10-Z Bunker

The breakfast selection was delicious and varied, with an added surprise. The staff, particularly the reception team, is exceptionally friendly and accommodating.

I am not a super fan of history but this (again) prompted me for a visit. Z-bunker is another quirky site here. It is a nuclear shelter at the foot of castle hill that was classified as top secret until 1993. It was built during the German occupation as protection against American and Russian bombing. During the Cold War (and later on), it could provide protection in the “unfortunate” event of a nuclear attack and could shelter up to 500 people for three days. We could see everything from the bunker kitchen and offices to the telecommunications room and the room intended for executions. A small part of the bunker near the entrance is transformed into a retro bar and I did feel kinda strange (and uncomfy) seeing all the oxygen masks hanging around the whole bunker.

This place is a cheap stay and a unique stay. If you’re looking for prime comfort look elsewhere. If you can handle basic amenities for a night or two then absolutely try it as it’s an experience. A few points worth making: - there’s a 24 hour reception - the Wi-Fi actually worked excellently - showers are old skool but warm and powerful. You must pull a chain to keep the water running but I’ve had far worse showers in hotels. - Bring your own toiletries as nothing provided. - toilets were simple but always clean - room was clean - air is damp stuffy but not so bad that you can’t sleep in it etc (my clothes did smell mildly damp when I left) - my room was surprisingly big and full of communist era paraphernalia. - I’m tall (191cm) and the bed had a bar at the end but actually I just about fit in without it impeding me which was good. - bed wasn’t too uncomfortable actually but then I do quite like slightly harder surfaces to sleep on. - pillow was a bit rubbish, sleeping bag old but ok. - Towel was old but fine. Hard to dry in the damp tunnel. - bin in every room and I had one plug socket. - Light not turned off in hallway at night and it came through the door glass window so you won’t get pitch black at night or anything close to it. - key good and security code used to enter accommodation so it is secure. - free self guided tour of the bunker included in price. - breakfast included in price but I never made it as it ran only 8-10am - check out 10am It was great value to be honest and I expected far worse. I wouldn’t choose this place if you expect to spend any time in your room but if you’re out exploring a lot and just need a bed + you’re mildly adventurous then I really recommend.