Andean Haciendas Tour

HOSTERIA LA CARRIONA
Constructed over 200 years ago, Hostería La Carriona has retained its history and character as its inhabitants have played a vital role in Ecuador’s past. In the mid-1800s its owner, Don José Fernández Salvador, was appointed President of the first Constitutional Assembly, laying the foundations for the country’s current government. The hacienda’s stone courtyard and garden are reminiscent of the Spanish Colonial lifestyle, while the 30 rooms are individually decorated and feature exquisite antique furnishings. Located within minutes of the Pasochoa Protected Forest, the tranquil surroundings ensure a pleasant welcome to Ecuador.

HOSTERIA LA CIENEGA
The six-foot-thick walls made of volcanic rock are one reason why Hostería La Ciénega has been a part of Ecuador’s history since the 16th century. Opened to the public in 1982, the hacienda has been passed down through generations of the Marques de Maeza family. Independence from Spain was plotted within these walls, as the family was a fervent defender of Simón Bolívar, and multiple members are considered Heroes of Independence. Over 125 years ago the first eucalyptus trees were brought from Australia to line the entrance of this magnificent property. The 34 spacious rooms are decorated in a classic style that takes travelers back in time. Traditional meals are prepared by Chef Alfredo, well-versed in the local cuisine since he has been on staff since the hostería first opened.

HACIENDA CUSIN
The history of Hacienda Cusín begins in 1602, when the Luna family purchased 100,000 acres from Philip II, King of Spain. After falling into disrepair in the mid-1900s, the property was purchased in 1990 and an ambitious restoration project led to multiple awards, with the Ecuadorian Constitution signed here in November of 2001. Magnificent gardens flower year-round and attract some 50 species of birds. All rooms are individually-decorated, furnished with antiques, Andean crafts, a fireplace and hand-woven bed covers. Cusín’s restaurant is led by Chef Marco and a staff of 12, including 3 sous chefs with specialties in fish, soup and pastries. Days can be spent enjoying the hacienda’s variety of animals, playing in the game room, watching a movie from the film library, exploring on horseback, getting a massage, or mountain biking.

HACIENDA PINSAQUI
Located at the base of Imbabura Volcano in Ecuador’s Lake District, Hacienda Pinsaquí was originally constructed in 1790 as a colonial textile enterprise, employing more than a thousand weavers and spinners. Once converted to a hacienda, General Simón Bolívar was a regular guest while he crisscrossed the continent liberating Venezuela, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru from Spanish rule. History continued to be written at the estate with the signing of the Treaty of Pinsaquí between Colombia and Ecuador in 1863. Traditions remain as the property has been passed down through the last five generations of the Freile-Larrea family. The 20 suites included fireplaces, and are set among ponds, palms and roaming llamas. Extra touches include Indian musicians from Otavalo serenading guests everyday at lunch, and occasional visits from the owner, who enters the bar atop his favorite stallion. The grounds feature an historic chapel, as well as horses, mountain biking and plenty of hiking.

PATIO ANDALUZ
In the heart of historic “Quito Antiguo,” Patio Andaluz is surrounded by churches, museums and national monuments. The building is an official National Treasure of Ecuador and was declared a Cultural Patrimony of Humanity by UNESCO in 1978. This luxurious boutique hotel features only 32 suites, as well as its own library. The exclusive “El Rincón de Cantuña” restaurant serves Ecuadorian, Spanish and international cuisine, complemented by the Tapas Bar “Marqués de Jerez.”