We have stayed at the Backpackers twice now and are about to book for a third time.We have been lucky enough to have fantastic weather for both of our Easter trips, which has meant that we could walk and climb and cycle, and sit outside to enjoy the sunshine. Mark's bikes are wonderful - we bought an ex rental one for our son to take home and its brilliant to just set off from the hostel along the flattish paths beside the loch and through the forests. Shame the teashop at the end of the ride wasn't open (Tuesday) and the hotel only served coach trips but never mind! Janet is a mine of local information and the Woodland Trust estate near by was great to explore. The cafe/fishing lodge by Loch Venachar was a fab new addition on our second trip, great cakes. We have had the family room with self catering facilities on both occasions which had everything we needed. The communal kitchen and dining room though have everything you could want. Callendar is a short bike ride away with lovely cafes and a leisure centre we have never had to use. The Backpackers is wonderfully clean and very friendly, with lovely pets around too. There are even two pianos! On our second trip we took my brother and his four children and they loved it too,.