Casa Gangotena

This magnificent colonial-style hotel is located on Plaza San Francisco, the city’s most beautiful square, and its beating heart. The grand marbled lobby leads on to a glass-ceilinged reception room filled with fresh flowers and squashy sofas and where high-tea is served daily. The panelled bar is brilliantly atmospheric - dark wood, leather armchairs, and top-notch cocktails. The roof terrace over looking the hustle and bustle below is also a perfect spot for a sun-downer. On a clear evening the snow-capped Cotopaxi volcano can be seen looming in the distance. The 31 rooms across two floors are large and comfy all with double-height windows, and overlooking either the hotel’s internal courtyard or the Plaza. They feature bright, floral wallpapers and high, patterned ceilings. Bathrooms are marble-floored and generous, all have a spacious shower and a separate bath and lovely L’Occitaine soaps. The restaurant Casa Gangotena is open for buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner. Menus showcase seasonal local Ecuadorian ingredients and dishes are well executed and jolly tasty. Service is slick and personal. Staff speak good English and are full of excellent recommendations for food, drink and activities - both "must see" and "off the beaten track”.