Barkly Backpackers

In the six months I’ve been here, I’ve seen that trust matters a lot, and everyone has been treated fairly. At a hostel full of people far from home, that’s a lovely thing. I’ve met some amazing people here, and a few gross sloths too. It feels like a big house share with people from all kinds of backgrounds, with friendly staff who come and go from this small unit. I’ve stayed in six Melbourne hostels over the past two years, and none comes close to what you get here. It’s relaxed and flexible: join in socially or slip away for some quiet in your room. The 24-hour kitchen, common area, and rooftop make it easy to stay in if you want. It’s good value all year, and there are no annoying bar promotions. Summerhouse, Nomads, and plenty of St Kilda bars are across the road or nearby, so this is a nice place to get away from the noise and chill. I’d recommend it to anyone.

Christmas was fantastic, and the manager and staff put a lot of effort into dinner. During summer there were loads of travellers to spend time with, and we went camping, hiking, clubbing, and to bars. The rooftop brought together people from all over the world for great conversations. We had rooftop BBQs, cocktails, pool parties, music and drinking games, or headed to the beach to swim and play volleyball. Movie nights and cooking together were always fun.

I’ve been here a month and I’m not leaving. It really feels like home, with a big family vibe. We gather around the huge kitchen table, relax on the large couches, watch movies, play ping pong, and have good music on throughout the day. When it’s sunny, there are BBQs on the rooftop. Matt, the owner, is around and happy to help with questions. The rooms and bathrooms are cleaned daily, the sheets get changed every three days, and my bed is really comfortable. Best hostel in Melbourne. I recommend it 100%.

The owner was incredibly helpful. He opened reception early for us and had breakfast ready ahead of our ferry to Tassie. Free laundry powder was a nice extra. We stayed here before and after Tasmania and found the hostel really clean, friendly, and spacious. The Wi-Fi didn’t work very well in the girls’ room, but it was great in the living room. People there kept offering us cakes and sweets, so that wasn’t much of a problem.