Hostel Meridiano 71

We loved staying here. We had a six-bed room that was quiet and peaceful at night, with its own private bathroom. They also gave us clean sheets and towels, which is pretty rare in hostels. At 20,000 ARS per bed, the price seemed fair for this level of comfort. Everything is beautiful and tidy, and you can tell the owner really cares for the house and wants guests to respect it too. I’ve seen reviews calling the owner too strict, but I think people sometimes forget how important rules are to keeping a place clean, well looked after, and pleasant. Thanks to the volunteers and Haby, we hope to return.

I paid 12,000 ARS (approximately $13.70), without breakfast, and found places at the same price much closer to the center. For the price and location, Hostel Meridiano 71 didn’t measure up to other options in the city. The hostel is cute, but very small, and I left after just one night. I’d hoped to find somewhere quiet to read, write, and disconnect for a few days. Instead, everyone seemed gathered in the one common room, which has just two tables and a sofa. There were four or maybe more volunteers, friendly people, but it felt like too many for such cramped spaces. Music was on constantly, there were group dinners, and people kept being told where to find utensils. It wasn’t a relaxing atmosphere. The many signs and instructions around the hostel stressed me out and made me feel watched: reminders to close the door, rules about what to do and not do, fines, and instructions about where to put lighters. I think there are other ways to keep a place clean and organized. The dorm was small, and the bunk beds were extremely low, though the lockers were spacious and the heating was good. This is a very personal review, but when people choose to stay outside the city and look at the pictures, they may expect a different atmosphere from being crowded together in one room among signs full of instructions. Maybe this feedback can help improve things.

The rooms and all the facilities in the house were nice and tidy. The people were great, and the staff were really kind and helpful during our stay. It’s a beautiful place and well located if you’re planning to head up to a mountain shelter like “laguitos”. I’d definitely come back if I return to El Bolsón.

On my first solo trip, I spent a week here and couldn’t have picked a better place. It felt like a peaceful little haven from the world, and it was spotless. Haby and the volunteers were warm and attentive to every detail. I’ll definitely want to come back.