The Riverhouse Backpackers

The brother and sister team of Abi and Charlie will welcome you to The Riverhouse Backpackers. This wonderful hostel is right in the centre of Cardiff, and has many facilities to make your stay comfortable.

The Location

The location is perfect for exploring Cardiff -- on a quiet street, right across the river from Millennium Stadium, and only a five-minute walk from Cardiff Castle. There is easy access to the bus and train station (ten-minute walk) and also to the Megabus stop (fifteen minutes). The baycar is available near Cardiff Castle if you want to explore Cardiff Bay. All of the main nightlife is only a short walk away.

Rooms and Bathrooms

The four- and six-bed dorms are new and in excellent condition. Twin privates are also available. Lockers are provided in each room, and reading lights and locks are available for a small deposit. There are a lot of stairs to climb, including to get to the bathrooms. The bathrooms are very clean, with some having a sink, toilet, and shower. There are separate showers on the lower floors as well. The shower is very good, and some have a ledge for keeping items, and all include hooks and a small area to change.

Common Spaces

The hostel has a new, clean, and fully-equipped kitchen (including laundry machines). There is an adjacent eating area with chairs and tables and a small TV. Breakfast is served in the morning, and consists of breads, cereals, juices, tea, and coffee. There is also a TV room with a larger TV, which has an internet computer offering access (for a fee) and also books. Free Wi-Fi is available. There is also an outdoor garden in the back where people can drink and smoke. The hostel has mostly younger guests but also a few older ones. Many of the guests are a bit quieter, so at times it can feel a bit dead for atmosphere.

Summary

The hostel lives up to its reputation as being the best place to stay in Cardiff. It's nice, comfy, and clean -- and the owners care quite a bit about keeping the hostel at a high standard. The hostel is also kept quite secure, with CCTV cameras in the main common areas and at the door. It's the perfect hostel for all types of travelers.

— Avis exclusif de Hostelz.com
September 2009