Urhan Hostel

Urhan Hostel is located on the R575, the main road between Allihies and Eyeries on the Beara Penninsula in Ireland's County Cork. Urham is a peaceful and scenic little town, an easy jaunt off the hiking trail for Beara Way hikers. You can't miss it, as its in the same building as the town's food shop and post office, both services a convenience to hostel guests.

The structure was built in 1884, and is an old school house. Despite its age, it is in admirable repair, and has a bright, open feel. Seeing as it's a large building, it might be a bit drafty in the colder months. But any chill is more than made up for by the proprietor's (Kathleen's) warmth. This friendly and unprepossessing woman is a natural for running the local grocery/post office, one of the town's two social centers. (The other, of course, being the pub just down the road.)

The dorm rooms are up each of two staircases, and average about six beds per room. Bedrooms are roomy and have large windows, many with stunning views. Floors, as throughout most of the hostel, are a dark wood. The bathrooms and showers are scattered throughout the hostel, and are clean and relatively roomy.

There is a small but cozy lounge with a fireplace. The kitchen/dining area, on the other hand, is absolutely huge, with high ceilings and a generous amount of windows. There are two full stovetops and one oven, plenty of fridge space, and pots, pans, dishes, and utensils suitable to feed a multitude. There are also plenty of heavy wood tables and chairs in this beautiful room.

Overall, this is a charming yet spacious hostel in a beautiful old building. In this rural setting, the adjacent shop is invaluable. Despite its relatively large size, the hostel is as convivial as its owner.

Review by Kristen Eaton

-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review