Hanmer Haven

It’s a small hostel, so it felt more like an Air B&B, which was a treat. The host/manager was awesome, super clean, friendly, and helpful with anything we wanted to know. The beds were comfortable, and the many windows let in lots of light. There’s a quaint little fireplace, a lounge, and a good-sized kitchen. Out back there’s a hammock, BBQ area, and lush greenery. Go outside at night if you can, the stars from the backyard are stunning without light pollution. Would recommend it to anyone.

I was pleasantly surprised. The place is warm and clean, and the showers are clean with continuous gas hot water. Staff are friendly and helpful. There’s even an old fender acoustic guitar guests can use. It’s very family-friendly, so don’t hesitate to bring children if rooms are available.

The kitchen was large and well kept, with indoor and outdoor dining, and it was handy having a washing machine and tumble dryer. Mountain bikes are available to hire. It’s within walking distance of the hot pools and restaurants. This is a nice backpackers, with good-sized rooms and bathrooms across the hall.

We were glad to leave first thing in the morning. Compared with our stay 18 months earlier, Jack in the Green has gone downhill badly. There was a bottle of ‘lube’ under the bed, the room smelled heavily of air freshener, the wifi was weak and patchy, and there was very little bathroom linen. The liquid soap was watered down so much it hardly seemed like soap. The communal kitchen facilities were no longer available, and the bed was uncomfortable. We felt we’d paid too much for what we got, especially given our previous experience, and wouldn’t recommend staying here. We understand times are tough for the hospitality industry, but it feels like Jack in the Green has made too many cuts and gone from being a lovely place to stay to something downright distasteful.