Central Highlands - Adventure Guide to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands - page 178

Cotopaxi Region
Relatively close to Cotopaxi, just outside the town of Lasso, is the fa-
mous Hacienda La Ciénega ,

3-719-052, fax [phone],
[e-mail]. La Ciénega is the oldest and most re-
nowned accommodation in the vicinity. Built in 1580, the property in-
cluded land that once spanned fromQuito all the way to Ambato - as
part of a grant from the King of Spain. Typically Spanish in style, the
main building boasts an attractive garden courtyard and the grounds
include acres of eucalyptus-shaded gardens and lawns. Colonial fur-
nishings adorn the rooms and new additions include a popular res-
taurant, bar, and lounge area. This historic landmark has offered its
services to royalty, heads of state, and diplomats over the last several
centuries, as well as quite a few adventure travelers. Horseback rid-
ing is available at a nominal cost. If possible, reserve a room in the
original hacienda. $$

Cuello de Luna , just off of the Pan-American Highway across from
Cotopaxi's southern entrance,

9-700-330, www.cuellodeluna.com,
[e-mail], is conveniently located and recom-
mended. It offers a nice hacienda setting with a wonderful view and is
reasonably priced. $$

Hostería San Mateo is south of Lasso along the Pan-American at
Vía Latacunga, Km 75, 3-719-015, [e-mail], www.

hosteriasanmateo.com. It offers a quiet escape, despite its proximity
to the highway. With peek-a-boo views of Cotopaxi and Ilinizas, this
comfortable retreat is close to Cotopaxi without being too far off the
beaten path (which can be much appreciated after you've had your
share of bumpy dirt or cobblestone roads). With a capacity for up to 15
guests, San Mateo provides six comfortable rooms and one cabin for
up to five people, all decorated in traditional style. Amenities include
a warm fire-lit lounge and covered patio, good restaurant and bar,
horseback riding options and plenty of space to stroll around. $$

Hacienda San Agustin de Callo is located in the southern foothills
of Cotopaxi National Park,

/fax 2-906-
157/8, [e-mail], www.incahacienda.com. This is defi-
nitely at the high end of accommodations. Although it is a relative
newcomer to the area as a hotel, remnants of Incan royalty still exist
in this attractive, early 19th-century hacienda. Built on the site of a
ruined palace, the chapel includes part of an Incan building and you
can still see the original carved stones in the dining room. The haci-
enda is a beautiful, remote getaway, andmeant to be just that. Rooms
are elegantly adorned with antiques, fireplaces, and hot-water baths.

/fax [phone], in Quito,