Stay in a Restored
17-Century Hacienda Ecuador

Amazing The hacienda, located about 10 kilometers from Otavalo, is one of the most extraordinary lodgings my husband and I have ever experienced. Its history... read moreThe hacienda, located about 10 kilometers from Otavalo, is one of the most extraordinary lodgings my husband and I have ever experienced. Its history dates back to 1602, when the Spanish sold an enormous spread of property in Ecuador to Castilian aristocrats whose daughter was marrying nobility in the New World. What happened after that fills 4 single-spaced pages of the hotel’s written history. By 1990, however, the property had fallen into grievous disrepair. Happily a former teacher from Manhattan who had traveled in South America for decades, collecting exquisite textile pieces as he went, was persuaded to buy the place. Since then, Nicholas Millhouse has transformed the main house, which recalls the glory of an 18th century manor, and expanded it by creating a fantasy “monastery” studded with both centuries-old art and wild expressions of wit and creativity.

We had the good fortune to spend a night at the hacienda when Millhouse was in residence. A gracious host and captivating raconteur, he was generous in sharing insights into his achievement, which includes assembling a team that is unfailingly warm and generous. Together they have made the extensive gardens a paradise. We stayed in the Duenita suite, equipped with a huge and wonderful bed. The wi-fi and shower water temperature were a bit sketchy, but the hacienda offers a lot of alternative entertainment: horseback riding, resident llamas, a well-stocked library, movies, and games. Meals in the romantic dining room were top-notch too. If you’re anywhere near it, my advise is: don’t miss this place. And don’t make our mistake. Stay longer than just one night. read less

perfect place to start a hike the staff really tried and the hotel was extremely welcoming at 230 am and all the staff went out of there way to provide... read morethe staff really tried and the hotel was extremely welcoming at 230 am and all the staff went out of there way to provide local drivers answers to questions good daily options..a hidden gem...the local craft market is a dont miss read less

One of the great haciendas of Ecuador Stay in the hacienda. Stay in one of the garden suites. Or stay in the adjacent monestary. The whole place... read moreStay in the hacienda. Stay in one of the garden suites. Or stay in the adjacent monestary. The whole place is beautifully decorated with antiques and fine art. Come back to your room after dinner to find the fire set in the fireplace, the bed turned down, and hot water bottles inside. good restaurant. A $5taxi ride from the bustle of Otavalo. Lovely grounds with orchards and vegetable gardens for the restaurant, hiking trails. Horses available from the stable. Bikes also. Day tours can be arranged to go anywhere, do anything. This place is over the top beautiful at a not (quite) over the top price. More read less