Why it exists

Loch Ossian Youth Hostel is SYHA’s leading eco-hostel.  One of the Association’s oldest hostels, it was refurbished in 2003 using the latest eco-technologies.  These include the use of wind and solar power, grey water and dry toilet systems, and even bat-friendly paint!  Unusually for an SYHA hostel, sheets are not provided, and guests are asked to take their rubbish away with them.

Where it is

The hostel is set in a remote, rural location high on Rannoch Moor.  The hostel can only be reached on foot.  The train station (on the Glasgow to Fort William line) is one mile away.

The area is perfect walking country, with plenty of low level walks as well as Munros and Corbetts (Scotland’s higher mountains).  The area is also a haven for wildlife.

The hostel is in a beautiful position in a country estate which is used for deer stalking among other pursuits.  The estate owns some very high quality, expensive holiday cottages at the other end of the tourism cost scale.

Who it is for

The hostel is used primarily by walkers, but also those who want to “get away from it all” and benefit from the hostel’s beautiful and remote location.  Loch Ossian hostel is also of interest to travellers who are interested in eco-tourism, or who are looking for something a bit different.

The hostel is less well suited to families, as children are less understanding or appreciative of the restrictions that go along with the eco-technology, such as “unusual” toilets.

What is it

Loch Ossian is a 20-bed hostel, with one female and one male dormitory.  There are no showers, but hot and cold running water is available.  The building is heated by radiators from the fire.  There are no laundry facilities, microwave, fridges or freezers.

How it operates

The hostel is open from March to October and is available for exclusive use under the RentaHostel scheme during the closed season.  It is operated by a single member of staff, the manager, who is resident in the hostel throughout the year.

Business Results

Results for the financial year 2005-2006

Number of guests (overnights)                                                 2,937
Occupancy level                                                                          65%
Turnover (€)                                                                            43,759