Hacienda Las Cuevas Terra Lodge

What an amazing place! We walked up a magical tree-lined lane with an amazing view all around to find horses standing in a field. So peaceful! so beautiful! The room was unique, the food was fantastic. We played ping pong and pool to enjoy the day before returning to the airport for our flight. Great spot for a couple looking for a romantic getaway or for a family looking for a cool place to hang out. (Do let them pick you up though - the road to the hotel is not easy!!)

We were looking for a rural place close to Quito for a couple of nights to recover from our long flight from Europe and thought this place looked good. It was. An easy pick up at the arrivals with a pre-booked transfer and we were at the Hacienda in less than 30 minutes. The Approach road is a little bumpy for the last couple of kms but not a problem. Reception was warm and friendly and we were quickly shown to our room #3 which was raised above the spacious grounds with good views. It locks up and there is a wall safe. The main living area comprises a lounge corner and a huge double bed which was excellent and very comfortable. We are at about 8,000 amsl so it was good to have warm blankets even on the Equator. The Hacienda is designed to look like a set of cave dwellings or cloisters and it works well. Restaurant is warm and large with a nice log fire for those chilly evening. There did not appear to be a menu but we were offered several choices in both European and Ecuadorian cooking. Wine is excellent and reasonably priced. We had poached Salmon one evening and Marinated Belly Pork another. There are several activities daily including riding and walks both guided or unguided. Or just sit out on the balcony and spot the birds. All told this was a nice find and we would visit again.

A truly unique and amazing property. Perched on the top of the Andes mountaintop, you will wonder if you are on the right path to get to this hidden gem of a hotel!! I strongly recommend that you use Waze! The management was incredible, knowledgeable and really gave us personalized service. Plan to eat at their restaurant, the chef really puts a lot of effort and thoughts into his creations and it was one of our best meals in Ecuador. The property is quirky and whimsical, comfortable and clean. The management has put together a great list of activities so you really do not need to leave the hotel for food or activities. I highly recommend this lodge if you are adventurous and tired of boring hotels with no personality. We booked it for our last night in Ecuador with a later flight the next afternoon from Quito and it was the perfect ending to our Ecuador vacation.