SYHA - ratings, reviews and travel tips!

Ratagan

5 stars

ASW - England

November 2011

I would recommend a stay at the Ratagan , took the kids and they thought it was a great place to stop. The staff are very helpful and the location has brilliant views across the loch.

4 stars

claudia - Netherlands

November 2011

4.5 stars

rover - Scotland

October 2011

5 stars

anfri - Germany

October 2011

4 stars

Frances - Australia

October 2011

A great hostel, great location and very friendly and helpful hostel staff. This was our favourite hostel stay in the UK.

4.5 stars

Cheeky Chilli Mike - Scotland

October 2011

Excellent hostel - good facilities - beautiful location - friendly atmosphere

5 stars

Sandy - Scotland

October 2011

Warm, friendly, welcoming hostel. Will definitely be back!

4 stars

Kerstin - Germany

October 2011

4 stars

charles - Scotland

October 2011

5 stars

Jason - Scotland

October 2011

Wonderful Youth Hostel. Warden is very friendly & helpful.

5 stars

one sister - Sweden

October 2011

Great location for hillwalking. Friendly and helpful staff. Accessable by public transport, loads of hills nearby.

4.5 stars

annie - Scotland

October 2011

4.5 stars

Jesper - Denmark

October 2011

5 stars

Helen - England

October 2011

5 stars

Liz - England

October 2011

Really superb !

4 stars

jai - Scotland

October 2011

Ratagan is functional and efficient - exactly what you need. If you are on foot, and have no transport, and the weather is awful, you need to have contingency plans for how you are going to spend your time as the hostel is not supposed to be open during the day. Public transport options are quite sparse. I have found it confusing trying to catch buses towards Shiel Bridge at the Cluanie Inn - conflicting information as to where to stand from the bus drivers. Whatever, make sure you give the drivers a big wave to signal that you want to board or they will just sail by!

5 stars

ianf1 - Scotland

October 2011

4.5 stars

Robin - Sweden

September 2011

5 stars

Helen - Scotland

September 2011

3.5 stars

Kintail explorer - Scotland

September 2011

5 stars

Mick Wood - England

September 2011

5 stars

Jennifer S - Scotland

September 2011

5 stars

Frank van Tienen - Netherlands

September 2011

verry friendly staff,perfect kitchen en beautiful area, i'll be back!

4.5 stars

Magdalene - England

September 2011

5 stars

Lapinot - Germany

September 2011

4.5 stars

Franzi - Germany

September 2011

4.5 stars

pioneer - England

September 2011

excellent hostel with helpful staff. If you are planning a walking holiday having a friend with a second car makes life so much easier .

4.5 stars

gnter - Germany

September 2011

5 stars

Ruth - Scotland

September 2011

Beautiful peaceful location, not too far from main road, local bus calls by. Excellent walking and climbing all around. Boating too I guess. I always meet interesting people when I am here. Remember your anti midgy spray/cream! My favorite hostel.

4 stars

Mellalieu - England

September 2011

4 stars

boli - Scotland

September 2011

4.5 stars

helenP - England

August 2011

5 stars

thearlaichdubh - Scotland

August 2011

Carnan Cruithead is a superb, but rarely visited Graham 10 minutes drive from the hostel. An Cruachan is rather harder but well worth the visit if you have 12 hours

4.5 stars

Ash - England

August 2011

4.5 stars

watership - Spain

August 2011

5 stars

Rambler1 - Ireland (Northern)

August 2011

5 stars

giles45 - England

August 2011

Friendly and accommodating staff. Situated in a wonderful location on the banks of Loch Duich. On a nice day the views from the hostel are fabulous. One of my favourite hostels in Scotland.

3.5 stars

heathcote - England

August 2011

1.5 stars

kim - Spain

August 2011

Smelly bathrooms and a crowd of litle mosquitos waiting outside to bit you, a nigthmare if you want yo go with your family.

4.5 stars

Luxfuit - France

August 2011

5 stars

Tom - Austria - Austria

August 2011

4.5 stars

Joe - Germany

August 2011

5 stars

Cyrille - France

August 2011

Auberge située tout au bord d'un magnifique Loch, à quelques km du célèbre Donan Castle et à 40 minutes de l'île de Skye. Accueil excellent et atmosphère très chaleureuse, notamment dans le salon, convivial, avec PC, revues et romans. Très propre. A recommander. En Écosse, les auberges dites de jeunesse rassemblent en fait des gens de tous les âges ! Nous étions un couple et trois enfants ! Tout s'est très bien passé ! La personne à l’accueil était particulièrement sympathique et nous a dépanné, car nous avions oublié les serviettes de bain !

4 stars

JB - New Zealand

August 2011

5 stars

Pierre - France

August 2011

4 stars

struan - Scotland

August 2011

5 stars

julian Mellor - England

August 2011

Wonderful friendly hostel with views to die for. We came for five nights with two small boys (3 & 6) - throwing stones on the beach kept them entertained for hours and the garden was about big enough to kick a ball around (gently!). The staff were really geared up to kids (paper, crayons and a great gallery) which was very appreciated. Well equipped kitchen (much better than English hostels), comfortable dining room and lovely lounge. Lots of good places to explore in the vicinity (walk to the broch beyond Letterfearn, or find the beaches at Glenelg and Amisdale) although the car was a daily necessity. Come equipped with all you need though - garage shop at Shiel Bridge only has absolute basics so nearest s'mkt (Co-op) is at Lochalsh.

4.5 stars

Joan - Scotland

August 2011

4.5 stars

victoria s - Scotland

August 2011

Ratagan: one of the most scenically situated hostels in Scotland - don't miss it if you are travelling on the west coast of Scotland.

5 stars

Laurence H - England

August 2011

5 stars

Ag - Scotland

August 2011

Peter, the man who runs y.h, was very knowledable about the area and what people could do. He showed keen interest in everyone. His wife had herbs in the kitchen window which were a lovely touch. The hostel was cleaner than some hotels I've stayed in.

5 stars

no name - England

August 2011

Great hostel, great staff.

5 stars

Charlie - England

August 2011

Fantastic place to stay, great location with helpful knowledgeable and friendly staff.

5 stars

Dave - England

August 2011

wonderfull place

5 stars

Anne - Ireland (Northern)

August 2011

This is a fabulous hostel-clean, comfortable and well run. It's in a gorgeous location, near to the 5 sisters hills for walkers and to the wonderful Applecross penninsula. We saw porpoises swimming in the sea loch while eating breakfast. It's magical!

5 stars

Mike - Russia

August 2011

4.5 stars

Thomas - Switzerland

August 2011

4.5 stars

ukrspen - England

July 2011

4.5 stars

Jules - Scotland

July 2011

3.5 stars

scenic cyclist - Scotland

July 2011

5 stars

Luis - Spain

July 2011

4.5 stars

Heli - Finland

July 2011

5 stars

Jerry - England

July 2011

4.5 stars

IB - Ireland (Northern)

July 2011

4.5 stars

German Couple - Germany

July 2011

5 stars

Paolo Merci - Italy

July 2011

When you will leave the hostel, go to Skye by GlenElg Ferry. Wonderful experience.

4 stars

bill nicoll - Scotland

July 2011

4.5 stars

jimmy - England

July 2011

4 stars

benbheiol - Scotland

July 2011

5 stars

gerrymac - England

July 2011

If you want to enjoy the magnificent views over Loch Duich to the 5 sisters of Kintail from outside the hostel take a midge net in summer.

4 stars

Cuillins Bagger - England

July 2011

5 stars

alison - Scotland

July 2011

5 stars

windy - Scotland

July 2011

Loved this hostel, staff were friendly and helpful, setting was beautiful, stayed in the private four bed room with the girls in our party , which was large and comfortable. The males in our group who shared the big male dorm, did have a slight problem with the loud snoring, but the 2nd night of their stay i think they gave as good as they got the previous night !!!

5 stars

Babs, Glasgow - Scotland

July 2011

Friendly, clean, comfortable hostel in a great location. We left the car behind and enjoyed some beautiful lower level walks over a long weekend.

5 stars

Damian - England

July 2011

This hostel is in a perfect location, among the trees, right by the sea, with seven Munros within easy walking distance - and lots more if you get the bus up the glen. There is only one small shop in the area (on the main road) so it's a good idea to bring enough food for your first day. They have plenty of maps and leaflets about walks in the area.

4.5 stars

Dirk - Belgium

July 2011

great

4 stars

Kris - Belgium

July 2011

5 stars

JulieGlasvegas - Germany

June 2011

2.5 stars

Wuyts Paul - Belgium

June 2011

5 stars

JW - Ireland (Northern)

June 2011

5 stars

DMcG - Scotland

June 2011

What a gem of a hostel! Beautiful setting, friendly staff and great facilities. I'll definitely be back.

4.5 stars

madmike - England

June 2011

4.5 stars

cdej - Scotland

June 2011

5 stars

Mindy - England

June 2011

Fantastic location and great for a family. We loved it here. It is one of our favourite hostels.

5 stars

Helen - England

June 2011

4.5 stars

fakenhamsno1 - Scotland

June 2011

Excellent hostel in stunning location. Good facilities and great common room.

4.5 stars

aprilmay - England

June 2011

5 stars

JS - Scotland

June 2011

5 stars

Chris - Ireland (Republic)

June 2011

5 stars

lesleyg - Ireland (Northern)

June 2011

4.5 stars

Chris - England

June 2011

A lovely spot when the weather is good - which it is occasionally

4 stars

Nigel Spackman - England

June 2011

The hostel is a great base for "Munro baggers", with 23 in reach by foot, bike or bus.

5 stars

JJ - England

June 2011

3.5 stars

TomShaw - England

June 2011

One of the best located hostels on the mainland of Scotland, outstanding views from the hostel situated right on the loch shore, superb location for wildlife.

5 stars

***** - England

June 2011

5 stars

Ian - England

June 2011

Handy hostel within easy reach of a large number of Munros, with a dramatic scenic backdrop, yet within two hours of Inverness as well

5 stars

Sandy - Scotland

June 2011

4.5 stars

Adam - Scotland

May 2011

5 stars

neil - England

May 2011

4 stars

Nick - England

May 2011

4.5 stars

Dickie - England

May 2011

5 stars

Vivers - Scotland

May 2011

Fantastic wee hostel in a beautiful location. The lady running the place was very friendly and helpful.

4 stars

alanw - England

May 2011

5 stars

Johnny 99 - England

May 2011

Beautiful location.

2.5 stars

pat - Scotland

May 2011

4.5 stars

Joe D - England

May 2011

probably the best hostel i've been to. fantastic having the loch and the five sisters right on the doorstep. take a leisurely bicycle ride over the hill to glenelg.

5 stars

Hallaig - Scotland

May 2011

Very friendly staff, great setting looking up the loch and a very cosy and comfortable hostel. Definately be back.

5 stars

David/Barbara - Scotland

May 2011

We stayed there for only one night but what a view and location, we left there to go to skye came back then over to ullaport the costal route. The hostel is perfectly located for both of these locations and I would recommend it to anybody.

5 stars

Keith Allen - England

May 2011

4 stars

Duncan - Scotland

May 2011

4.5 stars

genevieve MIGEAL - Belgium

May 2011

The staff is very helpfull and welcoming. The place is more than beautifull!

4.5 stars

Al - Scotland

May 2011

Trying to capture an early-morning view of the Five Sisters through the mist, I was suddenly aware of a pair of porpoises moving slowly up the loch past the hostel - everyone in the dining area rushed out to see them. Magic !!!!

5 stars

Rachel, Kent - England

May 2011

Loved it. It was the best for location, comfort and atmosphere. The couple running it are great too.

5 stars

Mary - Anne - England

May 2011

We were told that it might be possible to see Sea Otters coming up on the lawn in front of the hostel but sadly we didn't see any! The views from the lawn were beautiful.

4.5 stars

leehebrides - Scotland

May 2011

4.5 stars

mr j speirs - Scotland

April 2011

i use ratagan hostel as a half way point, when traveling from ayrshire to harris, and back agen. need to book though, can be bussy.

4.5 stars

HannahV - England

April 2011

This is a cosy small hostel by the loch, with a great atmosphere and plenty of like-minded guests to talk to! Also loved the fact there was lots of outdoor magazines to read, which not all hostels seem to have. Next time I come I think I will bring some of my own magazines to the collection for future guests to use!

5 stars

jo - Scotland

April 2011

5 stars

HappyTraveler - United States of America

April 2011

Staff friendly and helpful. Have to pay for internet.

4.5 stars

Xris18 - Scotland

April 2011

What a brilliant place to stay. A hostel I love returning to. The location and scenery are breathtaking.

4 stars

y - Scotland

April 2011

4 stars

Radetzky - England

April 2011

5 stars

BW No1 - Scotland

April 2011

4.5 stars

swasl1 - Wales

November 2010

A real gem, this has to be on everyone's list of hostels to visit.

5 stars

rockyr - England

November 2010

5 stars

Jenny - England

November 2010

Make sure you have stocked up with fresh veg, fruit etc as shopping limited. This hostel is in a divine setting, and the staff are wonderfully helpful. Best hostel I've stayed in.

4 stars

Closeureyes - Scotland

November 2010

5 stars

Eiles - England

November 2010

As with other Scottish hostels I visited, they had a free food shelf - something you don't get in the English ones any more!

5 stars

Mary - Scotland

November 2010

Excellent hostel with fantastic mountain views on the doorstep, very helpful staff - and a good supply of fresh dry tea towels in the kitchen each day!

5 stars

Rob - Scotland

November 2010

The bus was waiting outside the Hostel on Monday morning for a few minutes before 9am when it was due to leave.

4.5 stars

kyle - Scotland

October 2010

5 stars

Janet Gaywood - Scotland

October 2010

5 stars

Birgit - Denmark

October 2010

5 stars

Jacqui - Scotland

October 2010

Great hostel in beautiful location. Where else in Scotland can you eat breakfast overlooking the Five Sisters of Kintail? The staff were great - we arrived late from further north and the warden left the door open, room keys and linen in the hall waiting for us.

5 stars

Susan - United States of America

October 2010

The views from this hostel are incredible. I enjoyed my stay here and on my next trip I will try to spend more time at this hostel. The staff was very friendly and accommodating. The facilities are very good.

5 stars

dornyd - England

October 2010

The Ratagan hostel has a chalet feel about it, very cosy and a welcome retreat from the Scottish weather! it's situated right on the shores of the lake and the view is a spectacular greeting when you come out in the morning. The drive over the mountain to the litle ferry to Skye is recommended as Scotland scenery at it's best.

5 stars

Callum - Scotland

October 2010

4 stars

Susan - Scotland

October 2010

3.5 stars

tricia - New Zealand

October 2010

4.5 stars

Heather - Scotland

October 2010

One of the most beautiful locations of any hostel I've been to. Lots of room for cooking, eating and relaxing. Highly recommended!

4.5 stars

surfcat - England

October 2010

An amazing hostel in an idyllic location yet surprisingly accessible.

4.5 stars

adyb - England

October 2010

Stunning location right on loch Duich with great views accross the loch to the head of Glen Shiel. A nice friendly hostel. My first visit there this year, I'm sure I'll be back again.

4.5 stars

Bob - England

October 2010

5 stars

SB - Scotland

September 2010

An attractive and well maintained hostel with lovely views of the glen sheil mountains and lochside.

4.5 stars

FromFrankfurt - Germany

September 2010

5 stars

Flite - England

September 2010

Stunning location and a friendly welcome - highly recommended

5 stars

Colin - Scotland

September 2010

This Hostel is in a stunning lakeside location, I only stayed for the 1 night as we were just passing through on a trip, but I would have no problems staying for any length of time.

5 stars

jo - Scotland

September 2010

Very comfortable youth hostel, great views ideal location. Only slight negative is the kitchen size, it can be crampt when busy. Very happy with my stay.

5 stars

American_traveler - United States of America

September 2010

Great hostel!

5 stars

bella - England

September 2010

very helpfull and frendly staff wonderfull setting otters seen on the loch ,can not wait to come back

4.5 stars

Rob.vomp - Scotland

September 2010

5 stars

skog - Scotland

September 2010

5 stars

Maggi - Wales

September 2010

Superb hostel. Stunning location. Stack of freshly washed and ironed tea-towels every day in the kitchen! Staff very helpful and friendly. Excellent facilities.

4 stars

fish - Germany

September 2010

5 stars

figheadair - Scotland

September 2010

Wake up with views of the Five Sisters. A most outstanding location that's ideal for the hills, exploring Kintail and Skye. You always meet agreat group of people there. Definitely in my top 10 of hostals worldwide.

4.5 stars

K66 - Scotland

September 2010

5 stars

alex - England

September 2010

4.5 stars

sam - Wales

September 2010

5 stars

Pete - England

September 2010

4 stars

Paola - Canada

September 2010

4.5 stars

Walker - England

September 2010

4.5 stars

Rovin - England

September 2010

Good hostel, without being amazing (like some of the other Scottish hostels)... friendly staff, beautiful location...

5 stars

pg - England

September 2010

Again a very friendly welcom. No complaints at all.

4.5 stars

DJZ - England

September 2010

4.5 stars

Klaas - Netherlands

August 2010

4.5 stars

rockyr - England

August 2010

5 stars

Magali - France

August 2010

5 stars

michal - Israel

August 2010

3.5 stars

Brianna - United States of America

August 2010

2.5 stars

H - England

August 2010

4.5 stars

chrisw - England

August 2010

5 stars

jane saleem - England

August 2010

5 stars

Jai - Scotland

August 2010

There are a lot of Munros close at hand. Frustratingly close if you don't have a vehicle, as walking or cycling along the main road in Glen Shiel is a bit scary traffic-wise. The City Link buses are regular enough to be of use and get in a full day's walking. Most of the drivers are incredibly helpful, but there are a few grumpy ones like everywhere.

4 stars

Ann - England

August 2010

absolutely stunning location, I will definately use this hostel again

4 stars

Eckhard Möx - Germany

August 2010

5 stars

sandrine - France

August 2010

bon accueil, personnel attentif et très sympathique, propreté impeccable, lieu très calme et très agréable, dommage qu'il n'y ait pas les services de repas,

4 stars

abcxyz - Austria

August 2010

5 stars

Helveticus - Switzerland

August 2010

The stunning location of this comfortable hostel makes it a favourite of ours to which we return again and again

4 stars

Stéphane CARTI - France

August 2010

4.5 stars

Patrick (Antwerp, Belgium) - Belgium

August 2010

Good stay, kind and helpful host, wonderful location. Don't expect luxury, but everything that a hostel should offer is there.

4.5 stars

gordon - Scotland

August 2010

5 stars

Kenny - Scotland

August 2010

Look out for the porpoise and otters on the foreshore outside the hostel.

4.5 stars

Norman - Scotland

August 2010

5 stars

Knaughty - Scotland

July 2010

A hostel with fantastic atmosphere in a perfect location for awesome sightseeing or serious hill walking

5 stars

Imre and Jutta - Scotland

July 2010

5 stars

Robert B. - Germany

July 2010

5 stars

Canuck - Canada

July 2010

4.5 stars

xxx - England

July 2010

4.5 stars

charles - Scotland

July 2010

5 stars

Steve M - England

July 2010

3 stars

ljs - Scotland

July 2010

3 stars

Lilizen - France

July 2010

4.5 stars

leonie - Netherlands

July 2010

4 stars

Muddy - Germany

July 2010

4 stars

RR - England

July 2010

5 stars

bob evans - Wales

July 2010

5 stars

Swissj - Switzerland

July 2010

There was a very warm welcome and I just felt comfortable, save and secure from arriving till departing... The kitchen is nice, big and clean and also the bathroom is neat! I enjoyed staying there!

5 stars

anonymous - Poland

July 2010

5 stars

J&J - Scotland

July 2010

Falls of Glomach are fantastic but a strenuous walk for young kids.

1.5 stars

jenny - Australia

July 2010

3.5 stars

Signal7 - England

July 2010

Take a midge net and repellant in summer

4.5 stars

merrick - England

July 2010

4 stars

Brookie - England

July 2010

Fantastic situation, friendly and efficient staff. The hostel just needs some repairs doing.

4.5 stars

germi - Italy

July 2010

4 stars

John - Scotland

July 2010

A very good Youth Hostel in an outstanding scenic location

4 stars

monique - Netherlands

July 2010

4.5 stars

steve - Ireland (Northern)

July 2010

beautiful lakeside location but will need midge spray - Avon Skin So Soft recommended

4.5 stars

Gary Copley - England

June 2010

An excellent hostel. Probably one of the best views in Scotland from the front door. The staff were fabulous and I had a really enjoyable stay (3rd year)

4.5 stars

Paul - Scotland

June 2010

Excellent place to stay. Beautiful setting, helpul and friendly staff, genuine community feel

5 stars

Heightschapel - England

June 2010

This is a lovely hostel in a beautiful setting. It is also convenient and accessible. Highly recommended.

4.5 stars

Susie - Switzerland

June 2010

Beautiful location, exceptionally clean hostel and kitchen. Breakfast overlooking the loch - can't get any better than this. Great bar food in a nearby hotel ( Kintail) too.

5 stars

Irishrover - Australia

June 2010

Great wee spot, friendly staff, highly recommended

4.5 stars

rangernic - Scotland

June 2010

One of my favourite hostels, great location for walking and cycling.

4.5 stars

Suilven - Scotland

June 2010

The best view from any hostel.

4 stars

BWR - Ireland (Northern)

June 2010

4.5 stars

inarush - England

June 2010

Stayed here only 1 night and regretted it - lovely peaceful setting and views from the hostel of the shore, loch and mountains beyond. Children loved pottering about on the seaweedy beach and we enjoyed watching a couple of herons..

4.5 stars

Colin watson - England

June 2010

3.5 stars

Canuck - Canada

June 2010

5 stars

Ian - England

June 2010

If you want a beer bring your own - there nearest watering hole is 45 minutes walk.

5 stars

grumpy - Scotland

June 2010

Excellent base for hill-walking (Munros, tops and Corbetts)

4.5 stars

stevie hubb - Scotland

June 2010

4 stars

.,;,,nn - England

June 2010

4 stars

Anon - Scotland

June 2010

5 stars

Doug - England

June 2010

Have no fears about stopping at SYHA they are brilliant

4.5 stars

charles - Scotland

June 2010

1.5 stars

Alberto - Spain

June 2010

4 stars

Lynne - England

May 2010

5 stars

weevil - Scotland

May 2010

3.5 stars

verycloseshave - Scotland

May 2010

5 stars

Clare - England

May 2010

An excellent hostel in a very convenient location

4.5 stars

Duncan - Scotland

May 2010

5 stars

Richard D - England

May 2010

5 stars

Pat - Scotland

May 2010

I always enjoy my stay up in ratagan, its like going home for me, even though its almost 160 miles away, but the best bit is the amazing wildlife on its doorstop, that is totally priceless, especially on a previous trip where i finally saw otters, then last weekend, 3 porpoises in one sitting, not to mention the numerous munro's potentially attainable from the centre,

4.5 stars

Mike - Scotland

May 2010

3.5 stars

rob - England

May 2010

4 stars

sophie - Switzerland

May 2010

3.5 stars

www.theosphotos.fotopic.net - Netherlands

May 2010

4.5 stars

kb - England

May 2010

5 stars

RichD - England

May 2010

5 stars

LESLEY GREGG - Ireland (Northern)

May 2010

Excellent base for walkers. Stunning scenery. Great location,right on the loch shore

5 stars

J and Morv - Scotland

May 2010

Ratagan is the hidden gem in the highlands. Set on the edge of the loch with the mountains in the background, it is an ideal place to forget about the big city and watch the abundant wildlife. The staff are very friendly and knowledgeable about the surrounding area. The sitting room is spacious with great views. The kitchen is further down the hall, so you dont have to smell other peoples attempts at cooking, and there is a large dining area. We will be back again next year.

5 stars

Roger Chartres - Scotland

May 2010

4.5 stars

Lucy - England

May 2010

4 stars

quacks - Scotland

April 2010

5 stars

Ne Obliviscaris - England

April 2010

4.5 stars

oldshoremore - Scotland

April 2010

5 stars

Nora - France

April 2010

4.5 stars

part - Argentina

April 2010

5 stars

CAFI - Scotland

April 2010

5 stars

Soulminer - Scotland

April 2010

A lovely, relaxing place as a base for outdoor pursuits. Set in one of my favourite parts of Scotland, so the views are magnificent.

4.5 stars

Orlando - England

April 2010

5 stars

tqdd - England

April 2010

5 stars

Bronnie - New Zealand

April 2010

This little SYHA has a beautiful outlook onto the loch and we saw a spectacle of wildlife including, otters, harbour porpoises and bats. We even had one little bat join us in the lounge at night, silently flying around in circles! I loved the atmosphere and would organise a longer stay next time.

5 stars

tstatho - Greece

April 2010

It is a highly recommendable place to stay, in terms of its location, one of the best I've ever stayed! It's literally on the lake, with a beautiful scenery, nice garden, cosy atmosphere. Ideal for trips to the Isle of Skye and the nearby areas. I went there by chance and I was really amazed!

4.5 stars

Richard J. - England

April 2010

A lovely lockside setting in beautiful GlenShiel on the road to Skye it would take a lot to find a Youth Hostel more welcoming and comfortable than Ratagan. The facilities are very good, the staff pleasant and I would certainly recommend staying there, if only for a night.

5 stars

din - Scotland

April 2010

4 stars

Johnston B - Scotland

April 2010

5 stars

Wm.Lyon - Wales

April 2010

where ever you are travelling the Y.H.A wether eng/wales or scotland you would find home comfort backpackers is mixed sharing and in some places packed like sardines regards to scottish youth hostels i highly reccomend you give it a go if you can bag a munro or an island then bag a youth hostel W Lyon Swansea Life member aged 74yrs

4.5 stars

Chris - Germany

April 2010

A very beautiful location! I really enjoyed it and wish I could have stayed longer.

4.5 stars

anonymous - Scotland

April 2010

5 stars

Andre - England

April 2010

5 stars

donald - Scotland

April 2010

4 stars

colly - England

April 2010

5 stars

ian - England

April 2010

5 stars

Glenmore - Scotland

January 2010

3.5 stars

Jennie - Scotland

November 2009

4.5 stars

Robin - England

November 2009

3.5 stars

hero - England

November 2009

4.5 stars

madeleinewilson - Scotland

November 2009

4.5 stars

Ted Casey - England

November 2009

5 stars

sc - Scotland

October 2009

Excellent Hostel

4.5 stars

k - Denmark

October 2009

5 stars

hydealfred - England

October 2009

4.5 stars

The Oakley Family - Scotland

October 2009

4 stars

Joey - Belgium

October 2009

A very cosy hostel on a beautiful location and a warm welcome from a friendly warden who immediately makes you feel at home. A must if you're in the neighbourhood!

5 stars

Juliengel79 - Germany

October 2009

My favourite SYHA hostel!

4.5 stars

anon - Scotland

October 2009

4 stars

phil - Scotland

October 2009

5 stars

SK - England

October 2009

I would strongly recommand you to get to the hostel when there is still daylight if you haven't been there before. AsI have found out it's difficult to find your way at night because there is no street light at the important junction. No SYHA either or maybe I just could see it at night. However, everything else is fantasitc there and I would definitely go back. The best hostel I have ever stayed.

4 stars

Ripley - Germany

October 2009

A nice and quiet place to stay at the shore of Loch Duich. Beautiful landscape and wildlife. You can see otters and sometimes even dolphins in front of the youth hostel. Staff is nice and helpful. Beds and facillities are good and clean. My favourite place on my jouney through Scotland.

5 stars

charles - Scotland

October 2009

The location gives access to one off Scotland's most beautiful areas

5 stars

Mireille - Canada

October 2009

Best hostel ever!!! great view, great people, great walks at the doorstep!

4.5 stars

Joan - Scotland

October 2009

A really comfortable, friendly hostel in a great setting.

4.5 stars

D from Edinburgh - Scotland

October 2009

Really enjoyed our stay at Ratagan. Warden was friendly and informative, hostel was clean and tidy, everything felt relaxed.

4 stars

Frizzly - England

October 2009

4.5 stars

Stuart - Scotland

October 2009

4.5 stars

Peter S - Scotland

October 2009

A clean and comfortable hostel in a stunning situation. Great walking close by.

5 stars

Gaelle Evrard - Belgium

October 2009

Glenfinnan Viaduct to see the steam train (from the Harry Potter movies) + Isle of Skye

4 stars

n/a - Scotland

October 2009

5 stars

anonymous - England

September 2009

3.5 stars

HappyMoose - England

September 2009

This is a tidy clean hostel in a beautiful spot. The necessity to vacate the premises between 10am and 5pm is a bit of a bind so plan your activities before-hand. There is plenty to do there and you are only a short road trip from the Kyle of Lochalsh and Skye and pretty central to a lot of good climbing and sightseeing. The nearby pub has an expensive but good quality menu of meals but I recommend you take some food with you; I didn't and was forced to find my food mostly at the pub.

4 stars

ChriS - England

September 2009

5 stars

ELAINE HALL... GLASGOW - Scotland

September 2009

Remember the hostel does not let you in until about 5pm. The scenery around the hostel is fantastic. The kitchen facilities are excellentand the hostel has a dining area for your family to eat.

5 stars

CD - Scotland

September 2009

A great hostel for walkers - really appreciated the drying room and the box of newspapers to help me dry out my boots! Staff were great - very friendly and helpful. Would definitely go back.

4 stars

bri9mar - United States of America

September 2009

Ratagan has a wonderful location at the edge of a lake with a backdrop of mountains. Had the best-kept lawn of any of the six hostels I stayed at.

4.5 stars

Hosteller 24 - Scotland

September 2009

3.5 stars

Bakerbloke - England

September 2009

Remember to take all your food with you - it really is remote! and no shops nearby. Would recommend the single Bus service per day that connects to Kyle of Lochalsh. Nice garden area for kids to play in which extends to the Loch.

5 stars

Magda - England

September 2009

Lovely location, great views from the hostel and very friendly staff. I truly enjoyed my stay. Higly recommended hostel.

5 stars

Angelika - Germany

September 2009

4.5 stars

Bert - Scotland

September 2009

This delightful hostel is set amidst the dynamic highland scenery on the edge of Loch Duich, and only a couple of miles from the famous Eilean Donan Castle. The hostel is very well equiped and is the idea location for hillwalking, with the Five Sisters of Kintail; The South Glen Shiel ridge and Beinn Fhada all very close by. The hostel boasts an excellent drying room (vital for the weather here is unpredicatable). If you want a beer in the evening, it is a 20 minute walk to the local hotel, or take your own and enjoy a relax on the shore of the loch. You will not be disappointed with Ratagan YH - I recently stayed there for a weekend along with 18 friends (to compleat my last Munro) and everyone had nothing but compliments to say of Ratagan.

5 stars

HelenR - England

September 2009

5 stars

Anne - England

September 2009

4.5 stars

Rob-Roy - Scotland

September 2009

5 stars

Al Dewart - Scotland

September 2009

A great hostel in a fantastic location.

5 stars

ania - Poland

September 2009

5 stars

Jennifer Fordyce - Scotland

September 2009

5 stars

Pat - Scotland

September 2009

As always i thoroughly enjoyed my short stay in this wonderful hostel, which has the most amazing views, and also the added bonus of the porpoises playing in the loch very near the hostel,, perfect.

4 stars

joe - France

September 2009

5 stars

amber - Scotland

August 2009

4 stars

luther - England

August 2009

3.5 stars

ger - Scotland

August 2009

5 stars

Shona - Scotland

August 2009

A great hostel, well equipped and in a fantastic location. A restfuland inspiring spot from which to enjoy the local wildlife, scenery and historic sites such as nearby Eilean Donan Castle.

3 stars

Nicole Dailcroix - France

August 2009

5 stars

Ann - England

August 2009

4 stars

scottie - Germany

August 2009

4.5 stars

chris - Germany

August 2009

4 stars

SAHLI - France

August 2009

4.5 stars

thb - Scotland

August 2009

4.5 stars

allan mcgregor - edinburgh - Scotland

August 2009

The Ratagan website has really excellent links to what to do during your stay and i strongly suggest you check them out especially google 3d maps of the area...a fantastic resource. Excellent staff make a stay at this hostel a highly pleasurable experience. The location provides views up and down Loch Duich and there are the five sisters of Kintail to see. Highly recommend the walk to the ruined broch near Totaig. The air is clean and wildlife abounds...long may it be so.

5 stars

Custard - England

August 2009

5 stars

Teresa Burns - France

August 2009

Well worth the trip off the beaten track!

4.5 stars

jponsf - Spain

August 2009

5 stars

Jai - Scotland

August 2009

I really loved this hostel - it could well be my favourite. What a view! If you are a fussy veggie eater like me on foot It is a long way from the nearest shop - although the Shiel Bridge garage is OK. Make sure you take in plenty of food , although the garage and the hostel are able to sustain you.

4.5 stars

Marilynbagger - Scotland

August 2009

Talk to your fellow guests so that you can leave transport at either end of the superb ridges and not have to tramp/hitch back along the A87

5 stars

Elena - Italy

August 2009

Location is fantastic, lovely place, nice and clean. The staff was very kind and helpfull. We had a very good time in Ratagan

5 stars

x - Scotland

August 2009

5 stars

Bron - Scotland

August 2009

5 stars

Keith Wright - England

August 2009

Very nice large hostel with great views of the Loch, Wild life that can be seen from the Hostel includes Otters, Eider, Heron, even the odd Golden Eagle has been spoted nearby. On the Sisters ( North Kintail Ridge ) you can see if your really lucky wild goats with masive horns.

4.5 stars

jean - England

August 2009

A Hostel in a stunning location whose rustic appearance hides a modern,well laid out, practical, yet attactive interior

3.5 stars

Oliver - New Zealand

August 2009

4.5 stars

xxx - Wales

August 2009

5 stars

Anne - England

July 2009

Really enjoyed our stay at this hostel. Fantastic location. Nice too, to see re-cycling and composting being encouraged. Fresh herbs being available in the kitchen for use in the cooking was an added bonus!

5 stars

cavey - England

July 2009

4.5 stars

tatiana - England

July 2009

Fantastic views over the loch, and lots of friendly people.

4 stars

DavidB - Scotland

July 2009

A really excellent location. I rose early and took some stunning pictures of the sunrise over the mountaind across Loch Duich.

4.5 stars

Hector - France

July 2009

4.5 stars

Monique - France

July 2009

A very nice hostel with lovely views over Loch Duich. Plenty to do in the area if you are fond of nature and wildlife.

5 stars

Charlie McGrory - England

July 2009

Fantastic location on Loch side-just the place for a cooling dip!

5 stars

Ted - Wales

July 2009

This hostel is in possibly the most beautiful location. It is a very restful place and ideal for walking.

4.5 stars

someone - Netherlands

July 2009

4.5 stars

cnicht - England

July 2009

5 stars

Jan - Australia

July 2009

As well as mountain climbing and walking, just sitting watching the constantly changing colours of the mountains in summer is something I will never forget. The Hostel was lovely, staff incredibly friendly and open, and cleanliness exceptional.

4.5 stars

gege35 - Scotland

July 2009

5 stars

sblack - England

July 2009

5 stars

allie23 - Scotland

July 2009

Fantastic views from the hostel across loch Duich to the Five Sisters. Great food at the Kintail Lodge Hotel (in the public bar). One of the best hostelling experiences I have had.

4.5 stars

sheila - Scotland

July 2009

4 stars

Leo - Scotland

July 2009

Fantastic setting, wonderful staff. Great destination for hillwalkers.

2.5 stars

lx - Scotland

July 2009

5 stars

bearwalk - United States of America

July 2009

4.5 stars

Kate - Australia

July 2009

Very enjoyable and comfortable place for the whole family. Stunning location and well worth the long drive. Good staging point for visits to the brochs around Glenelg, for Skye and to the region genrally. Unforgettable scenery. Very obliging and helpful management.

5 stars

Gandalf - Scotland

July 2009

Fabulous setting on the shore of Loch Duich. From the Hostel there is a wealth of opportunities to explore the great outdoors especially walking the many Munros within a few minutes of the hostel.

5 stars

Fellrunner - Scotland

July 2009

Great place to "get away from it all". Comfortable friendly hostel, superb walking. interesting history, and beautiful scenery.

5 stars

jonbate - Scotland

July 2009

4 stars

Squire - England

July 2009

4 stars

the Flying Scot - Scotland

July 2009

It's a great location to see Eilean Donan Castle, especially at night when it's floodlit.

5 stars

giff - England

June 2009

4 stars

somebody - United States of America

June 2009

5 stars

David Galsworthy - England

June 2009

A fantastic location for climbing the nearby Munros. A highly recommended hostal with really friendly and helpful staff.

4 stars

Mike Pratt - England

June 2009

I would not advise going to this hostel if you are a party in excess of 4. The dining room consists of 4 person pic nic combined tables and chairs and does not enable numbers in excess of 4 to gather round the same table. You cannot move them around as you can ordinary tables and chairs. The oven does not work properly.

3.5 stars

wendy - England

June 2009

4.5 stars

Heather TS - England

June 2009

A really nice wee hostel with a friendly welcome, pleasant facilities and a superb view! I walked from the Shiel Bridge bus stop in the evening so would not want to walk back to the pub for an evening dram when its cold &/or wet - advice: if on foot bring your own!

4 stars

glasgowwestendxc - Scotland

June 2009

5 stars

k - Germany

June 2009

5 stars

Liz Leicester - England

June 2009

4.5 stars

mountainman - England

June 2009

Was allowed in to make a cuppa before the 4pm registration time- great! I like non-officious,relaxed hostels. Will be back.

5 stars

pete - England

June 2009

Great Hostel,Great location...."it does exactly what it says on the tin".

4 stars

Alastair - Scotland

June 2009

4 stars

Cockfield - England

May 2009

Very handy for baging Munro's. Comfortable and sure to meet other serious walkers.

4.5 stars

Reviewer - England

May 2009

4.5 stars

Geoff - Scotland

May 2009

Wonderful location

5 stars

jean Hardman - England

May 2009

4.5 stars

RUSS - England

May 2009

5 stars

RichTea - Scotland

May 2009

4 stars

Anne - Scotland

May 2009

nice hostel beautiful location even in the rain

5 stars

one sister - England

May 2009

5 stars

gege - Scotland

May 2009

5 stars

Jools - England

May 2009

4.5 stars

Jon Freyne - England

May 2009

5 stars

alim - Germany

April 2009

5 stars

Gary - England

April 2009

3.5 stars

jeanbean - Scotland

November 2008

4.5 stars

twigg - Scotland

November 2008

4 stars

gov - Scotland

November 2008

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