!
Common Spaces
There is a large, spacious, self-catering kitchen with cooking necessities. An adjacent eating area can get loud during dinner if a crowd is in since there are no doors between the kitchen and eating area. There is a laundry service for a fee and towels can be rented as well. Breakfast, if it can be called that, is tea and coffee. The closest place to buy food at the supermarket is about twelve kilometers, which can be a problem for those without a car. Parking is not a problem. There is free Wi-Fi.
The common area is filled with lots of chairs and is suitable for a comfortable evening with friends or meeting other travelers. All the people who end up here are most likely to be outdoor adventurers. They come from all over the world and the gatherings are usually very agreeable. This is not a party hostel. Hostelers tend to be more activity-oriented than party goer but they are sociable.
Summary
Overall, the impression is that of friendliness. Currently, the tourism business is on a low so hostels such as Paddy's are very accommodating and will make deals for groups to stay longer. They can also arrange discounted tours of The Cliffs by boat and they often host free dancing lessons for the hostelers. We were not there when these dancing lessons were being held but can image that it would be fun. Paddy's is recommended if you wish to spend time in the Irish countryside hiking, biking, or walking. The scenery and tranquility makes this place suitable for those wanting to get away from noise and crowds.
The Location
Located not more than a half a mile from The Cliffs of Moher, the location has a bus drop-off direct across from the hostel. There are several buses that run every day and the bus drivers in this part of Ireland are very helpful. The town is very small. You can blink and be on the other side, but there are nice cafes and pubs just a few minutes walk (but there are only three or four). This is a great base if you are hiking or biking The Burren or arriving from the Aran Islands. Fields surround the hostel and even some of the rooms have cows and green grass as the view.
Rooms and Bathrooms
There are several options for the rooms -- en-suite, two- and four-bed private rooms; family en-suite rooms with a bunk and double bed; six-bed dorms with three sets of bunk beds. The bunks are made of wood and are sturdier than some metal bunks. Every room has a deadlock and each person in that room has a key. There are no in room lockers but some space under the bunk allows for storage.
The bathrooms are small but clean. For the showers, there is no water-saving timer that shuts the water off ofter fifteen seconds. There is a small shelf in the shower to place personal items. It is a tight space for changing but manageable; however, bring a hanger to keep clothing off the floor!
Common Spaces
There is a large, spacious, self-catering kitchen with cooking necessities. An adjacent eating area can get loud during dinner if a crowd is in since there are no doors between the kitchen and eating area. There is a laundry service for a fee and towels can be rented as well. Breakfast, if it can be called that, is tea and coffee. The closest place to buy food at the supermarket is about twelve kilometers, which can be a problem for those without a car. Parking is not a problem. There is free Wi-Fi.
The common area is filled with lots of chairs and is suitable for a comfortable evening with friends or meeting other travelers. All the people who end up here are most likely to be outdoor adventurers. They come from all over the world and the gatherings are usually very agreeable. This is not a party hostel. Hostelers tend to be more activity-oriented than party goer but they are sociable.
Summary
Overall, the impression is that of friendliness. Currently, the tourism business is on a low so hostels such as Paddy's are very accommodating and will make deals for groups to stay longer. They can also arrange discounted tours of The Cliffs by boat and they often host free dancing lessons for the hostelers. We were not there when these dancing lessons were being held but can image that it would be fun. Paddy's is recommended if you wish to spend time in the Irish countryside hiking, biking, or walking. The scenery and tranquility makes this place suitable for those wanting to get away from noise and crowds.
— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
July 2011
Their Description
Paddy's Doolin Hostel Details
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Hostelz.com Guest Reviews
Staff and overall experience first rate i had a fabulous time at Paddy's!!! The staff knew so much about the area and made it a pleasure to explore Doolin and the Burren, complete with bus schedule info and even off the beaten path directions. the hostel itself was very nice and clean and provided excellent breakfast along with any other needs i had (including money exchange) great location also. i cant wait to visit there again next summer!!!! the staff was the best!!!! — Anonymous , Delray Beach, Florida (2010-07-22) Friendly staff, lots of space in the room, ample bathrooms, and great kitchen. But the owner refused to turn the heating on while we were there, even when it started snowing, which would definitely stop me from going back, at least in the cooler months. Close to the best pub in Doolin but a bit of a walk from the others. — Emma , Australian (2007-04-05) I stayed in this hostel about 4/5 years ago, so perhaps things have changed, but I was surprised to see such high ratings. When I stayed here the place was clean enough but rather devoid of atmosphere. Hopefully it has improved since then. — PY (2005-05-28) Very cozy. This place has the best staff I met in Ireland. The beds are comfortable, very quiet, and Doolin is a very nice village. You must stop here to enjoy the people, the ocean and the Fisher Street. I met the best people here. — Sarah B. (2004-12-15) Paddy's is the ideal place to stay if you are looking for a place where it feels like being at home. The beds are comfortable and the bathrooms are clean and private. Moreover, if you want to have some fun and meet new, young people, you will find this at Paddy's as well. The staff are great! — Vivianne (2004-07-27) The only drawback to this place is the size of the dorm beds. The lower beds especially are not easy to get in. But otherwise, it's a great hostel. — Tamara (2004-07-13) Beautiful hosetl in a very cute village. Occasional traffic / people noise from outside but NOTHING compared to Dublin or another city. I stayed in a six-bed dorm with clean, crisp sheets and large duvets. Hall are pretty quiet, rooms are bright and cheerful. Kitchen and eating areas are spacious and sunny. Reception staff is friendly and courteous. The best part! The bus station is literally right across the road, so no hoofing your heavy bags long ways. Hostel is non-smoking, non-drinking, but with no curfew. Highly recommended if you get tired of city life. — Katie (2003-06-13)