The Hostelz.com Review - Genuine, independent review you can trust.
Normally, Hostel Gernika - Lumo Aterpetxea would count as a great hostel, but as it's a bit on the expensive side, we expected more. Either way, Gernika doesn't offer many accommodation options for backpackers, so this will have to do, and after all it's not bad at all.
The Location
The location is pretty good; the hostel isn't set right in the center, but it's definitely close, just a short walk away. There are a few bars and restaurants nearby and a little further you can find more options, as well as supermarkets, bakeries, many shops, and other tourist attractions. The bus station isn't too far away either.
Rooms and Bathrooms
The rooms are not too big, so it's quite cozy. The beds are rather close together, so there isn't that much space to walk around, and it gets quite crowded when the rooms fill up (and as this is currently the only hostel in town, they do, more often than not). Bedsheets are provided, but towels are not. Some beds have nice blankets, while others have lame ones (we find that strange!), and as the staff are almost never around, it's hard to ask for extra blankets! Also, they have a strange habit of forcing you to leave all your belongings in huge lockers down at the lobby and only bring whatever is absolutely necessary in a plastic bag to the room. We do understand, of course, they might be worried about cleanliness, but that is a bit excessive and highly inconvenient.
The bathrooms look quite funny and colorful and clean, and that's great. However, it's a large hostel with many people, and toilet paper tends to run out in the evenings, but again, sadly there are never any staff members around to ask for help during these hours.
Common Spaces
It's a large hostel, and they have a bunch of areas where you can hang out, and we appreciate that. There is some seating area by reception, then a quite big dining table on the first floor, and even an outdoor terrace -- fancy! There is a communal kitchen, which is one of the best we've seen in a hostel. There are plenty of dishes and everything is kept tidy and organized there. A free breakfast is included and it's pretty nice; you can have toasts, cereal, and coffee. There is free Wi-Fi too and a laundry room.
Summary
It's a pretty good hostel, but unfortunately it's not great value for money. We strongly feel that for the price, it could be much better.
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