Last weekend, a group of us decided to do something different. We booked an entire hostel in Wales for a short trip. It was much cheaper than any of us expected, and it turned out to be one of the most fun experiences we’ve had in a long time.
We had been talking about going on a holiday for months. Someone in the group suggested we try renting a hostel instead of staying at hotels or Airbnb. At first, it sounded like a crazy idea, but the more we thought about it, the better it seemed. Hostels usually have more beds and shared spaces, so we thought it would be ideal for a big group like ours. Plus, it was much more affordable than booking individual rooms at a hotel.
After some searching online, we came across a hostel in Wales that could be rented out entirely. It was located in the small town of Betws-y-Coed, right in the middle of Snowdonia National Park. The hostel was called “Mountain View Hostel.” It had 20 beds in total, spread out across several dormitory-style rooms. It also had a large communal kitchen, a dining area, and a cozy living room with a fireplace.
The best part? The price. The cost to rent the entire place for two nights was just £400. That worked out to only £40 per person for the whole weekend since there were ten of us going. It was an unbelievable deal considering how much space and privacy we would have.
Arriving at the Hostel
We arrived in Betws-y-Coed on Friday afternoon after driving from various parts of the UK. The town itself was charming, with little shops, cafes, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hostel was a short walk from the town center, tucked away on a quiet street.
When we got to the hostel, we were greeted by the owner, a friendly man named Gareth. He showed us around the place and gave us the keys. The hostel was simple but very clean and well-kept. There were bunk beds in the dorm rooms, and the bathrooms were shared, but everything was neat and tidy. The kitchen had all the essentials – a fridge, stove, microwave, and plenty of plates and utensils.
Exploring the Area
Once we were settled in, we decided to explore the area. Snowdonia National Park is known for its breathtaking scenery, and it did not disappoint. On Saturday morning, we hiked up Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales. It was a challenging climb, but the views from the top were worth every step. You could see for miles – rolling hills, deep valleys, and lakes sparkling in the sunlight.
After the hike, we went back to the hostel to rest. It was great to have the entire place to ourselves. We didn’t have to worry about disturbing other guests or keeping the noise down. We spent the evening cooking dinner together in the communal kitchen and then sat around the fireplace, playing games and chatting until late into the night.
A Group-Friendly Experience
One of the best things about renting a hostel is how group-friendly it is. We didn’t feel cramped, and there was plenty of space for everyone to spread out. The large dining area meant we could all eat together at the same table, which made the whole experience feel more social and fun.
Since it was just us in the hostel, we could come and go as we pleased. There was no need to lock up valuables or worry about leaving things out. It felt very relaxed, like having a home away from home.
Affordable and Flexible
Another big advantage of renting a hostel is the affordability. Hotels in the area were much more expensive, and we would have had to book multiple rooms. The hostel gave us more flexibility too. If more people had wanted to join, there would have been enough room for them without needing to change our plans.
Hostels are often thought of as basic or even uncomfortable, but this experience changed our minds. Sure, it wasn’t as fancy as a hotel, but it had everything we needed, and the atmosphere was much more casual and laid-back.
Final Thoughts
By Sunday afternoon, it was time to leave. We were sad to go because we had such a good time. Renting the hostel had been a unique experience, and it was one we would definitely do again. It was perfect for a group trip – affordable, fun, and full of adventure.
If you’re thinking about going on a trip with friends or family, and you want to save money, consider renting a hostel. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t feel cheap. In fact, it might just be the most cheerful holiday you ever have!
Our weekend in Wales was unforgettable, and the decision to rent a hostel made it all the more special. The low cost and the group-friendly environment allowed us to enjoy our time together without breaking the bank. It also opened our eyes to the idea of hostels as more than just places for backpackers – they can be a great option for anyone looking for a cozy and affordable place to stay.
Practical Tips for Renting a Hostel
- Check for Availability: Not all hostels offer the option to rent the entire building, so it’s a good idea to call ahead or check online for availability.
- Group Size: Make sure you have enough people to fill the hostel. Some hostels have a minimum occupancy requirement for full bookings.
- Location: Choose a hostel in an area with plenty of things to do. Our location in Snowdonia National Park made the trip even more enjoyable because of the hiking and natural beauty.
- Plan Meals: Since hostels usually have kitchens, you can save money by cooking your own meals. Plan a few group dinners or breakfasts to take advantage of the communal space.
- Be Flexible: Hostels are more relaxed than hotels, but they might not have all the luxuries you’re used to. Go in with an open mind and enjoy the experience for what it is.
Renting a hostel for a group trip is a fantastic way to create memories without spending a fortune. Our experience in Wales was proof that cheap doesn’t have to mean boring or uncomfortable. Sometimes, the simplest trips turn out to be the most enjoyable.
