Best hotels in Ecuador

The very first city to be made a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quito has a fascinating history that bleeds into every building and cobblestoned street. Built in the artists neighbourhood of San Marcos, ILLA is no exception. With its roots as a 17th-century family home, the hotel permeates a sense of warmth and hospitality while its decor is chic, modern and bold. With just 10 rooms, it's an intimate, boutique space with scene-stealing oil paintings, signature amenities (more on that later) and lovely views over the city. Set out to discover the delights of Quito, from its grand, aged plazas to the tiny stores selling Panama hats - did you know they happen to originate in Ecuador?

Amidst the Tolkien-esque landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park, Chilcabamba embodies a passion for nature, appreciation for indigenous culture, and the adventurous spirit Ecuador is known for. The entire lodge was built from locally-sourced and recycled materials, its thick adobe walls keeping out the chilly night air and its style is rustic and authentic. In every room, there is a wood-burning stove to keep you toasty after a day spent delving into the rapturous surrounds with Chilcabamba's resident chagra (an Ecuadorian cowboy), Rafael. And there are horseback rides across the grasslands, hikes along trails of petrified lava, and kayaking in a crater lake to get stuck into as well.

Mysterious? Yup. Magic? Oh yes. Ecuador's slice of the Amazon Basin has to be seen to be believed. The biodiversity is staggering, with thousands of weird and wonderful creatures from pink freshwater dolphins to tiny neon frogs hidden under the leaves. Within the incredible Yasuni Biosphere Reserve, La Selva is a jungle oasis on the shores of Lake Garzacocha. A leading eco-lodge, its design was inspired by authentic thatched bamboo cabanas, which are sprinkled amongst the trees and have tranquil views over the water. Speaking of which, you'll have ample chance to explore on kayaking adventures and hikes into the forest - day or night!

Located in the heart of the Avenue of Volcanoes and just two hours north of Quito, Hacienda Zuleta holds a very noble heritage: it was once the residence of former president Galo Plaza. Today, the estate is a 2,000-hectare working farm (cheese factory included!), still run by the Plaza family and surrounded by breathtaking rural views. The hacienda’s distinguished history shines through in every room of the main house, replete with antiques and boasting an impressive library. And with plenty of activities on offer - from horseback riding and hiking to mountain biking or cooking lessons - it’s the ideal setting to immerse yourself into Ecuadorean tradition and culture.

Over the years, the Galapagos Island have reached an almost mythic status, their shores the home of adventure, surreal landscapes and an array of endemic wildlife that will have you grasping for your camera. And let us say, the 'Enchanted Isles' never disappoint. The only beachfront hotel in Puerto Ayora, Finch Bay is a little slice of heaven. Built to mimic its rugged, natural surrounds, the hotel is understated and eco-friendly - even the spa is built from volcanic rock. And then there are the activities. With every manner of water sport you could dream of, including snorkelling at one of the archipelago's top spots and island hopping on the Sea Lion, it's a perfect Galapagos adventure.