If you are looking for a different kind of hotel experience and have a taste for adventure, check into Freemantle Prison YHA when you’re next in Western Australia. No kidding, this prison-turned-youth hostel offers a few kinds of accommodation styles from shared dormitory style beds ($28 per night), twin bed accommodation in original jail cells ($68 per night) to double ensuite rooms ($120 per night) and relatively luxurious family cottages in what used to be Victorian-era guards’ cottages just outside the jail compound. Take your pick.
The jailhouse has been renovated but the heritage remains in the floors, walls and original cells still standing. Originally known as the Convict Establishment, the prison was built in the 1850s. It housed convicts from 1855 until as recently as 1991, and had its fair share of hangings, floggings, escapes and riots. That is thankfully not part of the hotel experience these days. Instead the Freemantle Prison YHA is equipped with self-catering kitchen, TV rooms, a laundry and luggage storage, air conditioning, heating, Wi-Fi and round-the-clock receptionist. Within walking distance is the port city of Fremantle with its markets and bohemian cafes. The train station is 1km away.
Fremantle Prison YHA
6A The Terrace, Fremantle WA
http://www.yha.com.au
Simply Fabulicious 