Hacienda Zuleta

A stunning drive through the mountains from Quito takes you deep into the Ecuadorian Andes, where this 17th Century manor farmhouse was once the home of the Plaza Lasso family. Anyone searching for a genuine and authentic experience of Ecuador’s highlands will relish a stay at this farm. As one guest described it, ‘Fernando and his family welcome you like a long-lost relative. ’ Zuleta still produces cheese (17 different types, to be precise), and the team is integral to the protection of Andean bears, condors and the age-old traditions of the local community. With 2000 acres of farmland, peaceful gardens and primary forests roamed by spectacled bears, there is no end to adventures waiting in these grassy Sierras. Learn to cook with the friendly kitchen staff, ride on horseback with local guides and watch local embroiders crafting the famous Zuleteno embroidery. Take in the backdrop of snow-topped volcanic peaks as you picnic beside crystal clear mountain lakes. This exquisite Hacienda should be on every itinerary to mainland Ecuador.