5 Mountain Hostels Where the Views Steal the Show

Mountain hostels offer something truly special for wanderers craving adventure and stunning scenery. Imagine waking up to panoramic peak views, spending your days hiking or skiing, and winding down with new friends around a hostel bonfire or cozy common room. These high-altitude hideaways combine thrilling outdoor experiences with the social, budget-friendly vibe that Gen Z and young travelers love. From the slopes of the Swiss Alps to the lakes of New Zealand, mountain hostels are where memories meet altitude. In this guide, we’ll explore five unforgettable mountain hostels around the world, each perfect for backpackers, solo adventurers, and hostel-goers hungry for a taste of the high life. Pack your bags and get ready to book an adventure of a lifetime!

Why Mountain Hostels Attract Young Travelers

Scenery and Adventure

Mountain hostels put you on nature’s doorstep. Quite literally. For energetic travelers in their 20s and 30s, this means instant access to hikes, waterfalls, ski slopes, and adrenaline activities. You can trek up a trail at sunrise, go paragliding or mountain biking by afternoon, and be back at the hostel to swap stories by evening. The awe-inspiring views and outdoor thrills are a huge draw for Gen Z adventurers seeking Instagrammable moments and authentic experiences off the beaten path.

Social Vibes

Hostels are known for their community spirit, and in remote or alpine settings that camaraderie reaches new heights. Young travelers today (over 80% of Hostelworld users are under 35) are often solo but eager to connect with others. Mountain hostels make it easy, from communal kitchens to organized hikes and bonfire nights, they’re natural gathering spots for like-minded explorers. It’s not uncommon to meet a hiking buddy at breakfast and end the day as lifelong friends watching the sunset over the peaks. The hostel social vibe is perfect for extroverts and introverts alike. Whether you’re bonding over trail maps or enjoying quiet reflection in nature, there’s a place for you.

Affordability and Authenticity

For Gen Z travelers on a budget, hostels are a no-brainer, and in pricey mountain resort areas, they can be a lifesaver. Instead of splurging on a sterile hotel, you get an affordable bed plus a home-away-from-home atmosphere. Many mountain hostels are run by passionate locals or backpackers-turned-hosteliers who can share insider tips about the area. This adds an authentic touch to your journey that you just can’t get from a luxury lodge. Plus, modern hostels often come with perks like free breakfast, Wi-Fi, tour desks, and even sustainability initiatives, all aligning with young travelers’ values of cost-consciousness and eco-friendliness.

Mountain hostels hit the sweet spot for young and social travelers: epic landscapes by day, new friends and cozy vibes by night, all without breaking the bank. Now, let’s dive into five incredible mountain hostel experiences around the globe that you can book right now for your next adventure!

Ashanti Lodge Gardens, Cape Town – Mountains & Memories in South Africa

Book Ashanti Lodge Gardens

Where city and mountains meet

Set in Cape Town’s leafy Gardens neighborhood, Ashanti Lodge Gardens offers the best of both worlds for adventurers. This historic Victorian mansion-turned-hostel sits in the shadow of the iconic Table Mountain, one of the 12 most beautiful mountains in the world (with a distinctive flat top you have to see to believe!). Step outside and you’re just a short walk from trailheads up Lion’s Head or Platteklip Gorge to Table Mountain’s summit. From the hostel’s balconies and palm-fringed sundecks, you can actually soak up magnificent views of Table Mountain while sipping your morning coffee. Talk about inspiration for your next hike!

Vibe and amenities

Ashanti Lodge is legendary in Cape Town’s backpacker scene. In fact, it’s one of the city’s oldest hostels (30+ years and counting). It remains popular for its fun, social atmosphere and top-notch facilities. There’s a sparkling swimming pool in a lush garden (complete with hammocks for lazy afternoons), and a lively on-site bar/café serving delicious breakfasts, pizzas and burgers. Many evenings feature BBQ nights (braais) or pool competitions, giving travelers a chance to mingle and enjoy South African culture. The staff are super friendly and can help arrange adventures. Whether you want to go surfing, wine tasting, or on a Cape Peninsula tour, they’ve got you covered. And when you’re ready to explore the city’s nightlife, the vibrant bars and restaurants of Kloof Street are only a 10-minute walk away.

Book Ashanti Lodge Gardens

Why it’s great for young travelers

Ashanti hits the sweet spot between adventure and convenience. By day you can tackle epic hikes up Table Mountain or take a short Uber to Camps Bay for beach time; by night you have a ready-made social circle at the hostel’s bar or common areas. The accommodation ranges from dorms to private rooms, all outfitted with handy perks like personal safes, charging outlets (no fighting for adapters!), reading lights, and brand-new modern bathrooms. Security is excellent, which is reassuring for solo travelers. They also embrace sustainable practices (solar-heated water, recycling, etc.), a plus for eco-conscious Gen Z guests. In short, Ashanti Lodge Gardens provides a safe, social launchpad for experiencing Cape Town’s mountains and more.

Don’t miss: Hike up Lion’s Head at sunrise for 360° views of the city and mountains – it’s a favorite local hike and easy to meet fellow hostel hikers to join you. After a day of adventuring, cool off in the pool and swap stories under the stars. This hostel truly feels like home in Cape Town.

El Mirador, El Bolsón – Patagonia’s Hidden Mountain Gem in Argentina

Book El Mirador

Into the wild of Patagonia

Tucked on a forested hillside above the town of El Bolsón, El Mirador Hostel is a slice of paradise for nature lovers and adrenaline seekers. “Mirador” means viewpoint in Spanish, and true to its name, this hostel boasts a private viewpoint overlooking the valley. You’ll wake up to stunning vistas of the Andes every day. El Bolsón is in Argentina’s Patagonia region, famed for its dramatic mountains and hippie, artsy vibe. The hostel sits on the slope of Piltriquitrón Hill (one of the area’s most important peaks), surrounded by 5 hectares of native forest. It’s far enough from town to feel tranquil and immersed in nature, yet just a quick ride down to markets and cafes when you need supplies or a craft beer.

Outdoor adventures

If you’re an active traveler, El Mirador is hard to beat. Step out the door and you’re in a mountain playground: trek through lush forests, paraglide over the valley, go horseback riding to hidden waterfalls, or even try rock climbing on Patagonian crags. Piltriquitrón is famous as an adventure sports hub – you might see paragliders launching off its slopes or join a guided trek to its summit for jaw-dropping views. The hostel staff can help organize excursions like kayaking on mountain lakes or biking trails through the woods. After a day out, nothing beats coming “home” to El Mirador to relax. The atmosphere here is all about chilling out and unplugging from the rush of routine life. As the owners put it, this is a place to hear “the sound of silence” and breathe fresh mountain air.

Book El Mirador

Cozy cabins & community

El Mirador has just six rooms plus a special little cabin called La Escondida (“The Hideaway”), so it feels intimate and friendly. Many rooms have private bathrooms (with 24-hour hot water – much appreciated after a cold mountain hike!) and all have amazing window views that make you want to linger in bed just gazing outside. You’ll find free Wi-Fi and lockers for convenience, but otherwise the focus is on simple comforts and nature. There are communal spaces like a kitchen and dining area, as well as a grill and campfire area in the forest where travelers often gather at night. Expect impromptu guitar music, shared Malbec wine, and stories under the Patagonian stars. Despite being off-grid in feel, the hostel still provides modern needs. There’s even a laundry service and the option to buy a hearty homemade breakfast each morning (so you can fuel up for those hikes!).

Why young travelers love it

This hostel was practically made for adventurous backpackers. In fact, it was “created for adventurers, mountain enthusiasts, hikers, and those with a genuine love for the outdoors,” according to its owners. The vibe is friendly and communal, making it easy for solo travelers to find a trekking buddy or a group to go river tubing with. Because it’s slightly removed from the town, everyone bonds in this little mountain haven. You truly get that “home away from home” feel. If you’re traveling in Patagonia on a budget, El Mirador is a gem: you get million-dollar views and rich experiences for a fraction of the cost of fancy lodges. It’s also a quieter alternative to the more touristy towns like Bariloche, perfect for Gen Z travelers who value authentic, less-crowded spots. You’ll leave with your soul recharged by nature and likely a new friend or two to meet up with down the road.

Don’t miss: Take the hike to El Bolsón’s Cabeza del Indio (Indian Head) rock formation or visit the bustling artisan market in town (Thursdays and Sundays) to enjoy local crafts and ice-cold craft beer. And definitely carve out time one evening to just sit at the hostel’s viewpoint as the sun sets behind the Andes. It’s a magic you’ll remember forever.

Mountain Hostel Gimmelwald, Switzerland – Alpine Adventure Basecamp

Book Mountain Hostel Gimmelwald

High in the Swiss Alps

If “sleeping in the clouds” sounds appealing, Mountain Hostel Gimmelwald is calling your name. Perched in the tiny village of Gimmelwald at 1,367 meters (4,485 ft) above sea level, this hostel is literally above the Lauterbrunnen Valley, one of the most picturesque spots in the Swiss Alps. Gimmelwald itself is a car-free village protected by UNESCO for its World Heritage-worthy beauty. You reach it by riding a gondola up the mountainside, which means every arrival feels like an adventure in itself! The moment you step off the cable car, it’s love at first sight: towering alpine peaks, waterfalls cascading down cliffs, and the hostel’s rustic chalet warmly welcoming travelers from around the globe.

A paradise for outdoor lovers

With a location in the heart of the Jungfrau region, Mountain Hostel Gimmelwald puts adrenaline at your doorstep. Dozens of hiking trails weave through flowery meadows and rugged ridges just outside the hostel – you can embark on anything from a gentle walk to a multi-day trek in the Alps. In summer, thrill-seekers try tandem paragliding over the valley or tackle the Mürren via ferrata (clipped into a cliffside, traversing high above ground!). In winter, the hostel becomes an affordable ski-in/ski-out base for the powdery slopes of the Schilthorn and Mürren ski areas – you can literally ski back to the village. Day trips are easy too: hop on the cable car and train to visit the Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe) or the turquoise waters of Oeschinen Lake. Whether you’re here to hike, ski, skydive, or simply fill your camera with jaw-dropping mountain vistas, Gimmelwald delivers.

Unforgettable hostel experience

Mountain Hostel has a way of capturing travelers’ hearts so much that many plan to stay one night and end up lingering for weeks. It attracts a certain type of backpacker (fun, friendly, and adventure-loving) so the atmosphere is famously social. Evenings often find everyone gathered on the outdoor deck with beers in hand, watching the last light hit the snow-capped peaks. Inside, the common room is cozy, with wooden beams and alpine décor that make you feel like you’re in a Swiss storybook. Travelers play cards and board games, strum the guitar or piano, and share stories of that day’s exploits. There’s a small bar and the option to purchase simple meals (the pizza comes recommended!), but many guests also cook their own food in the communal kitchen. Pro tip: bring groceries up from the valley since mountain prices can be higher. Every morning, the hostel serves a free hearty breakfast buffet to fuel your adventures.

Sleeping arrangements are rustic but comfortable. Dorm beds are in a traditional loft-style setting. Many of the bunk beds here are pushed together, creating one big slumber party space! It’s part of the quirky charm and “everyone’s family” vibe (though if you need more privacy, they do have a few private rooms available). Clean bathrooms and hot showers are on-site to revive you after a long hike. Importantly, the staff (often travelers themselves) are super welcoming and knowledgeable about the area. They’ll gladly point you to their favorite trail or help arrange activities like rafting, canyoning, or even skydiving in the valley below.

Book Mountain Hostel Gimmelwald

Why young travelers rave about it

Mountain Hostel Gimmelwald is often cited as a life-changing hostel experience. For many, especially solo backpackers, it’s the place they finally understood the true meaning of the saying “It’s about the people you meet.” The communal spirit here means you’re never really alone. By the end of the day you’ll have a crew to hike with or share fondue in the next village. The combination of that social warmth with the jaw-dropping natural beauty is pure magic. Plus, staying in an Alpine village that’s only reachable by cable car – how cool is that? Gen Z travelers looking for something beyond the typical tourist path will appreciate Gimmelwald’s authenticity (there are more cows than shops). And if you’re after epic content, let’s just say every angle is Instagram-worthy. From a practical standpoint, it’s also one of the more budget-friendly ways to experience Switzerland’s Alps, since hostels in these parts are rare. You truly get five-star views on a backpacker budget.

Don’t miss: Walk the Mürren via ferrata if you have a head for heights. Safely harnessed in, you’ll traverse along cliff edges with 600m of air below your feet, an unforgettable thrill (and it ends with a zipline!). For a mellower time, ride the cable car up to Schilthorn Piz Gloria, have a hot chocolate in the revolving restaurant (a James Bond filming location), and admire panoramas of famous peaks like Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Back at the hostel, grab a spot on the deck at sunset. The sky turning pink over the mountains is the perfect backdrop for one more Swiss beer with new friends.

Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers, New Zealand – Gateway to Fiordland

Book Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers

Lakeside serenity in NZ

On New Zealand’s South Island, the small town of Te Anau is known as the gateway to Fiordland National Park, a region of majestic mountains, fjords, and glowworm caves. Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers enjoys prime position right on the shores of Lake Te Anau, with a front-row view of distant peaks across the water. From the hostel’s garden, you can listen to native birds sing and watch golden light play on the lake. It’s a slice of tranquility that feels worlds away from hustle and bustle. Yet the hostel is only a five-minute walk from Te Anau’s town center, so you have easy access to supermarkets, cafes, and outdoor gear shops to prep for your next expedition.

Perfect base for adventure

If you’re coming to do the famous Milford Sound or one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, this hostel is an ideal staging point. The staff at the on-site travel desk are super helpful in arranging tours and transport, whether it’s a bus to Milford Sound, a kayaking trip in Doubtful Sound, or securing your hut bookings for the Kepler Track (one of the epic multi-day hikes that begins nearby). They love exploring as much as the guests do, so you’ll get genuine advice. Many travelers stay here before or after tackling the Milford Track, Kepler Track, or Routeburn Track, which are world-class mountain trekking routes in Fiordland. Even on a shorter visit, you can fill your days with hikes: there are plenty of day trails around Te Anau, like the lakeside path or the cheeky hike up to Luxmore Hut for panoramic views. After an “epic day in the elements” (as the hostel puts it), you’ll appreciate the facilities designed to help you recover: hot showers, a cozy movie room to rest your legs, and even a laundry to wash that muddy gear.

Book Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers

Homey and fun

Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers has a welcoming, home-like atmosphere – so much so that one recent guest said it “felt like a little bed and breakfast more than a hostel!” There are several accommodation options, including classic dorm rooms and even glamping-style tents in the garden for a unique experience (yes, you can sleep under canvas with the comfort of hostel amenities close by). The interiors are clean and simple, with cheerful decor. A fully equipped kitchen (plus outdoor BBQ grills) lets you cook your own meals – perhaps a kiwi-style barbecue while overlooking the lake? There are multiple common areas spread out in different buildings; one has a fireplace and comfy sofas, another is a TV lounge stocked with movies for rainy days. Fast free Wi-Fi is available for uploading all those gorgeous Milford Sound photos. The hostel also provides secure storage rooms where you can leave your big luggage or valuables if you’re heading into the backcountry for a few days. Little touches like free tea/coffee, board games, and the occasional friendly resident cat wandering around add to the charm.

Why young travelers choose it

For backpackers exploring New Zealand, this hostel checks all the boxes. It’s budget-friendly, social, and superbly located for adventure. Solo travelers find it easy to meet others here, especially if you’re looking for buddies to do the same hike or share a car trip to Milford. Pin a note on the bulletin board or chat in the kitchen and you’ll likely find a companion. The vibe is laid-back and international – you might cook pasta alongside a German trekker, then swap trail stories with a Canadian over a beer in the garden. While Te Anau isn’t a party town (don’t expect crazy nightlife), young travelers appreciate the chilled social scene: think group card games, shared dinners, and everyone turning in early to catch the next sunrise hike. With its combination of comfort and great location, many guests end up saying they wish they’d booked more nights. It’s also worth noting that everything is super convenient – grocery store and cheap eateries are nearby, and there’s free parking for those doing the classic van road-trip. Essentially, Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers makes exploring Fiordland easy and enriching. You’ll save money, meet fellow adventurers, and be right where you need to be for the next epic excursion.

Don’t miss: The Milford Sound day trip – it’s a must, and hostel staff can book a bus+cruise package for you (pro tip: morning cruises are usually quieter). Also take an evening stroll to the Te Anau glowworm caves or simply along the lakefront under the stars. With minimal light pollution, the Milky Way is often visible over the lake on clear nights. Before you depart, treat yourself to the famous Miles Better Pies in town for a true Kiwi backpacker experience.

Desti Youth Park Hostel, Chongqing – Chic Retreat in China’s Mountain City

Book Desti Youth Park Hostel

Urban mountain vibes

Chongqing, often called China’s “Mountain City,” is a metropolis dramatically built on hills at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. Desti Youth Park Hostel is tucked in an atmospheric historic alleyway of central Chongqing, where old red-brick buildings and steep staircases capture the city’s unique charm. In fact, the hostel is inside the first red-brick building at the entrance of Shancheng Lane – “Shancheng” literally means Mountain City. This century-old alley climbs up a slope, so from the hostel you get a glimpse of the mighty Yangtze River below and the modern skyline beyond. It’s the perfect base to experience Chongqing’s blend of old and new: step out and ride the antique cable car across the river by day, then at night explore the buzzing street food scene and neon-lit skyscrapers.

Design meets community

Desti Youth Park Hostel is not your typical backpacker crash pad. It’s styled as a travel concept space that’s part hostel, part social hub. The interior design is industrial-chic with a youthful flair: think exposed brick walls (a nod to history) combined with edgy murals and modern furnishings. On the top floor, you’ll find a spacious lobby lounge that feels like a trendy café/bar. Here you can grab a quality coffee or craft beer from the bar, browse the mini library/book exchange, or catch a film in the little movie corner. The hostel often hosts a Mountain City photography exhibition in the lounge, showcasing cool images of Chongqing’s scenery and culture – a great conversation starter with other guests. There are also tabletop games for when you want a chill evening in. An elevator connects the floors, so no worries about lugging your backpack up endless stairs (your legs will get enough of a workout exploring Chongqing’s hilly streets!).

When it comes to facilities, Desti has everything a modern backpacker could need. The dorm beds are cozy pod-style bunks with privacy curtains, reading lights, outlets, and lockers, perfect for digital nomads or anyone who appreciates a bit of personal space. There are female-only dorms as well as mixed, plus private rooms for those who want extra comfort. You’ll find the bathrooms clean and equipped with good showers (a relief in a hot, humid city). They even have a washer/dryer available, which is handy if Chongqing’s spicy hotpot dishes end up on your clothes! The staff here speak English and are super friendly, they’ll give you a map and highlight all the must-see spots like Hongya Cave (the famous riverside stilted houses) or Ciqikou Ancient Town. They can also help book tours, like a day trip to the stunning Dazu Rock Carvings or a Yangtze River cruise.

Social and safe

As part of the Desti Hostel chain, which is known across China for quality hostels, this place draws both Chinese youth and international travelers. The atmosphere is laid-back and social (but not wild) – it’s great for meeting fellow travelers over a board game or organizing a group to try Chongqing’s nightlife (ask the staff about the best rooftop bars!). Solo travelers, especially, give Desti high marks for feeling safe, welcoming, and easy to meet people. There’s even a coworking space area if you need to catch up on emails or travel blogging. And did we mention the hostel has a resident fat cat? Keep an eye out for a chunky feline lounging around – he’s not super cuddly but certainly adds to the homey feel and is an Instagram star in his own right!

Book Desti Youth Park Hostel

Why it stands out

Many travelers use Chongqing as a launching point for trips to Zhangjiajie or Tibet, but the city itself is worth exploring, and Desti Youth Park makes your stay all the better. Young travelers love how stylish and new the facilities are (it feels almost like a boutique hotel at hostel prices) and the way the hostel preserves a bit of local heritage with its location and design. Staying here, you get a crash course in Chongqing’s character: the alleyway outside has traditional lamps and locals playing mahjong, while a short walk leads you to metro stations and shopping districts. Gen Z hostel-goers will appreciate the mix of culture and comfort. You can immerse yourself in daily life, then retreat to an air-conditioned lounge with Wi-Fi to catch up with friends back home. It’s an ideal balance for a city adventure.

Don’t miss: Chongqing is famous for its hotpot. Join other hostel guests to brave the tongue-numbing spices at a local hotpot restaurant (the hostel staff can recommend their favorites). By day, ride the Yangtze River Cable Car for a thrilling view of the skyline, or hike up to Eling Park for a panorama of the city’s mountainous terrain. In the evening, the nearby Jiefangbei area offers shopping and street food, or head to the riverfront to see the Hongya Cave all lit up like a scene from Spirited Away. After soaking in the city’s energy, you’ll love coming back to Desti Hostel’s calm oasis.

Pro Tips for Staying in Mountain Hostels

Staying in a mountain hostel is a bit different from a typical city stay. Here are some quick tips to make the most of your high-altitude adventure:

• Pack for all weathers: Mountain weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers (including a warm jacket and raincoat) even in summer, plus good walking shoes or boots. Don’t forget sunscreen. High elevations can have strong UV rays, even on cloudy days.

• Book in advance: Many mountain hostels are small and popular, especially in peak season (summer for hiking, winter for ski areas). Beds can fill up fast, so reserve early to avoid disappointment, and secure those free cancellation deals in case plans change.

• Travel light to remote areas: Some hostels, like Gimmelwald, are only reachable by cable car or on foot. You won’t want to haul a giant suitcase up a mountain! Pack a manageable backpack; many hostels offer luggage storage if you need to leave a bag in town.

• Be ready to unplug: Wi-Fi might be limited or slower in very remote locations (though all our listed hostels do offer it). Take it as an opportunity to disconnect a bit. Download maps and entertainment offline beforehand, and enjoy the break from constant notifications. Charge your devices when you can and carry a portable battery if you’ll be out all day on trails.

• Embrace the community: Mountain hostels often have wonderful communal activities. Join that sunset hike, group barbecue, or game night. It’s a fantastic way to make friends. Share your plans with others; you might find a buddy to join you for the next day’s adventure!

• Respect nature and locals: You’re often in pristine environments or small villages. Stick to marked trails when hiking, carry out your trash, and respect hostel quiet hours (others are resting for early hikes). Also, be mindful of local customs. In some mountain regions, life is more traditional or tranquil, which is part of the charm.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be set for a smooth and memorable mountain hostel experience. Now, let’s tackle a few common questions travelers have about mountain hostelling.

Ready to conquer new heights?

Mountain hostels across the world are waiting with open arms (and open trails!). Whether you’re a solo Gen Z backpacker finding your confidence on the road or a group of friends chasing the next big adventure, these hostels provide the perfect launchpad. From Cape Town’s Table Mountain to Patagonia’s serene forests, the Swiss Alps, New Zealand’s fiords, and the cliffs of Chongqing – the world’s peaks are within reach. Best of all, you can easily book all these unique stays on Hostelworld and join a global community of travelers who believe the journey is just as rewarding as the destination. So lace up your boots, grab your backpack, and get ready to make some mountaintop memories. Happy travels and see you above the clouds!

Download the Hostelworld app to start booking now

FAQs: Mountain Hostels