HI - Troyes-Rosières Hostel isn't actually in Troyes -- Rosieres is an outlying suburb or precinct of Troyes and a five-kilometer bus trip or drive from town. However, it's a reasonable if somewhat unconventional budget hostel with friendly staff and a family atmosphere.
The Location
Rosieres (or Rosieres pres Troyes) is located off the D610, five kilometers from the Troyes city centre and there's a bus stop a hundred meters from the hostel. Set in a large green area, the hostel has plenty of parking and feels quite rural with a watercourse running past it and the somewhat crumbly more historic part of the hostel (the main building is newer and reception area has recently undergone a renovation). Provided you have your own transport or don't mind taking the bus to the city centre, the location is fine -- however it seems there's little in Rosieres itself except the nearby post office.
If driving, follow signs to Rosieres and the Parc Technopole (not Troyes city centre) and at the post office take a left and then right into Chemin Ste Scholastique. Unlike many of the other French HI hostels, this one isn't particularly well signed and lies at the end of the road, which becomes a gravel track.
Rooms and Bathrooms
The dorms are old with squeaky metal bunks, lino floors, and tired pillows. However they are clean enough and bathrooms are adequate. Two dorms share a shower and have their own washbasins in a front room. Toilets are down the corridor and reasonably clean, but bring your own soap and towel. Dorms are lockable with a key but there are no storage lockers. There was an assortment of mainly family groups during our stay -- lots of kids and locals running around and playing football on the lawn gave the place a lively feel.
Common Areas
In addition to a pool table and some vending machines in the reception area, there is a large dining room (breakfast and meals available at extra cost) plus some outside sitting areas. We were offered either of the two staff kitchens to cook in, which seemed a little strange but they are well equipped. There is a bar in the dining room with a few old locals hanging around who add to the family atmosphere! There is plenty of car parking at the hostel and on the surrounding lawns; camping also.
Summary
This hostel is a bit further from Troyes than expected but a good budget base for exploring Troyes. The HI Troyes Rosieres Hostel is a reasonable place to stay with more of a family feel rather than hostel atmosphere.
Review by S. Topf— Exklusive Hostelz.com Übersicht
April 2008
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