Quito
Overshadowed by Pichincha volcano, Quito is an amalgamation of colonial and Indian influences. With an altitude of over 9,000 feet, the thin Andean air and strong Equatorial sun result in a capital city that moves at its own, rather sedate, pace and is a pleasant place to recover from a long flight and acclimatise to the mountains.
The cobblestone streets, parks, plazas and wonderful old colonial architecture of Old Quito have been sympathetically restored.
Our preferred accommodation
Casa Gangotena
City hotel - Historic centrePreviously a privately-owned mansion, Casa Gangotena has been beautifully restored with antiques and eclectic furniture. Many of the original features and quirky additions in the 1920's such as tin ceilings have been retained and refurbished. Spread over three storeys, the communal areas include a wood-panelled library, a dining room, patio, rear garden and third floor terrace with wonderful views. The hotel overlooks the historic, cobbled Plaza San Francisco and is in the centre of the colonial old town.
Illa Experience
City hotel - Historic CentreA luxury boutique hotel in the charming neighbourhood of San Marcos, popular with artists, writers and musicians. This historic 20th century mansion is a few minutes' walk from Plaza Grande, and has been transformed into an elegant and stylish hotel. There is a restaurant, bar, outdoor terrace, spa and gym.
La Casona de la Ronda
City hotel - Historic centreA small and friendly hotel on the lively la Ronda street, on the edge of Quito's historical centre. Nicely decorated throughout, there is a cosy restaurant and sitting area on the ground floor, and a viewpoint on the top floor.
Mama Cuchara
City hotel - Historic CentreA contemporary boutique hotel in a refurbished 18th century Spanish-colonial house, a few minutes' walk from the Plaza Santa Domingo and the La Ronda neighbourhood. There is a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace and bar with a view across the city. The hotel is an eclectic mix of old and new; some guest rooms have original wooden beams, whilst others are in an extended section of the house. The interior is complemented by colourful fused-glass doors and rotating exhibits of various Ecuadorian artists.
Patio Andaluz
City hotel - Historic centreThe Patio Andaluz is a colonial-style hotel in the heart of Quito Old Town. It has 2 courtyards, a reading room, restaurant and bar.
Rumiloma
Lodge/Hosteria - City outskirtsA beautiful lodge on the slopes of Pichincha volcano with fantastic views over Quito. The sitting area is beautifully decorated with many antiques and the restaurant serves wonderful food. There is always a warm welcome from Amber and Oswaldo!
San Francisco de Quito
City hotel - Historic centreA small, friendly, colonial hotel in the heart of the old town with lots of character, comfortable rooms, a patio courtyard and a small restaurant.
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