Illa Experience
The award-winning Illa Experience Hotel is an intimate property in the San Marcos district of Quito, offering authentic cultural experiences for guests with local Ecuadorian families.
The award-winning Illa Experience Hotel is an intimate property in the San Marcos district of Quito, offering authentic cultural experiences for guests with local Ecuadorian families.
Just five minutes’ walk from the main Plaza de Independencia of Quito’s Old Town, this small boutique hotel has a dozen guest rooms across three floors, each decorated with different historical themes: colonial, republican and contemporary. There are subtle Ecuadorian motifs, arts and crafts throughout and some intricately-carved doors were donated by San Agustin nuns. Rooms are smart and compact with modern amenities, double glazing and patio views, while the best suites have views of the Panecillo and Virgen de Quito.
The hotel’s restaurant is highly regarded for its innovative à la carte and tasting menus inspired by a fusion of styles from the diverse regions of Ecuador. There is also a rooftop bar where you can relax with a drink as the sun sets over the city, and guests also have access to a large pool.
Self-styled as an Experience Hotel, guests are invited to take part in Quito traditions, with attentive staff bringing the city’s history to life through daily experiences offered on and off site – from traditional weaving to painting, cookery and a neighbourhood walking tour. The hotel also partners with INES Restaurant on the NESTS project, an initiative promoting young chefs from rural areas with housing and scholarships.
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Tell us where you want to go, and we’ll take it from there. No obligation, no sales pitch – just a conversation with someone who knows the region inside out.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
