Top 5 haunted hostels for Halloween
Halloween is fast approaching. HostelBookers, the budget accommodation specialist, has unearthed five of the most haunted hostels across the world to suit all spooky tastes. Castles, monasteries, brothels and old prisons may not guarantee the best sleep, but will certainly provide customers with an unforgettable stay.
In Ireland, there have been many ghost and ghoul sightings around the rural setting of Captain Halpin's Bunkhouse. The hostel, located in Wicklow, organises special evenings out to go and hunt them down. This year, especially for Halloween, there's a Murder Mystery night on the Saturday. On Monday 31 October there's a traditional Halloween party with apple bobbing and scary story time by the open fire. Wicklow's main square is set to turn into a Halloween Haven and the local gaol is even putting on a Halloween Horror Week.
Loch Lomond Hostel in Scotland is an impressive country house set in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. It has stunning views of Loch Lomond and the hills to the east. Guests can feel the ghostly presence as they walk around the grounds and the hostel is said to have its own ghost in permanent residence. The original features of the beautiful building - a sweeping staircase, stained glass window and ballroom - make it the perfect setting for a ghostly experience.
While it may appear tranquil and serene on the surface, 7 Santi ancient monastery is located in the very heart of Florence, home to the infamous poisonings and treacheries of the Borgia family. It certainly gives the Halloween holiday a rather macabre edge. Some say they've heard the whispers of souls trapped in the 7 Santi convent walls at night.
In Transylvania, guests can't get much spookier than staying in Nathan's Villa Hostel. It's right in the heart of Count Dracula's home town and next to the UNESCO World Heritage listed Sighisoara Citadel. The actual Nathan's Villa Hostel building is 100 years old - plenty of time to soak up the ghosts and ghouls in the spooky surroundings. The hostel offers lots of trips into the surrounding area, including the 800-year-old oak forest and hiking into the hills.
In San Diego, USA Hostels, located near a range of bars and restaurants in the heart of the Gaslamp District, is renowned for housing a brothel in the late 18th century. It's common to hear stories about the lights going on and off without reason, unexplained breezes and more. Also, if you happen to be a fan of old western gunfights at the Ok Corral, this might be the best place for you! It's said that the ghost of Sheriff Wyatt Earp still wanders around seeking revenge for his friend Doc Holliday.