Hacienda La Cienega

Built as an aristocratic home in the 17^th century, Hacienda La Cienega has remained in the same family ever since and retains its historic atmosphere. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens, and sits on the slopes of the Cotopaxi volcano, affording stunning mountain views all around.

The rooms and suites are traditional and rustic in style, with pastel-coloured walls and wooden shutters, floors and furnishings. Some of the rooms have fireplaces, and Triple rooms have rugged exposed stonework on the walls. For the ultimate indulgence, opt for the Luxury Suite, which has a four-poster bed, plush rugs on the wooden floor, and a beautiful wooden-beamed ceiling.

Hacienda La Cienega’s restaurant serves delicious Ecuadorian and international cuisine courtesy of chef Alfredo. At breakfast, you can start the day off right with a range of fresh fruit, pastries and cooked options, washed down with fresh-pressed juices and Ecuadorian coffee. At lunch, traditional dishes include grilled corvina fish and camarones al ajillo – garlic prawns with rice. Music from a traditional Andean band often accompanies dinner. Dietary requirements are well catered for.

The hotel’s historic theme extends to the amenities. There is no fancy spa, but there’s a lovely garden area with a serene outdoor pool, and outdoor tennis and volleyball courts; there’s also a gift shop where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts. There are comfortable communal lounge areas to relax in, and you can visit the beautiful historic chapel in the grounds, surrounded by peaceful gardens.

With its foundations on the slopes on the Cotopaxi volcano, Hacienda La Cienega’s location offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. From the hotel, you can organise excursions including horseback and bike tours around Cotopaxi and beyond, trips to nearby hot springs, and treks to the Quilotoa lagoon.

Latacunga itself is a charming town with a historic centre; head to the Parque Vicente Leon to really get a feel for the place. The Casa de la Cultura, built around an old Jesuit watermill, showcases local traditional culture and art, while for stunning mountain views head to Mirador de la Virgen del Calvario, a lookout on the east of town.