Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
land.co.uk
)
, available from tourist offices, lists over 100 hostels in Scotland, mostly in the
north.
SCOTTISH YOUTH HOSTEL ASSOCIATION
The
SYHA
(SYHA; 0845-293 7373;
www.syha.org.uk
)
has a network of decent, reas-
onably priced hostels and produces a free booklet available from SYHA hostels and tour-
ist offices. There are more than 60 to choose from around the country, ranging from basic
walkers' digs to mansions and castles. You've got to be an HI member to stay, but non-
members can pay a £2 supplement per night that goes towards the £10 membership fee.
Prices vary according to the month, but average around £16 to £18 per adult in high sea-
son.
Most SYHA hostels close from mid-October to early March but can be rented out by
groups.
Hotels
There are some wonderfully luxurious places, including rustic country-house hotels in
fabulous settings, and castles complete with crenellated battlements, grand staircases and
the obligatory rows of stag heads. Expect all the perks at these places, often including a
gym, a sauna, a pool and first-class service. Even if you're on a budget, it's worth splash-
ing out for a night at one of the classic Highland hotels, which are the hubs of the local
community, including the local pub and restaurant.
In the cities, dullish chain options dominate the midrange category, though there are
some quirkier options to be had in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Increasingly, hotels use an airline-style pricing system, so it's worth booking well ahead
to take advantage of the cheapest rates. The website
www.moneysavingexpert.com
has a
good guide to finding cheap hotel rooms.
Try these online discount sites:
University Accommodation
Many Scottish universities offer their student accommodation to visitors during the holi-
days. Most rooms are comfy, functional single bedrooms, some with shared bathroom, but
there are also twin and family units, self-contained flats and shared houses. Full-board,
