Hacienda la Danesa, Guayaquil | Timbuktu Travel
Guayaquil

Hacienda la Danesa

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About Hacienda la Danesa

Worlds away from the big city, Hacienda la Danesa is a retreat for the senses & the soul.
Somewhere between the Pacific and the Andes, amongst the cacao plantations and rolling green hills, Hacienda la Danesa is a slice of the simple life. Sitting on a working farm, where everything from chocolate to honey is produced, the family has created a 'deep green' space to immerse yourself in and become reacquainted with nature. You'll get an inside look at rural living in Ecuador (try making your own chocolate!), explore the fields and further on horseback, and wander through the grounds where lime-green parrots flutter from branch to branch. Dinner can be in the secluded location of your choice, lit by a billion stars.
From $350 per person/per night
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Property details

The property

In verdant, green gardens, surrounded by a further 1,200 acres of sprawling land, the 'hacienda' has more than enough space to wander in. Dining is mostly alfresco, and the thatched Teca Terrace for Ecuadorian cuisine served in an open, hygge setting is a favourite. Head to the the beautiful bar before (or afterwards) for a drink of something cold, and recline in a cushioned lounger. During the day, a soak in the infinity pool is a must, especially after a spirited horseback ride - and make sure to grab some of farm's homemade products at La Tienda before you leave.

The rooms

The rooms fall into a variety of categories, ranging from restored stables to the original farmhouse rooms. Across the board, they are pristine and bright with polished wooden headboards, monochrome floral decor and snow-white sheets. The bathrooms are farm-chic with brick walls, exposed filament bulbs and marble showers. Some rooms also have an outdoor shower in a private garden. There's also a garden cottage with a private entrance and a family villa with kitchen and two bedrooms.

Activities

Hacienda la Danesa may be remote but boy does it have a lot to do. Spend time at the farm, touring the rows of cacao and learning how to make Ecuador's famous chocolate, join the in-house beekeeper for a lesson in honey, or cook up a storm with the chefs in the kitchen. The farm breeds pinto horses and you'll have the chance to canter (at your chosen pace) across fields, forests and rivers. Speaking of which, activity seeks will enjoy hopping on a tube and sailing downstream before enjoying a picnic under the powder-blue sky.

What you'll love

What you'll love

Honestly, what's not to love? The setting is exquisite, the food is delicious and the tiny details seal the deal.
Insiders tip

Insiders Tip

Certain rooms offer massages so don't leave that off your list.
Something to think about

Something to think about

The hacienda is about an hour away from central Guayaquil, so expect a bit of a journey if you'd like to spend the day on the coast.

Ecuador

Guayaquil

Stop in this coastal town on your way to Galapagos – and stay for the restaurants and picture-perfect beaches.