STF Vandrarhem Hagaby Lantgården - Hostel

The couple who run this hostel were the best part of our stay, always friendly and ready to help. It's set among a lovely group of buildings on an old farm, away from the crowds, but easy to get to by bus or car from the main road. My room was clean and fresh, and the building also had a big kitchen and shared dining room. I was backpacking around Öland, so having a sauna and somewhere to wash my walking clothes was much appreciated. I'd happily stay again.

It's a peaceful spot in the countryside, great for listening to and watching birds. The beaches and walking paths are nearby, and you can rent a bike at the hostel. Stefan, the host, is charming, intelligent and very welcoming. I really enjoyed my time there.

The hosts are a lovely older couple who know their way around the place and are there to help when you need them. Which building you're in makes a big difference. The stuga, or summer houses, are quiet enough for a good night's rest, but get cold because there's no heating. In the hostel building, you'll hear people in the corridor, feel the walls shake when they stomp, and hear doors slam loudly. A lot of things cost extra: bedsheets, towels, breakfast, checkout cleaning, laundry, bikes and parking. The sauna is free, though. For what we paid, it felt a bit much. All the bathrooms and showers are shared, the location isn't especially attractive, good beaches and restaurants or pubs are far away, and the bus from Kalmar takes almost two hours. We could also smell cow manure 24/7. 😂😂😂 Getting around without a bike or car isn't easy. The only connection is a main road with no footpath, so walking isn't practical.

It's a bit removed from Öland's popular beaches, but this place is a gem in its own right. The host was lovely and everything was clean and working well. You can rent a bike to explore the island, and there's a lighthouse about ten minutes away by bike that's worth seeing.