The hostel has a friendly atmosphere and is clean. It's in a good location within Port Charlotte (although Port Charlotte itself isn't necessarily ideal for exploring Islay, as it isn't very central). The staff were very friendly and helpful. Dining/kitchen facilities are good -- there is plenty of space to sit down and eat, and there are enough fridges and... More

As hostels go, this one is clean and cheerful. Great kitchen and good space for storage. Showers are clean though maybe not plentiful enough. Beds comfy and clean. Only negative points are that the walls are paper thin between the rooms. Maybe not good if you have young kids with you/ staying next you! Also, while I appreciate that sometimes... More

After ten days travelling around Scotland in various youth hostels, Port Charlotte was by far the best! The building is right next to the bus stop and couldnt be closer to a beautiful wee beach with crystal clear water and nice sand. The lady running it was friendly, helpful and gave us excellent help with local bus times, restaurant recommendations... More

We went last year and the children liked it so much they begged to go back this year. The hostel has friendly staff who go out of their way to be helpful. Like most SYHA hostels you have to go out for a few hours each day so the place can be cleaned, and the kitchen is not open at... More

These 2 managers ticked all the right boxes. Need I say more. I marked the Hostel down slightly, as I wish there were more bathrooms / toilets; but I know they are resricted for space.

For a British youth hostel, I would rate Port Charlotte quite highly. We had a twin bunk room, which was clean and well-presented, with a sink so that you didn't have to clean your teeth in the communal bathroom! Although cold when we arrived (due to the window being wide open!), the heater soon had the room toasty. We were... More