Whitfield Hall

Nestled amid pine trees, this former plantation dating from 1776 is a basic option and has bunks for up to 40 people, with four to eight bunks per room. The dark, gloomy lounge has a huge fireplace (there’s a US$5 firewood charge) and smoke-stained ceiling. Gas lamps provide illumination. Guests share two basic bathrooms with toilets and tubs (cold water only), plus a small kitchen. If the hostel is full, camping is allowed on a wide lawn beneath eucalyptus trees. There are picnic tables, benches and a barbecue pit, as well as water and toilets. Locals will cook on request. You can hire guides (US$40 to the peak).