SYHA - ratings, reviews and travel tips!

Carbisdale Castle

4 stars

times - Scotland

January 2011

Stay in a real castle!

4.5 stars

father of a German family - Germany

December 2010

If you stay in Scotland for a round trip, you should go to Carbisdale Castle. When we came in the great hall with the statue gallery, it was the same athmosphere like 25 years ago, when I stayed here on an interrail-trip. In other castles you have to pay for visiting, here you can stay! Nevertheless, the famous buliding is a problem in peak seasons. The members kitchen might be crowded, the rooms loud and it´s a difficult job to clean the big house. Coming from Dornoch beach (I didn´t expect such a nice sandy beach so far in the north) in the later evening we had problems to find the hostel in the darkness of the forest, because there was no floodlight illuminating the castle. The staff told us, that they could switch on the light, if you tell them by phone, when you are reaching the castle later. If your next stop (by car) is in the North or West, stop at the falls of shin, nice waterfalls near to a small street.

4 stars

Doug Mackay - England

November 2010

4.5 stars

bsafer - United States of America

November 2010

Definitely an unusual place to stay off the beaten path. The staff were very good and entertaining - the grounds were great. Not really close to anything - but thats the appeal. Even though it was the "off season", there were quite a few very friendly guests from at least 3 continents!!

5 stars

Gleek - Scotland

November 2010

4 stars

Lillywhite - Scotland

November 2010

This is a fantastic youth hostel in a beautiful location. The castle is grand and spacious and there are many areas to sit and relax.

2.5 stars

Annabelle - Scotland

November 2010

5 stars

Lizzy - Jersey

October 2010

5 stars

George Stone - England

October 2010

4.5 stars

Snowy - Australia

October 2010

Wow what a hostel! It is MASSIVE and you could get lost in the corridors. We went on a ghost hunt one night and the haunted room made the hairs on the back on my neck stand on end. Beds were really comfy, kitchen very large and well equipped, clean bathrooms. The views and surrounding areas were stunning and you are close to many hiking paths. Perfect for relaxation or a base for outdoor activities.

4.5 stars

M Mellor - Scotland

October 2010

4 stars

blacktoe - United States of America

October 2010

3 stars

Christine - Switzerland

October 2010

5 stars

dornyd - England

October 2010

A remote but very beautiful spot for an amazing building. The dorms are clean and basic, standard hostel fare, but the rest of the building is definately an experience!

5 stars

louise - France

October 2010

asolutely faulous !

5 stars

Adelphi - Australia

October 2010

Carbisdale Castle was quite amazing, being surrounded by stunning marble statues, grand sitting rooms and artworks and short walks nearby.

4.5 stars

Peter - Australia

October 2010

Evening meals available at the hostel are good quality, however meals served strictly within a specified timeband to so ensure arrival corresponds with this.

3 stars

tricia - New Zealand

October 2010

5 stars

Mike Thornton - England

October 2010

4.5 stars

Frankfurter - Germany

October 2010

3.5 stars

SETH - England

October 2010

as above - good walk over to Rogart via the two masts to have the experience of staying in the independent hostel in converted rail carriges

5 stars

guy - England

September 2010

5 stars

P - Scotland

September 2010

5 stars

Dariusz - Poland

September 2010

4.5 stars

Amaranth - Canada

September 2010

Carbisdale Castle is a gem, and we delighted in taking as many photographs as the building as the area around it. Some important points for an enjoyable stay: 1) Bring hiking boots as there are excellent trails in the vicinity, though we didn't get to explore them much due to a spot of rain and getting in late. 2) Make sure you have the correct address plugged into your sat-nav, as our Garmin took us through the winding back routes to the castle, and single-track roads can be picturesque but definitely slow us down. 3) Great laundry facilities are on hand, just sneak down after 6PM and you have them all to yourself. Carbisdale begs to be explored, especially after dark, and some of those windows are quite lovely. It has an evocative appeal that you would never expect in a youth hostel.

5 stars

P - Scotland

September 2010

4.5 stars

Aline from France - France

September 2010

4 stars

Mathilda - Scotland

September 2010

4.5 stars

Mario A.F. - Spain

September 2010

Buen alojamiento. El lugar es muy bonito y el castillo es formidable. Tiene tendencia a tener mucha gente alojada, lo que lo hace un poco ruidoso. Por lo demás todo muy bien. Los empleados muy amables y eficaces.

5 stars

carbisdale - England

September 2010

no improvements needed.

4.5 stars

tymtrvlr - United States of America

September 2010

A beautiful place. We wish it was a bit closer to a grocery store. Staff was friendly and helpful. Unfortunately for us...a victim of its own popularity. We were tired after a long drive, only to find the ballroom floor taken up by a noisy party and every bed taken (so we couldn't switch to a quieter room). Otherwise, no complaints...a nice way to spend a night in a castle at a reasonable price. Will go back again, but at a slower time of year. (Smile) Thanks!

3.5 stars

beamon - Canada

September 2010

4.5 stars

JPJ - Sweden

September 2010

Fantastic atmosphere, good mushroom picking nearby.

4 stars

biker chick - England

September 2010

I think that wooden beds may not be as squeaky as the metal ones currently used.

4.5 stars

Tina T - England

September 2010

4 stars

Walker - England

September 2010

Worth a short visit just for the experience of staying in a castle. However the hostel is poorly equipped for self-catering.

4 stars

Olga - Spain

September 2010

5 stars

bluenoser - Canada

September 2010

5 stars

BdJet - Republic of China (Taiwan)

September 2010

4 stars

nn - Germany

September 2010

4 stars

Mingi Pither - England

September 2010

Good experience!

4 stars

Talentin - Spain

September 2010

4.5 stars

RAÚL - Spain

September 2010

Is possible to put any indication to the hostel at the main road? We got lost and wasted more than one hour driving across the country. Tip for travellers: don't use the Postal Code of the hostel in your Navigation System, or you will get lost, like us. Except of that, the hostel is perfect. The castle is very nice and is in a wonderful location. 'Unfortunately', we haven't seen any of the castle's ghosts. I recommend to anyone that goes to Scotland to spend at least one night at this hostel.

5 stars

Helen Moore - Scotland

September 2010

An amazing opportunity to stay in a real Scottish Castle!

4.5 stars

Davo - England

September 2010

A fantastic place to stay - great location and good facilities. Definitely one to fit in.

4.5 stars

Letja The Netherlands - Ireland (Republic)

September 2010

Loved each moment in the Castle and should have stayed for more walking and enjoyment, at least another night, so I'll be back!

4 stars

Billy Mills - England

September 2010

4 stars

Ron - Scotland

September 2010

5 stars

Margaret - Scotland

September 2010

Third visit to Castle, always by car but first time I've driven myself. Enjoyed trip from Inverness and was able to stop and look at some of the beautiful view on the way. Couldn't remember from before if there was much eating places on way, but there are plenty, which we didn't need as we had a packed lunch with us.

4.5 stars

Ali G - Scotland

August 2010

great atmosphere a real escape

5 stars

Thomas - France

August 2010

4 stars

ch - Belgium

August 2010

It's a beautiful location. The food is good.

4.5 stars

running_fritz - Germany

August 2010

4.5 stars

Spanish - Spain

August 2010

5 stars

boston gal - United States of America

August 2010

Charming site, loved the history and decor. I wish I had the chance to learn more about the incredible sculptures and artwork. Full service kitchen was great for families, and the catered option provided substantial, healthy meals. We recommend a day trip to Golspie to see the town and castle.

3.5 stars

Christof - Germany - Germany

August 2010

4.5 stars

scotty - Germany

August 2010

3.5 stars

pinksheep - England

August 2010

5 stars

Mey - England

August 2010

Well worth a visit and asking to read the brochure on the history of the house, kept in reception, A good choice of well cooked food available at breakfast and dinner.

4 stars

... - Netherlands

August 2010

4 stars

Sarah - England

August 2010

Stunning castle in stunning location. It is a big hostel, so the small kitchen / dining facilities were dissapointing and virtually unusable when a big group came in. The beds were incredibly uncomfortable. An experience, but I won't be rushing back.

2.5 stars

Bel - Scotland

August 2010

Lovely building and the castle areas were impressive. Staff were friendly and helpful. However, bedrooms and toilets etc were very basic and dated, reminiscent of hostels 30 years ago. Our stay wasn't helped by someone banging on our door in the middle of the night who then went off down the corridor thumping on another door for ages until let in... This was followed by a 4am fire alarm involving everyone evacuating - we got the impression from staff that this was not a rare event. May be an okay place to stay as a teenage backpacker but not great for families.

5 stars

joy - Canada

August 2010

Very cool place to be... a must-see! But bring a book because there is not much to actually do for more than one day if you came without a vehicle!

4 stars

Brian - England

August 2010

Carbisdale is unique amongst the Scottish hostels, a must see and a place to take midge repellant - though this year they were hardly showing up.

3.5 stars

biology - England

August 2010

4 stars

K Carson-(Canada) - Canada

August 2010

One tip I would give about this Hostel would be to ensure you have your food and drink purchased before you arrive. It's a very isolated location, with limited resources near by.Bring your hiking boots and bug spray and enjoy the wonderful trails around the river and hills. Well worth the time to hike in this remote area of Scotland.

3.5 stars

Aphrolise - Austria

August 2010

The bathrooms need more regular maintenance - the castle itself could use some basic maintenance and repair (repainting walls and updating of toilet facilities) on the inside. The outside of the building and surroundings are excellent, but the inside needs work with very basic things to make it that much more enjoyable. The breakfast could be better organised as well.

2.5 stars

geoff c. - England

August 2010

This hostel has character but you have to be very well organised as distances and routes between bedrooms, reception and kitchen are long and circuitous.

3 stars

Eliza - Spain

August 2010

4.5 stars

hedgehog - England

August 2010

4 stars

Rachel - Scotland

August 2010

Remember to do your shopping before you go to the hostel as it's a long way back to the shop!

4.5 stars

Ellie - Germany

August 2010

5 stars

wheelsucker - England

August 2010

2.5 stars

Colin - Scotland

August 2010

Carbisdale has the potential to be an outstanding hostel, in a beautiful area. Unfortunatly it has a an extremly run down look about it. Millions would have to be spent on the building to bring it up to a reasonable standard. A nice B&B in the area for overnight accomodation would only cost a few £s more. This hostel I believe can be used for weddings. If any one is considering this option please visit the hostel before you make a decision.

4 stars

brasilgirl - Brazil

August 2010

4 stars

Bev - England

August 2010

4.5 stars

Stevie Lancer - Hungary

August 2010

3.5 stars

rose - Netherlands

August 2010

5 stars

anon - Ireland (Northern)

August 2010

4.5 stars

Soo Underwood - England

August 2010

If cycling, be aware of the route across the river, which consists of LOTS of steep steps! Allow time if loaded with panniers. We had to unload weight to negotiate steps etc.

4.5 stars

Hamish - Scotland

August 2010

4 stars

Stéphane CARTI - France

August 2010

4 stars

johnny_d - Belgium

August 2010

3.5 stars

mickael - France

August 2010

5 stars

Robin - England

August 2010

3.5 stars

doug - Scotland

August 2010

excellent hostel. shame they no longer do bike hire.

3.5 stars

Patrick (Antwerp, Belgium) - Belgium

August 2010

This hostel is clearly meant for people who are used to cheap hotels rather than hostels. Good service for people who pay for their dinners, I suppose. But the self-catering kitchen is really under-equipped: no sharp knives, only one or two frying-pans (in a hostel with over 200 beds!), and no free tea, coffee, sugar, salt or frying-oil is available (whereas they are in all other SYHA-hostels). But ok, you sleep in a castle, where you can (really!) get lost. The fire excapes are clearly indicated, but the regular way out? Hard to find in the beginning of your stay! My conclusion: staying overnight in a castle is overrated.

4 stars

aj - England

August 2010

Take ear plugs

3 stars

mack - Spain

August 2010

4.5 stars

Brian - Scotland

August 2010

First class facilities and helpful staff. Its not every day you get to live in a castle and even the ghost was friendly !

3 stars

Chris from Aberdeen - Scotland

July 2010

3.5 stars

annep - Scotland

July 2010

Be sure to take enough food for your stay. Try not to use kitchen at peak times as lots of families there cooking up big meals and taking up the limited seating area for enjoying your food

5 stars

mARTHA - Scotland

July 2010

WE REALLY ENJOYED YOUR HOSPITALITY AND WOULD RECOMMEND YOUR HOSTEL. THE STAFF IS FRIENDLY, APPROACHABLE AND HGHLY EFFICIENT. THE HOSTEL HAS BECOME KNOWN IN ENGLAND AND WE VISITED WITH FRIENDS FROM LONDON WHO TRAVELLED TO SCOTLAND SPECIFICALLY TO VISIT CARBISDALE CASTLE HOSTEL

4 stars

Daniel - Belgium

July 2010

5 stars

Imre - Scotland

July 2010

4 stars

Bert - Belgium

July 2010

very nice place to stay, certainly worth revisiting! Wandering around the castle at the dead of night... fantastic!

3.5 stars

bill - Scotland

July 2010

4 stars

Baker - England

July 2010

4 stars

Roger Newbery - England

July 2010

Fabulous building and views. Not the best drying room and no bike lock up (but did have outdoor bike racks) Small criticisms in the overall experience! Does do hot catered food which is very welcome after a long ride. Definitely recommend

3.5 stars

Medicate - Australia

July 2010

Good, but resting on it's laurels as a castle

5 stars

euroscope association - France

July 2010

A lovely place to stay with a group in total security. Staff and ghosts are very kind and the forest around is wonderfull. the restaurant offers a great quality of cooking. Twice we have been with groups of people aged between 10 and 17 and twice it was great !! we 'll come back !

5 stars

Tom - Scotland

July 2010

It may be an idea to let users know the site is quite isolated and they wish an alcoholic drink with there dinner they shouls bring it with them.

4.5 stars

Angelika - Germany

July 2010

3.5 stars

dancingthroughlife - England

July 2010

5 stars

Ken, Winchester - England

July 2010

This is an unbelievable and beautiful hostel. such atmosphere.

5 stars

KLG - Scotland

July 2010

2 stars

Disgruntled - Scotland

July 2010

I found the castle to be in scenic surroundings but if you do not drive beware of the climb, it is steeper than what is made out to be. The price of a 2-3 course meal was slightly overpriced.

3.5 stars

Mrs Finlay - Scotland

July 2010

excelent stop not to be passed by on your way north. Certainly worth the visit !

3 stars

agnes - Australia

July 2010

5 stars

Apurva Sampat - India

July 2010

The castle is fabulous, Staying there is one of a life time experience and you feel royal. Room No 210 is the spooky and the haunted roon in the castle, I stayed in that room and the experience was worth it, as there was a knock on my window at 1 am, Anyone ready to take challenges and is brave please do ask for room no 210. Its worth giving a try. The best way to reach the castle is to drive as it is too far from Inverness. There is a train conectivity as well but please check online before travelling. The overall experiince was excellent, if got a chance I would love to visit the castle again

3.5 stars

matt - England

July 2010

enjoyed the bike trails immensely especially Balblair.. enjoyed the pub (great beer)over the bridge/kyle...

4.5 stars

germi - Italy

July 2010

2.5 stars

James.C - Scotland

July 2010

4.5 stars

aussie - Australia

July 2010

Great place to feel special.

4.5 stars

susanna - Scotland

July 2010

4.5 stars

jenmac - Scotland

July 2010

I loved this place. Went with my family of 5, had one of the 6 bed private rooms. The kids loved the statues downstairs and played 'weeping angels' - Doctor Who fans beware! It was great to sit in the upstairs lounge looking out on the rising moon over the Dornoch Firth. We also loved being able to get up and go mountain biking on the trails

5 stars

happy - England

July 2010

Consider the footbridge from A36 that runs by the railway viaduct and can save you up to 5 miles trekking.

5 stars

Anke - Germany

June 2010

5 stars

Doris - Austria

June 2010

4.5 stars

stronsaylimpet - Scotland

June 2010

Make reservations in ample time - the castle is very busy, especially in summer. We chose a date when our party could be accommodated (for the benefit of a member who had never been to Carbisdale, and it was worth it to see her jaw drop), and arranged our trip around that.

3 stars

nat - Australia

June 2010

5 stars

JW - Ireland (Northern)

June 2010

4 stars

Kernow - England

June 2010

3 stars

knowonlyuntogod - England

June 2010

Its big place so quite hard to keep clean , while its clearly exspenive to maintain. The self service kicten takes some findign too.

3.5 stars

DEBB - United States of America

June 2010

A delightful stay. Perfect for families with older children. One of our highlights.

5 stars

Bruce N - England

June 2010

A fantastic fortnight in great surroundings. Staff couldn't be more friendly.

4.5 stars

Annie Bru - England

June 2010

Challenges organisational skills- it's a long way between rooms if you've forgotten anything!!! Really enjoyed the sence of space and found both lounges very relaxing, and the views stunning.

5 stars

bem0345 - England

June 2010

5 stars

kerry_hood - England

June 2010

We loved staying at this fabulous castle with the SYHA; the kids loved exploring the building, the views were lovely, the mountain biking exciting, and it was out of this world to lounge around a stately home.

3.5 stars

tim - Australia

June 2010

still worth the trip!

4 stars

101 - Australia

June 2010

4.5 stars

Birte, Denmark - Denmark

June 2010

Give you time to walk in the neighbourhood of the castle.

4 stars

MVossi - Germany

June 2010

4.5 stars

jrgbx - Scotland

June 2010

4 stars

Hans - Netherlands

June 2010

5 stars

BFAMBROX - Scotland

June 2010

CHOSE THIS HOSTEL ON TRIP WITH AMERICAN RELATIVE SO THEY COULD SAY THEY HAD STAYED IN A SCOTTISH CASTLE - NO-ONE IN THE GROUP WAS DISSAPOINTED . FAB ATMOSPHERE FAB TIME - HOPE TO RETURN!

3 stars

Speleovercors - England

June 2010

4.5 stars

rusconi family - France

June 2010

just a dream.

5 stars

Colin D - England

June 2010

4.5 stars

John.Saltire - Scotland

May 2010

We stayed on a pedal from Mull of Galloway to Dunnet Head and were amazed by the building, the location and the contents. We thought it was simply as stunning place and somewhere that everyone should stay at least once in their lives!

4.5 stars

guest - Scotland

May 2010

4.5 stars

Faivre - France

May 2010

4.5 stars

12 - England

May 2010

5 stars

Gordon - Scotland

May 2010

If you are cycling from the north take the footbridge adjacent to the rail bridge to get the hostel. This will save you about 8 miles off your journey.

4 stars

Monique - Netherlands

May 2010

3.5 stars

Scotcycle - Scotland

May 2010

There is a new footbridge attached to the railway bridge across the Kyle to Invershin. This is a great help to walkers and cyclists on tour. The Invershin Hotel has a friendly bar.

3.5 stars

JW - England

May 2010

Stunning SYHA and stunning location.

3.5 stars

Gordon Parker - England

May 2010

For cyclists, info about access by the railway bridge from Invershin could be more prominently displayed on the website.

4.5 stars

Ian - Scotland

May 2010

4 stars

Cherie - United States of America

May 2010

The most affordable way to spend the night in a castle while vacationing in Scotland.

4 stars

Ralf - Germany

May 2010

5 stars

Helen R - Scotland

May 2010

Excellent YH - castle setting very unusual. Kids loved mountain biking - would definitely recommend. 3 course dinner very good value

4.5 stars

Tamrabam - Scotland

April 2010

2.5 stars

cherko - Switzerland

April 2010

5 stars

Bronniw - New Zealand

April 2010

4 stars

- Scotland

April 2010

5 stars

British Tourer - England

April 2010

4 stars

Janda - Czech Republic

April 2010

4 stars

aloizas - Lithuania

April 2010

4.5 stars

Will Beback - England

April 2010

Magnificent building and setting, this place is everything that you've heard. However, if travelling as a couple and want a private room, make sure you get a double or a twin. You will be charged for the number of beds in a room rather than the number of people. We had a double on our first night, but had to move to a much less salubrious room with four bunk beds for which we were charged £15 more. If you want a friendly welcome don't arrive before 3pm, and despite the wooden flooring and large open spaces, don't be tempted to slide in your socks: my partner was left with a 3cm splinter in her foot.

2.5 stars

1 - Malaysia

April 2010

5 stars

matthew - England

April 2010

5 stars

nick - England

April 2010

4 stars

Ryan - Peoples Republic of China

April 2010

5 stars

harry&phyllis brown - Scotland

November 2009

the scenery is wonderful and the staff are great for a laugh.

5 stars

The cat tamer - Scotland

November 2009

A memorable experience! Magnificent building in beautiful setting. Welcoming staff and good food. Wonderful colours and views in Autumn.

5 stars

G - England

November 2009

4.5 stars

Heather - England

November 2009

I took my boys (7) and (10) here for a short break in October and they loved it. Especially the upper gallery where they had great fun with the tennis table and a huge remote landrover my elder son had bought on the way there. Lots of space for them to play with it and still not be in anybody else's way. We self catered but the three course home cooked evening meal is very good value at £9.50 per head. And we had a lovely room with huge windows from which you could see the water. And we were in a real castle!!!

4 stars

Jeysey - England

November 2009

We stayed at the castle for two nights and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Although there were no lockers in the rooms, this was not a problem due to the timing of our stay being at the end of the season. Due to its location, having a car is recommended, but the setting is beautiful and let's face facts- it might be a couple of miles to the nearest open pub and shops, but it's worth it for the opportunity to stay in an authentic Highland castle set amongst scenic forest walks.

4 stars

GvWP - Scotland

November 2009

4 stars

Gersa - Sweden

November 2009

2.5 stars

Ellie Spook - Scotland

October 2009

4.5 stars

af.robinson - England

October 2009

A stunning experience. Walks and rides from the front door and an amazing castle that needs more than one visit to take in.

3 stars

Sally G - Scotland

October 2009

We would recommend a trip to Dornoch beach while you are in the area.

5 stars

Anttinewby - Scotland

October 2009

4 stars

MONDRA - Spain

October 2009

5 stars

SeeSea - Scotland

October 2009

Nice experience staying in a castle with the artwork and sculptures. The following book gives a detailed history of the Dowager Duchess of Sutherland and her castle of Carbisdale ;- "A Prospect of Sutherland" by Gilbert T. Bell

4.5 stars

olivier breton - France

October 2009

5 stars

Nia - Spain

October 2009

FOr me this hostel is the best one of scotland.So i don't have any complain because everything was great

5 stars

Dave - England

October 2009

Go to falls of shin with a fully charged camera, your photos will be numerous, and some will be worth keeping.

4 stars

chris Palm - Belgium

October 2009

The sleeping room are to great. Rooms for 4 of 6 people would be better.

4 stars

Scotty - Netherlands

October 2009

2 stars

Marie - Germany

October 2009

3.5 stars

wal - Australia

October 2009

i would recommend it to anyone traveling in the area. as we stayed there 5 years ago and again this time. i was disipointed to see the discoloration of the statues in this short time and feel that some thing should be done to protect them from people touching them

3 stars

jorbarce - France

October 2009

4 stars

AmberB - Canada

September 2009

Please note that there are not a lot of electical outlets...so it's hard to charge your phone or camera battery!

5 stars

colin - Canada

September 2009

3.5 stars

VERONICA - Spain

September 2009

5 stars

stevemu - Scotland

September 2009

This hostel certainly lives up to it's reputation , it for sure has the "WOW" factor ......... meals are excelent value and you could spend all day exploring the castle and grounds , then the bike trails etc note however that at present (Sept 09) the local pub is closed so you have a fair trek if you want to go out to eat or drink

5 stars

Zibbs - United States of America

September 2009

I recommend renting a bike, if you don't have one of your own. It is fabulous country and an easy trek into town, with good food and very nice people on the other end!

4 stars

Wet'n'Windy - England

September 2009

Sitting out on the terrace in the sunshine with superb views is really wonderful

4 stars

scot_traveller - Germany

September 2009

5 stars

Ricki - Australia

September 2009

4 stars

LLUIS - Spain

September 2009

4.5 stars

ken murphy - England

September 2009

4 stars

olga - Spain

September 2009

4.5 stars

Stevo - Scotland

September 2009

5 stars

Allan - England

September 2009

4.5 stars

piro71 - Germany

September 2009

Nice look over the hills, good for walking and cycling. Great place to stay and a lot to look in the castle.

4 stars

bri9mar - United States of America

September 2009

5 stars

mangoman - Scotland

September 2009

5 stars

Adam - Scotland

September 2009

If you like hostelling then this is one place you really must go to. The atmosphere and setting is second to none. A mighty fine walk over the rail bridge to the pub is also a must (if it's open). Enjoy the experience.

3.5 stars

Hedgehog - England

September 2009

A great place to stay if you want an atmospheric experience and a lovely setting! The facilities are quite basic and the toilets/showers noisy and not in the best of condition, but the evening meals are excellent. The TV is in the same room as the pool table, so be prepared to be vastly disturbed, whichever one you're intending to use. Ignore the posters claiming that a Pine Marten frequents the patio....We asked the kitchen staff and they had seen it once in 5 years ! Apparently the ghost has been seen far more often (Alas, not by us, much to the frustration of our kids, who lurked in the appropriate corridors nightly and never saw a thing). During midge season, come prepared with some "skin so soft" (Avon). It's the best insect deterrent ever created !

5 stars

Reg - Scotland

September 2009

Surely the greatest youth hostel in the world

3 stars

igo - Spain

September 2009

5 stars

jameuan - Scotland

September 2009

On entering our room my nine year old and seven year old grand son,s,commented gran pa , this is like being in the Ritz. all we need is a servant? YOU have one,IT,s MEEE. A GREAT TIME WAS HAD BY ALL.

4 stars

Eliza - England

September 2009

Staying at this castle is an amazing experience - the building and the location are stunning. Allow an hour or two to go for a walk in the grounds when you visit. Earplugs are a good idea if you want a reasonable nights sleep as the 'quiet time' doesn't start until midnight.

5 stars

P and A T - England

September 2009

5 stars

alex - Spain

September 2009

3.5 stars

Dorine - Netherlands

September 2009

3.5 stars

Raphael - Spain

September 2009

5 stars

paul holmes - England

September 2009

Not a traditional hostel in the SYHA sense, but what a building ! You won't forget it.

3.5 stars

yami - Spain

September 2009

The place is really wonderfull. The castle is very amazing. I recommend to stay several days: you can enjoy the surrounding area thanks to walking paths, and incredible landscapes.

5 stars

Ségo - France

September 2009

3.5 stars

jccb72 - Spain

September 2009

4.5 stars

janerik - Sweden

September 2009

2.5 stars

The Dane - Denmark

September 2009

The hostel has got good views and a really nice walk just outside the gates. The food provided for dinner is good - but you might still be hungry afterwards. Be aware that there is a double bed availeble for booking if you want a private room. But only one of the private rooms offer this possibility.

4 stars

Lolo - Spain

September 2009

4 stars

galak - Germany

September 2009

Rent a car and travel around the north! It's great!

5 stars

alfie - England

September 2009

very easy to get to by train but not by bus if by bus you have a 4.5 mile walk

5 stars

J.L. - France

September 2009

Superbe

5 stars

Armida - Italy

September 2009

We travelled whit children, and stay at Carbisdale Caste transformed our trip in an very adventury discovering every coins of castel an looking for the gost in the evening time.

4.5 stars

MarieBé Mandin - France

September 2009

It was a great experience with 3 young children . They were very excited to sleep in a castle, and a big castle. In this youth hostel, Family are welcome . Super ! Marie ( France)

4.5 stars

nick - Scotland

September 2009

stunning location, fantastic value, superb food( 3 courses for £9.00)

5 stars

SmallWorld - Spain

August 2009

It was a great experience to stay in a castle. It is not very easy to find it, so I would recommend everybody to take a GPS with them if they travel by car.

4.5 stars

2 - Scotland

August 2009

3.5 stars

ruth seager - England

August 2009

4.5 stars

ausente - Spain

August 2009

4 stars

Peter - Scotland

August 2009

3 stars

lily - Spain

August 2009

4 stars

rafael perez - Spain

August 2009

5 stars

Chris - France

August 2009

2.5 stars

Nicole Dailcroix - France

August 2009

3 stars

mo - Netherlands

August 2009

4 stars

Christele - France

August 2009

5 stars

Flip De Ruifel - Netherlands

August 2009

Wauwie and relaxing. Arngay and Boner Bridge are interesting and there's a supermarket.

3.5 stars

francisco - Spain

August 2009

4 stars

hello - Netherlands

August 2009

2.5 stars

Jens-Rainer - Switzerland

August 2009

Its a real old castle, with all advantages and disadvantages (long ways to toilet e.g.)

4.5 stars

Giles - England

August 2009

5 stars

greenbean - England

August 2009

4.5 stars

chris - Germany

August 2009

4.5 stars

xxxx - Scotland

August 2009

5 stars

Olivia - England

August 2009

4.5 stars

a - Scotland

August 2009

5 stars

Le-Jog - England

August 2009

4.5 stars

dagge - Sweden

August 2009

3.5 stars

manuela - Switzerland

August 2009

5 stars

Jules - United States of America

August 2009

I really liked this hostel as did my two nephews. Lots of kids their age (19 and 21) to hang out with. The staff was very helpful while I was trying to re-arrange travel as well. We had to leave a day early (due to longer than expected driving times) to meet a ferry. They offered to transfer that pre-paid night to a SYHA in Glasgow. It saved a ton of stress. P.S. Helpful note: Double or triple any driving time that Google suggests! They do not take into account the winding roads and slow speeds you must drive to get anywhere in Scotland.

2 stars

jponsf - Spain

August 2009

3 stars

x - Scotland

August 2009

4.5 stars

Yolanda - Spain

August 2009

Personal muy servicial y atentos con el cliente. Gracias.

3 stars

Other - Germany

August 2009

3.5 stars

alf - Spain

August 2009

5 stars

Gon - Spain

August 2009

5 stars

tandem rider - United States of America

August 2009

4 stars

Andrea - Germany

August 2009

Great castle atmosphere, lovingly decorated.

4 stars

Michaela - England

August 2009

4.5 stars

Turnbulls - Scotland

August 2009

Standard of food for evening meal very high

4 stars

NeilG - England

August 2009

Our night at the castle, at the end of a cycle ride from land's end to john o'groats, was spoilt by the excessive noise from the many foreign syudents staying at the castle, going on unitl 3 in the morning. If this is the market you are trying to attract to this accomodation I feel you should mention it when others are booking. Certainly it wasn't on a par with my usual experience at youth hostels in Britain & not for people, walking, climbing or cycling looking for a relaxed night's sleep. Neil Gilbert

4.5 stars

Fred - France

August 2009

5 stars

rono - Switzerland

August 2009

5 stars

burns family - France

August 2009

A truly unique experience. Can't wait to go back with friends. Dinner was well worth waiting for as was the cooked breakfast!

3 stars

hannie - Netherlands

August 2009

4 stars

angeles - Spain

August 2009

3.5 stars

walkabouttom - Scotland

August 2009

4.5 stars

BALLARIN - France

August 2009

3 stars

Stut - Germany

August 2009

4 stars

Jorge - Spain

August 2009

A great hostel extremly nice but a little bit untidy inside but very good one any way If you are thinking to go there you must

5 stars

Frank - Belgium

August 2009

3.5 stars

Gijsbert - Netherlands

August 2009

Hire a bike and go to the Shin Waterfalls and see Salmon jump out of the river!

4 stars

Brian - England

August 2009

4 stars

piscator - Germany

August 2009

5 stars

Topaz2008 - England

August 2009

It was my first time in a youth hostel since I was a child. We stayed as a family of 4 and had a great time. Beautiful surroundings, excellent food and friendly staff + excellent value for money. I would recommend this hostel to everyone :-)

5 stars

elfinmyst - England

August 2009

Just enjoy a fantastic location with wonderful quiet roads, little traffic and fantastic scenery and friendly people.

5 stars

marc - Scotland

August 2009

3.5 stars

jip - Scotland

August 2009

5 stars

Bea - Spain

August 2009

Maravilloso hostel tanto por loas instalaciones, el paisaje y los empleados (en especial la recepcionista). Nosostros hemos ido con nuestros 2 hijos (13 y 8 años) y a todos nos ha encantado. Solo recalcar que seria conveniente una mejor señalización para llegar hasta allí.

3 stars

Silvie - Belgium

July 2009

4 stars

Martijn - Netherlands

July 2009

4 stars

Ace - Canada

July 2009

Staying at this Castle was alot of fun and the view was amazing, and getting there is actually pretty easy if you take the train, then you have a short walk up the road. I wish I would have known this when I was travelling there it would have saved us alot of trouble trying to find it.

4 stars

someone - Netherlands

July 2009

5 stars

chippylad - England

July 2009

4.5 stars

travelallover - England

July 2009

Wonderful experience, in a beautiful place. The tour is well worth it, to learn the history of the castle.

4.5 stars

Dave - Scotland

July 2009

This is a fantastic hostel that is extremely well-managed.

4.5 stars

gr - England

July 2009

4 stars

cush - Scotland

July 2009

A special experience for children

5 stars

joseph_ccc - Spain

July 2009

4 stars

chainsaw earl - Canada

July 2009

3.5 stars

Sam - Scotland

July 2009

5 stars

A Rob. - Scotland

July 2009

5 stars

Mazza - England

July 2009

5 stars

Family from Silesia - Poland

July 2009

You must be here. It is only one in the world like this.

5 stars

a childs - England

July 2009

5 stars

josh8576 - Germany

July 2009

5 stars

paul - Italy

July 2009

5 stars

abcdefg - United States of America

July 2009

Fantastic! It has been 8 years since my last visit and the place has only gotten better. When I last visited, I was single and traveling alone. This time, I brought along my husband and two young daughters. They absolutely loved it. Just the idea of staying in a castle excited them, but when they saw the castle dog (Spots) they were totally sold. We spent the afternoon going on short walks around the castle and our only complaint is that we didn't get to stay long enough.

3.5 stars

Rochen76 - Germany

July 2009

4 stars

Silke - Germany

July 2009

4 stars

7ft - England

June 2009

5 stars

Ann - England

June 2009

4 stars

Frank - Germany

June 2009

Stunning atmosphere and great location: where else in the world do you have a youth hostel with stuccoed ceilings, a genuine sculpture collection and its own ghost? While brushing your teeth you can even enjoy the view across the valley. Definitely worth a visit

3 stars

Anonymous - United States of America

June 2009

5 stars

whoever - Australia

June 2009

5 stars

Jean Elrick - Scotland

June 2009

love coming to Carbisdale Castle the food is good the staff are friendly and helpfull and the views are second to none cant wait to go back.

4.5 stars

The Dutchies - Netherlands

June 2009

Unique experience in a unique castle. We felt like a king and queen. Look out, we will come back.

4 stars

alex - Scotland

June 2009

5 stars

Adrian - Scotland

June 2009

4.5 stars

Heinz - Austria

June 2009

4 stars

trommel - Australia

June 2009

5 stars

vivillaume - France

June 2009

4.5 stars

Carsten - Denmark

June 2009

3.5 stars

Jörg - Germany

June 2009

4.5 stars

vince - England

June 2009

be careful walking accross footbridge in cycle shoes

5 stars

outdoorsman - England

June 2009

4 stars

Paco - Spain

June 2009

Absolutley stunning hostel

5 stars

Harris Keillar - Scotland

June 2009

4.5 stars

Munroist - England

June 2009

For time-travellers I recommend The Crask Inn.

4.5 stars

Rach - England

June 2009

5 stars

pili blanco - Venezuela

June 2009

5 stars

Fambo - France

May 2009

Walking around the castle

5 stars

11111111111 - Scotland

May 2009

4.5 stars

J - Scotland

May 2009

4.5 stars

kaschoe - Germany

May 2009

4 stars

geoffroy - France

May 2009

wonderfull location for a family

4.5 stars

garibaldi - England

May 2009

3.5 stars

Tres. CBMC - Scotland

May 2009

well worth the travel up....all the way from Lochwinnoch

4.5 stars

Cromtec - Scotland

May 2009

4 stars

Patrick - Belgium

May 2009

5 stars

gustavo letner - Argentina

May 2009

very nice place to stay. !!!

4.5 stars

Rod - England

May 2009

One of the finest views from a hostel window in the uk and a ghost to share my room with

4.5 stars

powerj from the USA - United States of America

May 2009

We had a wonderful time at the castle Wish we could have stayed longer One night is not enough The grounds and the castle are amazing I will definately stay there again

5 stars

none - Switzerland

May 2009

5 stars

Test - Scotland

May 2009

4 stars

snowypetrel - Scotland

May 2009

I was cycling from Culrain over to Achiltibuie so the location was perfect as a starting/end point. Having the station so close to the hostel was a bonus. Very handy to get to and from.

4 stars

yeung - Scotland

May 2009

4.5 stars

AEB - United States of America

May 2009

Very interesting atmosphere and high quality hostel. Great place for a stop while exploring Scotland. Bring or rent bikes to see the area.

4 stars

Angela - Scotland

May 2009

4.5 stars

sean - England

May 2009

A must visit hostel.

4 stars

MONICA - Spain

April 2009

4 stars

Marion - France

April 2009

4 stars

Bishop - Scotland

April 2009

1.5 stars

iustus - Spain

April 2009

5 stars

Emmanuel - France

April 2009

5 stars

Derek B - England

April 2009

Fantastic stay a must for all families plenty of room for children to run. Staff unbelievably friendly

4 stars

Elfo - Spain

April 2009

4.5 stars

bikerboy - Scotland

November 2008

5 stars

Fi - Scotland

November 2008

Had a great visit to Carbisdale in September 2008 The dinner provided was excellent generous portion sizes wholesome food with a vegetarian option and great value for money We travelled by train as the station for the castle is so handy

4 stars

KK - Scotland

November 2008

4 stars

jake - England

November 2008

SYHA - ratings, reviews and travel tips!