Hosteria Mama Hilda

Set in pretty, vibrant gardens, the Hostal is actually a group of pretty buildings, all featuring white balconies and peaked roofs. The dining room is filled with multi-coloured table cloths and bold paintings, and Mama Hilda serves her tasty local cuisine and handmade pasta and desserts arrive fresh from the Italian monastery down the road! In the annexe, there is a cosy bar and lounge with far-reaching views of the valley and periwinkle sky above.

The rooms are cosy and neat, with large wooden beds decorated with bright bedspreads and cushions, and walls lined with images of the Avenue of Volcanoes. Each room has a private sitting area and some enjoy a balcony with a hammock - we don't blame you if a nap is first on your list, as you'll wake up to that view. The bathrooms are well-appointed with a circular shower and pleasant amenities. Certain rooms also enjoy an open fireplace for the chilly mountain evenings.

Take your pick from one of the area's many hiking trails and set off to discover brimming, turquoise crater lakes (kayaks can be rented at Quilotoa), sprawling alpine paramo and deep canyons. There is also the option of a mountain bike or horseback ride, where you'll travel with one of Ecuador's traditional cowboys. Make like a local and visit one of the vibrant markets where you're sure to find a souvenir or two, or learn to make a traditional craft.