GARDENSTONE HOSTEL
We were recommended this hostel by a group of travellers we met in Paraty so thought we would give it a go.
Facilities
Gardenstone Hostel has what can only be described as a jungle in its back garden. There is a managary of flowers and trees, which makes it quite unique from other hostels we have stayed in. There is a pool, although only filtered once a day so leaves from the jungle do clutter it slightly. It is still nice to relax around after a long day. Or if that does not take your fancy, give the hammocks a go. There is an outside kitchen which you are free to use at any time. On some reviews on Hostelworld, there were complaints of the hostel cats jumping up in surfaces etc but in the time we stayed here, we did not experience this. There is no printer here, however if you go across the street to the hotel you can print a sheet out for AR$10.
On hostelworld, it states that the hostel has a 24 hour reception. However, one night we found ourselves locked out of the hostel. Thus, resulting in us having to scale the gate to get to our dorm. Not ideal, especially after a few wines. So I would just advise that when you leave the hostel you double check when it will be open till.
The wifi here is sometimes great and sometimes awful. It really does dip in and out. Plus, whilst we were there, there were two power cuts although this lasted for ten minutes maximum.
Breakfast was good although lacking the fruit I had become accustomed to in Brazil, with only oranges being offered. There was also a selection of breads, cake, spreads and cornflakes but most importantly scrambled egg! I warn you to get there early if you want eggs or cake as it goes quite quickly.
Showers/Toilets
The ensuite we had was okay. It was cleaned daily but due to the air freshener used, it never quite smelt right. The bathroom itself is in need of a refurb and the shower would often run cold. We realised that this was because whilst on the shower would trip its main switch. Probably not the safest shower but it did the job.
Staff
The staff are great here. The older man who runs the hostel is probably the best thing about the place. He is kind, helpful and an attentive host. Nothing is too much for him, whether this be directions, recommendations or help within the hostel.
Value for Money
We paid just under £10 per night here. For what were provided it was not necessarily worth that much. The place definitely needs a bit of a spruce!
Dorms
The room were nice, although not overly big, like the bathrooms, could do with a refurb. The beds were comfortable although pack bug spray because you are going to need it. There were plugs dotted around although not as many as was needed. Lockers are provided, not large enough to fit your back pack in but a reasonable size nonetheless.
The dorms are cleaned I want to say every other day, all I know was that it happened more than once over our stay but not daily.
Location
The hostel was a five minute walk from the bus station and not far from the Argentinian side of her falls. There is a bank and supermarket close by and restaurants and bars in walking distance. In all honesty, you will not need to use public transport here unless going to and from the falls or travelling away from the town.
OVERALL
I want to give the hostel a glowing review however I would say there is probably nicer hostels than Gardenstone. Despite enjoying my time here, I cannot ignore that the hostel just needs a bit of tlc.
Imogen xoxo
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