The Rocks at Plas Curig Hostel

There's nothing in the rules that says hostelling and mountain-hiking have to be rough and ready – and thank goodness for that, or The Rocks would be in trouble. With its chic Alpine feel, high-quality accommodation and stunning location, this is one very classy hostel in the heart of Snowdonia National Park. You can see the mighty Snowdon horseshoe range from your window, while you're also just a few miles from the adventure village of Betws-y-Coed.

The building has serious mountain heritage on its side: once a hotel and then the Plas Curig YHA hostel for many years. It's since undergone a hugely impressive transformation by outdoor enthusiasts Christian and Annie, who have returned to their family roots in Snowdonia to offer a comfortable but stylish base for anyone wanting to explore the nearby mountains. It's gorgeous inside, with stone-flagged floors, stripped-back wood and a real home-from-home feel in the public lounge areas, with a wood-burner, books and cushions, throws and artworks. There's all the outdoors hostel stuff you need, from boot room and bike storage to an excellent self-catering kitchen, plus the bonusof being in the hands of people who know what hikers and adventurers want, whatever their budget. So there's a firepit and terrace for al fresco nights, and the ability to bring your dog along too (provided you book a private room).

Sleeping-wise, there are 47 single beds and six doubles available, across 14 rooms, which breaks down into choosing from cosy doubles and twins, booking a 4, 6 or 8-bedded room, or a double with a single thrown in. These are really chic spaces too – especially so given we're often talking about bunk beds: hand-made wooden sleeping areas with built-in storage, individual lighting, fresh colours and knitted throws. Currently, you have to book the entire room, so it's great for hiking buddies, friends and family – individual bunk beds may be available in a room or two in future. There are eight shared bathrooms throughout the house, nicely turned out, each with a toilet, sink and shower.

They don't serve breakfast, but the kitchen is large enough to cope, and there's a café and two pubs within walking distance. You can hike directly from the door – heck, you're already in the mountains, in the heart of the National Park – but the local Sherpa bus service stops outside for buses up to the Pen-y-Pass car park for Snowdon hikes. Or jump on the bus in the other direction to visit the gloriously sited mountain village of Betws-y-Coed, where there are pubs, cafés and a railway station. With a car you're also 45 minutes' drive from the famously quirky Italianate village of Portmeirion or the same distance from the coast on the Llŷn Peninsula.