About Hostelling
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The first Youth Hostel in Scotland was opened in 1931, with this aim:
"To help all, but especially young people of limited means living and working in industrial and other areas, to know, use and appreciate the Scottish countryside and places of historic and cultural interest in Scotland, and to promote their health, recreation and education, particularly by providing simple hostel accommodation for them on their travels."
Today there are over 70 hostels in the SYHA, in locations which enable both Scottish and International travellers to enjoy to the full the diversity of Scotland's landscape and culture. The hostels vary from grandiose castles and hunting lodges to lowly croft cottages, situated in bustling cities, mountainous glens or by white sand beaches pounded by the Atlantic.
Accommodation is in dorm-style rooms of varying sizes - private family rooms are often available. Bed linen and duvets are included in the overnight price. All hostels have a fully equipped self-catering kitchen; some also provide meals. In all but the most remote and basic there's hot showers, and there is usually a drying room for your wet gear. Facilities vary from hostel to hostel, but they may also include ensuite rooms, internet access, a laundry, hostel store, games room and playstations.
The SYHA is a voluntary organisation, run by members for members. A year's membership costs £6 (or £2.50 for under 18's), obtainable from any hostel or National Office. This not only enables you to stay in any hostel in the SYHA and over 5,000 worldwide in the International YHF but also means you can attend district meetings and stand for election on your district committee. These committees send delegates to the National Council, a body which meets annually and decides upon major policy matters. From here members are elected to the National Executive, which runs the Association throughout the year. So you too can have a hand in the running of the SYHA.
If you are visiting Scotland from another country, you can obtain membership in your home country which will be valid internationally.
For further information on the SYHA, click on the SYHA logo above to view their website; information about Hostelling International can be found by clicking on the blue logo above.
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