This colonial hacienda is a special and romantic base in which to explore nearby Cotopaxi National Park. It has great character and has been sympathetically restored, with antique furniture, large open fires in the rooms and antique bathtubs. Built on the site of a 15th century Inca fortress, the building still has some of its original walls.

In 1921, it was bought by General Leonidas Plaza Gutierrez, leader of the Liberal revolution and former President of Ecuador, and remains in the family to this day.

Location

The hacienda is located 5km from the entrance to Cotopaxi National Park, with its highlight being snow-capped Cotopaxi - the highest active volcano in the world.

A 1½-hour drive southwards from Quito along the Pan American Highway rises to 4000m at El Chaupi pass before descending into the fertile valley of Latacunga. The final 10-minute stretch to the hotel is along an unpaved road.

Things to do

San Agustin de Callo provides an excellent base for visiting the outstanding scenery of Cotopaxi National Park and its dominating, cone-shaped volcano. Fauna includes an abundance of birdlife as well as spectacled bear and Andean fox.

Activities that can be arranged include horseriding, mountain biking, fishing and hiking. There are also several colourful Indian markets within 20 minutes of the hacienda such as Latacunga (Tues, Fri, Sat), Pujilí (Sun)) and Saquisilí (Thurs).

Our comment

"One of Ecuador’s most unique haciendas San Agustin has the feel of a relaxed country home, albeit a rather grand one."