Dolgoch Hostel, mid-Wales (Elenydd Wilderness Hostels)

We didn't actually stay here but stopped off as we were lost. The gentlemen there, (who only volunteers there one week a year) was exceptionally accommodating and helpful. I would recommend going there. It's really idyllic, no interruptions from phones or technology just the great views of the mountains and the sounds of wildlife. Perfect place to reflect. Gorgeous

Liked: The welcome and helpfulness of the warden. So friendly and made the visit so much more enjoyable.

Disliked: Nothing

If you want an experience cut off without Internet and electricity except for a few solar bulbs, it's got ro be here. The way to Dolgoch Hostel is thrilling and exquisite. The route is called the devil's staircase for a reason. You can cook your own meal as there is a kitchen and cook your own BBQ in the open. The open space in-between the mountains helps you unwind and is surreal. It is very very cost effective and the warden is very friendly. Do bring your own raw materials to cook. They provide all the utensils and stove to cook.

Liked: It's easy to fall under the spell of this wonderful bunkhouse in the middle of the Cambrian Mountains.

If you're looking for a luxury stay, this really isn't the place for you. However, if a friendly welcome in the midst of some truly stunning scenery is your thing, you've found nirvana!

I cycled here on a fully loaded touring bike and I'll not lie, the road up from Tregaron is challenging to say the least... Similarly, the drag up to the top of the Devils Staircase is eye-poppingly steep. That all fades in the memory though at the thought of having been is such a wonderful location.

The accommodation is basic (it's a bunkhouse), but there's fresh water and a solar heater for the shower. The kitchen has plenty of pots, pans and cooking facilities so no worries there. There's a small area outside to camp. Outdoor fires and bbq's are strictly off-limits as this is forestry land.

A team of volunteer wardens look after the place and guests. A lovely chap called Richard was in residence when I stayed and welcomed me with a much needed offer of a cup of tea and seat in prime spot in front of the log burner.

Will definitely be returning!

Disliked: Nothing - it's just perfect as it is!

Really lovely place in a real natural environment. Mary and Colin were very hospital and caring. We had nice conversations, and they helped us where they could. We stayed there in our own tent⛺ Very silent and beautiful and peaceful. We could use the kitchen, and the toilet and showers were very clean and nice. Considering there is no electricity, and no internet a lot of people wouldnt get there but next year there will be internet. unfortunately😄 BEWARE the road is 'blocked' but DO NOT TAKE THE DETOUR! Just ignore it or you will have a detour of 20 miles over bad roads. When we left Colin advised us of another camping in Capel Curig where we are now. Also very nice

PS we probably took a wrong turn

Liked: Lovely peaceful place, well kept and clean. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, amazing, plenty to see and do. Plenty of soap in toilets and showers and kitchen. Nice kitchen with plenty of kitchen wears to use, and a good seating area inside with games and books and a seating area outside. There was a useful sink in our room too. The wardens were very kind and helpful, they welcomed us and gave us good advice about where to visit. Our children were all excited about staying in a hostel, even with no wifi and having to use torches at night. The stars at night were spectacular. We would recommend this place.

Disliked: The only inconvenient part of our stay was having no wifi or signal, but we still enjoyed ourselves anyway.

Liked: Location...remote. friendliness of staff.

Disliked: Midges.

The hospitality that I received from the Warden Derek during my visit was outstanding.

I had found myself in a dire situation when I was forced to drive into a soft verge to avoid sliding downhill on black ice; this resulted in my van being nose to tail across the road. Unable to reverse back onto the road, I spotted a Farmhouse in the distance, and with an hour of light left, I set off to get help.

There is no mobile coverage on any network in this area. This is an area that is as beautiful as unforgiving.

Unfortunately for me, the resident of the farmhouse was currently out, and trudging back to the van, I spotted another building across the valley.

I followed the path round to the Dolgoch Hostel. Fortuitously, Derek had decided to head up a day early to make sure the Hostel was ready to welcome a party of guests.

Derek and I spent the evening in front of the log fire talking about life, the universe, and everything. In the morning, with a little help from one of the local farmers, I was able to get back on the road.

Be well prepared when you venture into this wilderness.

Again, a big thank you to Derek and also our Welsh Farmers.