Grelo Hostel

Santiago, the host, was warm and always happy to answer questions. Grelo Hostel also includes lots of useful extras for free: light blankets, large bath towels, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, late-night snacks, and breakfast. There’s good space between the beds, and each one has a lockable cabinet. The hostel is right in the old town, with supermarkets such as Gadis, Eroski, and Carrefour nearby, which makes day-to-day errands convenient. Several historic Catholic churches are within a 10-minute walk, including the Cathedral, the Holy Trinity Church, St. Francis, and the Dominican Church. I highly recommend staying here when visiting Ourense.

The owner is very thoughtful, and it was a good experience overall. Since many guests are walking the Camino and leave early, breakfast is set out the night before. It’s a small breakfast, but a nice touch, as almost none of the hostels in Galicia include one. The showers are great, with soap and conditioner, and towels are provided. The shared rooms are large, though the beds squeak when people move, which can be awkward when others are getting up early for the Camino. The common room is big but has no windows, so it feels a little dark. I only missed having a stove for cooking something quick.

I’d stay here again. It’s good value, the facilities are very clean, and there are lockers in the dorms. The rooms are quite large, though I can imagine they get noisy when the hostel is busy. Breakfast is just toast and jam, but that’s fine for the price. You can park on the street right outside, and the place is fairly close to the cathedral and other sights.

Santiago, the owner, is really friendly. The place is neat and clean, and breakfast comes with the stay. If we’re in Ourense again, we’ll stay here. 10 out of 10.