The only problem I have to point out is the shower on our Family Room. It only had two settings, super-hot or "Hell on Earth". Other than that, an incredible Hostel.

We stayed here in a private room while on a tour. The room we had contained a twin bed and a bunkbed. It also had a sink which is convenient. The staff were helpful with any requests, but the wifi did not work in our room (even though it costs money) and we ended up using their computers downstairs which was annoying. It is a short walk to the main drag in Inverness and I would definitely stay here again!

As a regular customer for 3 years I can say the customer care/service has collapsed to the point where I'll no longer use this hostel. I can only assume this degeneration is linked to the loss of the previous manager. Even when the hostel is practically empty, staff seem to take delight in piling customers into the same room ensuring a poor nights rest. Similarly, if there is a late customer arrival (between 11pm & 2am) no effort is made to minimise disturbance to guests already asleep, with the late guest put in the same room, bearing in mind the hostel is virtually empty. With the dismal staff attitude towards customer comfort, I strongly advise hostellers to avoid this establishment. For the relatively small additional cost I would recommend bed & breakfast accommodation.

The hostel is described as the SYHA's 'flagship' by one leading travel book. I would hate to see the others. We only stayed a night, so did not need to make use of the kitchens or lounge space; but the hostel failed to provide the most basic requirement - a restful night's sleep. The bunk beds in our twin room were very poorly constructed and creaked and cracked at even the smallest movement. This meant we constantly woke ourselves and each other up. The beds in the other rooms were similar, since we were woken when their occupants moved too. The matresses were lumpy and uncomfortable, and the pillows were lumpy and poorly-filled. We got out as soon as we could. Not worth the money and not worthy of 5 stars. Put me off hostels and it embarrasses me that travellers from other countries might stay here.