Where Climbers Rest: The 13 Best Climbing Hostels Around the World

For the dedicated climber, accommodations are more than just a place to sleep—they’re a crucial part of the experience. The right hostel can connect you with partners, provide local beta, and create an environment where climbing stories flow as freely as the post-send beers.

From Patagonia’s Hem Herhu to Norway’s Old School Hostel, these climber-focused havens share a common thread: Creating authentic community spaces where climbers can connect while accessing world-class routes. Many are even owned by climbers. Each property reflects the passion of the climbers who visit, whether through specialized amenities like crashpad rentals and hangboards, strategic locations close to classic routes, or invaluable local knowledge on climbing areas.

Here’s our list of the world’s 13 best climbing hostels, each offering unique amenities that cater specifically to climbers. A couple of these properties aren’t technically hostels, but have fostered the same communal feel, climber-friendly amenities, and affordable rates that make us love hostels.

Note that all rates for rooms or services mentioned in this story are in US Dollars. Some rates have been converted to USD, so prices quoted in this story may vary based on currency exchange rates. 

Author Paulina Peña on her favorite climbing hostels on this list

1. Green Climbers Home, Thakhek, Laos

At the base of Pha Tam Kam in Laos, Green Climbers Home offers access to 600-plus limestone sport routes ranging from 5.5 to 5.14 (4-8c). Climbing styles vary from slabs to tufas. The area’s signature gigantic roof hosts routes from 5.10+ (6b+) to 5.13b (8a+), between 12-40m in length.

Green Climbers Home is a climber-owned operation established by pioneers Tanja and Ulrich Weidner, who began developing the area around 2002. International climbers have progressively bolted routes with support from Green Discovery Laos.

The property offers various accommodation options across two interconnected campsites established in 2012 and 2015. Options include two-person ($20-30) and three-person ($25-35) bungalows with either private or shared bathrooms; six-bed and eight-bed dorms ($11-12); and tent options from one-person dome tents ($6-6.25) to three-person palace tents ($14.50-18.75) with mats and bedding provided. On-site restaurants “Kneebar” and “Layback Bar” serve meals at reasonable prices, while shared bathrooms feature hot showers.

Green Climbers Home features two complementary camps with distinct atmospheres. Camp 1 offers an off-grid experience with 180 nearby routes and swimming at Xiang Liap cave. Camp 2 provides internet access and proximity to the famous roof crag. Both camps accommodate up to 60 guests and include slacklines, simple yet comfortable bungalows, and restaurant areas that foster a vibrant international climbing community against Laos’ spectacular karst backdrop.

Green Climbers Home Climbing Amenities:

• Comprehensive gear rental service including ropes (60m-80m, $7-8.30/day), harnesses ($4.10/day), quickdraws (sets from $2.50-5/day), belay devices, helmets, climbing shoes ($5.50/day), and complete equipment packages ($35/day or $235/week)
• Climbing courses for all levels including “Just Climb” beginner courses (1-6 persons, $25-96 depending on group size and duration), Top Rope & Belay Basics courses, and Leading courses (1-4 persons)
• Bouldering area with 73 problems ranging from FB 4c to FB 7b, with potential for establishing new problems
• Printed Laos Rock Climbing Guidebook and downloadable 17-page Thakhek Boulder Guidebook PDF
• Map showing all climbing crags and boulder spots in the area

2. Old School Hostel, Rjukan, Norway

Nestled in the Telemark region of Norway’s picturesque Vestfjord valley, with the charming town of Rjukan as its centerpiece, lies a true ice climber’s haven. Old School Hostel in Rjukan offers ice climbers an authentic haven. Originally built as a children’s school in 1926, dedicated climber and outdoor educator Jakob Fink purchased the building in 2005. Fink also serves on the local alpine rescue team because he “feels responsible for making it safe to ice climb in Rjukan,” where numerous streams and waterfalls create countless accessible ice routes in winter.

This climber-owned hostel provides a myriad of amenities, including ice climbing courses for all skill levels, specialized facilities with a gear drying room, a recovery sauna, and good heating throughout. Accommodations are reasonably priced with dormitory-style rooms similar to mountain huts, but conveniently located in the valley. The fully equipped kitchen connects to the living room, creating a natural social hub where climbers from around the world gather after a day on the ice.

Despite its “continuously upgraded, but not finished still” status, this evolving, lived-in establishment has become a must-stay destination for serious ice climbers through word-of-mouth alone. Booking is charmingly old-school—no web-based system, just email, text, message, or even the occasional phone call. This perfectly matches the hostel’s relaxed, flexible approach that embodies the owner’s simple desire: “I wanted to live in a place with good ice climbing and good skiing, and Rjukan has that.”

Old School Hostel Climbing Amenities:

• Ice climbing courses at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels (prices available upon request)
• Specialized facilities for ice climbers, including an excellent drying room
• Sauna for post-climbing recovery
• Knowledgeable staff with intimate knowledge of local conditions

3. Climber’s Home, Red River Gorge, Kentucky

Near the Red River Gorge, Climber’s Home sits just 20 minutes from Miguel’s Pizza with easy access to thousands of routes hidden throughout Eastern Kentucky’s forests. The area’s Corbin Sandstone has weathered into endless overhanging terrain, steep cliffs, and caves with a high concentration of quality routes from 5.10 to 5.13. Founder, Sunny Yang—an American paraclimber—created this hostel to serve as “a home for all climbers who come to the Red River Gorge to climb!” Guests describe Sunny as an extremely accommodating host who provides valuable advice to his fellow climbers.

The hostel features private rooms (at super affordable prices) with comfortable beds, full kitchen access, bathroom facilities, free WiFi throughout, and an on-site climbing gym. It offers an affordable alternative to camping during inclement weather, while maintaining comfort and convenience.

While spring and fall offer the most reliable conditions in the Red, the area’s abundant overhangs stay relatively dry year-round. The hostel functions as both a practical basecamp and community hub, where visitors share experiences, exchange beta, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere characteristic of the local climbing scene.

Climber’s Home Climbing Amenities:

• On-site climbing gym with training equipment (hangboards, rings, rope climb, pull-up bar)
• Expert advice on local climbing conditions and recommended gear
• Proximity to Miguel’s Pizza, and its well-stocked gear shop for climbing needs

4. Hem Herhu, El Chaltén, Argentina

In the heart of El Chaltén, Hem Herhu (“Rock House”) provides immediate access to exceptional climbing. You’ll find sport routes 50m away, the famous “Vaca Muerta” boulder 150m away, and trails to Cerro Torre and Fitz Roy within 100m. Founded by Hugo Acosta Castilla, who views mountaineering as “purely spiritual,” this hostel serves as the perfect base for accessing Patagonia’s legendary terrain.

Accommodation options include affordable dorm beds with mountain views from approximately $32/night ($128 for four nights) and private bungalows with private kitchens and bathrooms. All guests enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, free luggage storage, and WiFi.

The wooden structure of Hem Herhu feels like an extension of the mountains themselves, with walls adorned by hand-drawn topos of local routes. During climbing season, the hostel exclusively hosts climbers. As Castilla puts it, “the atmosphere is like that of a large international mountaineering family, always with good feelings and mutual support.”

But at Hem Herhu, the real magic happens in the evenings, when climbers gather around the wood stove, sharing invaluable information about weather windows and tactics for navigating Patagonia’s notoriously fickle conditions. Beyond just accommodation, the hostel’s commitment to sustainability and deep connection to the local community adds an authenticity that climbers love and respect.

Hem Hermu’s Climbing Amenities:

• Free crashpads for guests
• Daily weather forecasts specific to climbing areas
• Guidebook library with rare local publications
• Secure gear storage

5. The Climbing House, Tenerife, Spain

Located in the village of Villa de Arico—the heart of climbing in Tenerife—The Climbing House offers access to incredibly diverse climbing opportunities. Just 10 minutes away from this hostel lies an amazing bouldering area with over 200 problems. Beyond, the island of Tenerife features sport climbing, trad climbing, cracks, overhangs, slabs, and even deep water soloing across three distinct areas. Spectacular trad climbing can also be found in Teide National Park, home to the 3700m volcano El Teide. This convenient basecamp has everything you need within walking distance—restaurants, bars, supermarkets, and shops. Plus, the beach is only 7km away, perfect for a refreshing dive after a day on the rock.

This climber’s paradise was created by Elena Martinez and Erik Baquero as “a dream come true” and “a house for people like us, people who are crazy about climbing and love the outdoors.” Their passion is evident in every detail, as they personally designed everything in the house. They describe it as “a house by climbers for climbers.”

The Climbing House offers various accommodation options, including private rooms in the garden ($28/night), twin private rooms ($28/night), a six-bed dorm ($24/night), a four-bed dorm ($26/night), and a private house for up to four people ($247/night).

Dedicated climbers will find everything they need: a garden bouldering wall, training boards, a roof terrace, a bar with affordable food, gear-sized lockers, free WiFi, and kitchen access. The hostel fosters a friendly community where climbers exchange beta and enjoy garden BBQs or rooftop sunsets. Tenerife’s year-round moderate climate and diverse routes (5.5 to 5.14/4 to 8c) accommodate all ability levels, from beginners to experts.

The Climbing House Climbing Amenities:

• El Ocho Climbing School with instruction available
• Climbing gear rental
• Fully stocked climbing shop
• Bouldering wall in the garden and training boards throughout the house

6. Rancho El Sendero, El Potrero Chico, Mexico

In the neighborhood of Hidalgo, Nuevo León, Mexico, Rancho El Sendero sits just a 10-minute walk from Potrero Chico, one of the world’s premier climbing destinations. This prime location offers climbers easy access to diverse sport climbing on stunning limestone walls, with single and multi-pitch routes ranging from beginner to expert grades. The property is run by a local family originally from Hidalgo who have spent years embracing the climbing community. They’ve opened their home with warmth and hospitality to create a peaceful oasis that balances climbing-focused amenities with an authentic Mexican atmosphere.

Rancho El Sendero offers diverse accommodations for all budgets: spacious dorms with privacy features and amenities, various private rooms with AC and mountain views, ranging from $17 to $70, and a camping area with access to a firepit, kitchen, and pool facilities. On-site perks include “La Cumbre” bar, a full-service restaurant, a community kitchen, fast WiFi, and a pool and jacuzzi with Potrero Chico views. The hostel hosts special “Sendero Fridays” buffets ($12), offers wellness services, and provides 24-hour hot showers for campers. The popular Friday night buffets foster a social environment for exchanging stories and beta.

Rancho El Sendero stands out for balancing excellent climbing access, diverse accommodation options, and authentic Mexican hospitality from the local family owners.

Rancho El Sendero Climbing Amenities:

• Climbing wall for practice and training
• Information center with details about famous climbing routes
• “EPC CLIMBING” guidebook available for purchase with route descriptions, difficulty levels, and safety tips
• Connections to experienced local guides familiar with routes and conditions
• Secure gear storage

7. Flying Goat, Geyikbayiri, Turkey

In Geyikbayiri, Turkey, Flying Goat Climbing Hostel sits just a five-minute walk from the iconic Sarkit climbing sector and within easy walking distance to all 1,000-plus limestone sport climbing routes in the area. This premier Mediterranean climbing destination offers everything from technical slabs to massive tufa caves, with grades ranging from beginner-friendly 5.6 (4c) to project-worthy 5.14+ (9a). The hostel is lovingly operated by climbers Mümin and Fleur Derks, who have created the space for climbers by climbers. The Fleurs are always trying to find new ways to make the camp better, striving to accommodate every climber who steps through the door.

Flying Goat accommodates all budgets with wooden bungalows ($30-60), climbers’ dorms ($16), rental tents ($16-22), and camping ($13). The thoughtfully designed facilities include a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy lounge with fireplace, yoga mats, a fingerboard training area, an outdoor pool, books and games, a mountain view sundeck terrace, hot showers, laundry service, and fresh bread delivery each morning.

Flying Goat perfectly balances its focus on climbing with relaxation in its stunning natural setting. The compact layout naturally fosters social connections through Wednesday movie nights and Sunday Turkish breakfast outings. Despite feeling like “rural Turkey, surrounded by mountains and forest,” it’s remarkably accessible—just 45 minutes from Antalya Airport. The “easy to get here, hard to leave” motto captures this special place perfectly.

Flying Goat Climbing Amenities:

• Climbing courses and guiding for all levels
• Rest day activities including Turkish breakfast outings
• Detailed information about local climbing sectors
• Cold plunge sessions on Tuesdays for recovery
• Close proximity to professional physiotherapists

8. Fontaineblhostel, Fontainebleau, France

In Fontainebleau—bouldering’s global mecca with over 40,000 registered problems— Fontaineblhostel provides direct access to Font’s legendary sandstone. Major areas like Elephant and Dame Jouanne are within walking distance, Buthiers is accessible by bus, and most other areas are just a 15-minute drive away. The hostel was founded in 2014 by Patrick Sobottka, a 64-year-old local who has lived in the area since 1997 and deeply loves the forest. His daughter, an occasional climber herself, has taken over management of this climber-focused accommodation.

Amenities specifically for boulderers include crashpad rentals ($11/day), climbing supplies for sale, free loaner shoes, and a common room hangboard. Accommodations range from dorms ($38 first night, $30 after) to private rooms and camping, with facilities like an equipped kitchen, WiFi, laundry, parking, and 24/7 key card access. Heated common areas are available year-round with significant discounts for families with kids.

Fontaineblhostel fosters an environment that naturally encourages interaction between climbers. While Patrick doesn’t formally organize partner finding, he facilitates connections among guests. With a location that’s a 35-minute walk from major bouldering areas, this hostel is particularly appealing for car-free travelers. As one of the highest-rated hostels on Hostelworld, it combines practical amenities with the invaluable local knowledge that comes from a host with decades of Font experience.

Fontaineblhostel Climbing Amenities:

• Crashpad rentals
• Chalk, guidebooks, tape, and maps for sale
• Free lending of old climbing shoes
• Hangboard in the common room
• Reference guidebooks available
• Connections to fully licensed and insured guides upon request

9. Big Mountain Hostel, Huaraz, Peru

Located in central Huaraz just 100 meters from major bus stations, Big Mountain Hostel offers a strategic high-altitude basecamp (3,052m) for exploring the Cordillera Blanca’s spectacular climbing opportunities. Founded in 2015 by two experienced Peruvian mountain guides, the hostel evolved from a temporary accommodation for their travel clients into a permanent venture serving international adventurers with clean, safe, and accessible lodging.

The property features comfortable dormitories with private bed spaces and bathrooms, and personal storage, plus private rooms in various configurations, all at affordable prices. Amenities include 24-hour reception, free breakfast on weekdays, a shared kitchen, secure storage, and WiFi. The rooftop terrace bar offers stunning mountain views and serves as the hostel’s social center.

Big Mountain Hostel creates a warm atmosphere with a staff that moonlight as pro guides, ready to offer advice and support to guests. The rooftop offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. You can enjoy a local beer or cocktail at the rooftop bar and leaf through some books or meet other travellers. And an indoor climbing wall serves as a place to practice as well as a beta exchange hub for routes and conditions. Award-winning for its quality service, this hostel prioritizes security with its safe location, surveillance, and safety equipment, while providing convenient access to local transportation, dining, and markets. It’s an ideal basecamp for Andean adventures.

Big Mountain Hostel Climbing Amenities:

• Professional guides on staff to advise and support adventure planning
• Trekking and climbing equipment rental
• Free hiking tours to Pukventana viewpoint
• Tourist information and assistance for mountaineering expeditions
• Private transport to climbing areas
• Climbing book exchange
• Indoor climbing wall  

10. Mt. Williamson Motel, Bishop, California, USA

Right off Highway 395 in Independence, California, the Mt. Williamson Motel provides an ideal gateway to the Eastern Sierra’s climbing treasures. Midway between Death Valley and Yosemite, it sits at the base of California’s second-highest peak. Kearsarge Pass and Whitney Portal Trailhead are nearby, too. The area offers sport climbing at Alabama Hills and endless alpine opportunities. Purchased in 2019 by Douglas and Lauralyn Hundley after they hiked the John Muir Trail, the motel is now partly operated by their child, an avid climber who enjoys alpine, trad, sport, and bouldering.

While not technically a hostel, the Mt. Williamson Motel does offer the communal vibe normally found at hostels. Accommodations are also pretty affordable; each cabin features a full bathroom, a refrigerator, a kettle, a microwave, and free WiFi and goes for around $145 a night. During the spring and summer seasons (May 15-October 15), guests enjoy a complimentary fresh, hot breakfast daily, providing perfect fuel for mountain adventures.

True to its motto—”enter as a guest, leave as family”—this family-owned and operated motel offers a private, cozy atmosphere while maintaining the community feel climbers appreciate. Come summer, visiting hikers come here to relax and swap stories, creating an authentic mountain community vibe. The owners’ four decades of Sierra exploration translate into invaluable knowledge shared freely with guests, while panoramic Eastern Sierra views and genuine hospitality make this a must-visit basecamp for anyone climbing in the region.

Mt. Williamson Motel Climbing Amenities:

• Knowledgeable climbing staff happy to chat about routes and provide recommendations
• Information on finding local climbing guides
• Transportation to trailheads, including rides to and from Onion Valley for guests
• Local climbing and hiking expertise
• Comprehensive maps and information on permits and conditions

11. Climbers Village, Kalymnos, Greece

Nestled in the heart of Kalymnos, Greece’s rock climbing mecca Climbers Village balances peaceful surroundings with convenient access to both world-class climbing and the shops, restaurants, and bars of Massouri. Since 2023, the property has been run by Filippo Mascaretti, an Italian architect, who approaches climbing as “a way to feel part of the environment”.

While more of an Airbnb-style property, Climbers Village does have the friendly feel that you’d find at a hostel. Accommodation options include studios with a kitchen and bedroom ($72/night), suites with separate bedroom and living areas  ($99/night), and family apartments with two bedrooms and large living spaces ($132/night). All units feature air conditioning, private bathrooms, free WiFi, and terraces or balconies with sunset views over Telendos Island. Guests enjoy laundry service, mosquito nets, stable WiFi for remote work, private parking, and taxi service to/from the local climbing crags.

Climbers Village serves as an international meeting point designed in traditional Greek style. The property features a large garden with relaxation corners and a rooftop that’s great for a post-climb yoga session. Operating from April to November with special rates for extended stays, this hostel provides the perfect basecamp for experiencing everything Kalymnos offers—from world-class climbing routes to beautiful beaches, hiking, and snorkeling.

Climbers Village Climbing Amenities:

• Prime location with easy access to climbing areas
• Staff knowledge of local routes and climbing conditions
• Meeting point for climbers from around the world
• Stable WiFi for digital nomad climbers

12. Tinidee Hideaway, Tonsai Beach, Thailand

Accessible only by boat, in Tonsai Bay between Ao Nang and Railay Beach in Krabi, Thailand, Tinidee Hideaway provides immediate access to world-class sport climbing and deep water soloing. Surrounded by palm trees and dramatic limestone cliffs, the area boasts over 700 routes from 5.8 (5b) to 5.14 (8c+), all with the Andaman Sea as backdrop. This established climbing destination features private villas, a Thai longhouse with hostel-style dorms, and resort amenities designed specifically for climbers and adventurers.

Accommodation options include family rooms sleeping up to six people, comfortable one-bedroom beachfront villas with private balconies, villas with Andaman Sea vistas, and balcony villas in a tropical garden, ranging from $100 to $150. While more expensive than some of the other hostels in the area, all of these rooms feature air conditioning, a shower, a refrigerator, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The resort offers a saltwater pool, Café Nidee with Thai and international cuisine, a longhouse lounge for socializing, and activities like kayaking and slacklining.

Tinidee perfectly balances resort comfort with an authentic climbing atmosphere. Flexible accommodation options suit various budgets, while guests enjoy alternating between climbing days and relaxation. The longhouse lounge serves as the social hub where climbers share beta and stories, preserving the community spirit that makes Tonsai special for climbers worldwide.

Tinidee Hideaway Climbing Amenities:

• Beginner climbing lessons offered at Basecamp Tonsai, located next to the resort
• Access to world-class climbing areas all within walking distance
• Information and connections to local guides for beginners
• Convenient location for daily climbing access
• Post-climbing relaxation facilities, including a beachfront pool

13. Onsight Hostel, Margalef, Spain

Perfectly situated in Margalef, Spain, one of Europe’s premier sport climbing destinations, Onsight Hostel places climbers just minutes from numerous climbing areas. This strategic location allows guests to easily walk to several crags or take short drives to access the full range of climbing areas, which feature thousands of pocketed conglomerate routes. The hostel was established by passionate climbers, including Jan Casas i Sala, a qualified guide, whose life has always been deeply intertwined with rock climbing. His purpose is to offer visitors climbing-related activities that provide “time full of magic.”

Accommodation options include affordable dorm beds from $22/night and private rooms from $55/night. The property features a communal kitchen, outdoor terraces with views of the surrounding cliffs, climbing-focused common areas, and dedicated gear storage and drying spaces designed specifically for climbers’ needs.

Onsight Hostel perfectly embodies Margalef’s dedicated sport climbing culture through its community-centered design. The open layout encourages interaction through evening beta-sharing sessions, while the hostel’s singular focus on climbing optimizes every aspect of the experience. With qualified professionals ensuring “maximum safety” and an atmosphere where solo travelers quickly find partners, the hostel creates instant bonds among international guests.

Onsight Hostel Climbing Amenities:

• Professional guiding services with qualified instructors
• Introduction to sport climbing courses (two-day weekend format, $132 per person, groups of two to six)
• Introduction to equipped long routes courses (two-day weekend format, $153 per person, groups of two to five)
• Partner climber services for belaying ($66 per person, minimum three people)
• Comprehensive guidebook library
• Daily climbing area condition updates
• Partner-finding bulletin board
• Gear shop with essentials and emergency supplies
• Training area with fingerboards and campus rungs
• Rental equipment (helmet, harness, shoes, and safety carabiner with brake-assisted belay device)

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