Hartfield House Hostel

This accommodation, a former farm estate, offers a unique and memorable stay, distinguished by its stunning natural setting nestled between mountains and forests, providing a tranquil escape. It is particularly well-suited for cyclists exploring the NC500 route, offering excellent bike-specific facilities, and for nature enthusiasts seeking peaceful walks and wildlife viewing. Families appreciate the spacious private rooms and self-catering options, while solo travelers and backpackers find it a welcoming and well-equipped base. Guests consistently highlight the overall cleanliness and the comprehensive self-catering kitchen facilities. To make the most of your stay, consider bringing earplugs if you are a light sleeper, as some rooms can experience noise, and be prepared for the remote location by planning your meals, though excellent kitchen facilities are available.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests widely commend the extensive and well-equipped communal kitchen, which provides ample cooking ware, dishes, and storage space in fridges and a pantry, along with complimentary milk, tea, and coffee available 24 hours. The laundry facilities, including a washing machine and dryer, are a convenient addition for active travelers. Many appreciate the presence of a gym for fitness needs and a comfortable communal lounge with a TV, books, and games for relaxation. For cyclists, dedicated bike storage and maintenance equipment are highly valued. While Wi-Fi is available and generally functional, some guests reported inconsistent or poor signal in certain areas. Ample parking is also provided, adding to guest convenience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The accommodation generally receives high praise for its cleanliness, with guests consistently describing rooms and shared facilities as tidy and well-maintained. Rooms are often noted as spacious, comfortable, and warm, with some private and family rooms featuring ensuite bathrooms. However, feedback on bed comfort is mixed, with many guests reporting issues such as soft mattresses, noticeable springs, or creaky beds that impacted sleep quality. Noise levels are a recurring concern, as thin walls mean conversations, closing doors, and even sounds from adjacent rooms or extractor fans can be easily heard, potentially disturbing light sleepers. Some isolated reports mentioned a musty smell in carpets or mold in bathrooms, though these were not widespread.

Dining & Food Quality
The self-catering kitchen facilities are a standout feature, allowing guests to prepare their own meals with ease, and are frequently praised for being spacious and well-equipped. While a full breakfast is not typically offered, guests can purchase freshly baked croissants along with cheese, jam, butter, and orange juice for a convenient morning option. For other meals, the accommodation sells basic items like coffee beans and non-perishable foods, as well as pizzas and ready meals for cooking on-site. Several dining options are available nearby, including the Walled Garden restaurant and the Applecross Inn, with some guests also noting the presence of an ice cream van and a bacon roll van in the vicinity.

Location & Accessibility
The accommodation boasts a stunning and picturesque location, nestled between mountains and a forest, offering a truly tranquil and immersive natural experience. It is ideally situated for those traveling the NC500 route, providing a convenient and scenic stopover. Guests appreciate the quiet surroundings and the opportunity to observe wildlife, such as Highland cattle and deer, in neighboring paddocks. While the setting is beautiful, it is also quite isolated, with the nearest village and amenities being a walk of approximately 45 minutes. Access involves navigating single-track roads with passing places, which some drivers found challenging. Ample parking is available on-site, making it convenient for guests arriving by car.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high praise for their friendly and helpful demeanor, with many guests highlighting their welcoming and informative approach during check-in. They are often described as going out of their way to assist guests, including accommodating early check-ins and providing support in unexpected situations. The overall attentive service contributes significantly to a positive guest experience. While the majority of feedback is positive, a few isolated reviews mentioned instances of unwelcoming or unresponsive staff, particularly regarding after-hours emergency contact or specific management interactions. However, the prevailing sentiment is one of appreciation for the staff's dedication to guest satisfaction.

Additional Information
The accommodation strongly emphasizes an eco-friendly ethos, which is appreciated by many guests, reflected in the use of sustainable toiletries and comprehensive recycling facilities, including bins for compostable waste. This commitment extends to ecological soaps and toilet paper, aligning with a responsible approach to tourism. Guests should be aware that communal areas, including the kitchen and lounge, have limited access hours between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM for cleaning, which can be inconvenient for those planning to stay on-site during the day and may require planning activities outside the property. The property is particularly popular with cyclists, offering specialized amenities like a dry room for gear. While generally peaceful, some guests noted the presence of midges in the mornings and evenings, which is typical for the region and might require personal repellent.