Jugendgaestehaus Bad Ischl

We had a great night with the windows open. The rooms were quiet and close to the river, and the hostel is right in the city center, near the train station. The staff were very friendly, and the chef was nice and tried to make everyone happy. He even cooked special food for the kids. The vegetarian food was tasty, especially for a youth hostel. Rooms and beds were clean, though some mattresses felt old and no longer supportive, so a few could use replacing. Good value for the price!

I called again and again, even during their stated working hours, and nobody picked up. Their emergency phone seems to be just for show. There wasn't anyone at the front desk during those supposed working hours either!

The location is good, and I liked the breakfast. The newer rooms are more spacious, and having two keys per room is very practical. The older rooms felt cramped, with a tiny bathroom and poor ventilation. They're OK if all you need is a place to sleep. Staff are only available at certain times, which can be awkward if you're on a schedule. Some receptionists were helpful, while others were quite rude.

Breakfast was great, with lots of variety, and the beds were cosy and comfortable. The hostel is an easy walk from the train and bus station, about 500 mtrs away. Still, the room had some problems: it wasn't well maintained, the door had no latch, and water leaked from the bathroom into the living room while bathing. There were only two electric points, both inconveniently placed, and even the lamps by the beds weren't comfortable. A nice stay overall, apart from the room issues.