Cat's Hostel

Frommer's Review

This lively youth hostel, set in a converted 18th-century mansion, is extremely spacious, and the rich-colored tiles and attractive archways of the ground floor lounge and adjoining patio -- complete with gushing fountain -- are evocatively Moorish in style. Most of the predominantly young visitors here, however, are generally less interested in the decor than in taking advantage of the endless 'round-the-clock bars and nightspots within a stone's throw of the place, not to mention the impromptu celebrations regularly held in the lounge. (These include the famous Casa Patas flamenco hall, which is on the same street.) True to the hostel's feline associations, the reception is always open. (Cats don't sleep at night, so neither does the staff.) Rooms range from functional private doubles to basic but adequate dormitories accommodating up to 14. The cozy basement cave-bar prides itself, somewhat riskily, on serving the "cheapest beers in Madrid."

Facilities:
Cave-bar, 24-hr. reception; special surprise fiestas; free left-luggage facilities; laundry; visiting DJs; satellite TV; free internet; kitchen for guest use

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.