Highlights

• Stunning colonial architecture.
• Close to local historical and cultural sites.
• Enchanting Ecuadorian and Spanish cuisine.
• Host to world dignitaries, actors, and historic figures.
• Listed as an Ecuadorian National Monument.

Background

Hotel Patio Andaluz is a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Quito Antiguo, also called Old Town, and sits in the middle of the largest heritage center in the Americas. The hotel was originally two elegant residences of some of the city’s noblest families. The homes were built in the late 16th century and have survived in remarkable condition which is one of the reasons the hotel is now considered a National Treasure by Ecuador. The hotel complete with romantic balconies, porticos and archways which have been transformed into exclusive rooms and facilities for guests. Over the centuries, the hotel has been preserved and highlighted the Republican era architecture of the city which is one of the reasons Quito was the first city of be named a World Cultural Heritage Site named by UNESCO in 1978.

Experience

The Hotel Patio Andaluz is situated less than two blocks from Independence Plaza, the main square of Quito, which commemorates Quito’s first cry for independence from the Spanish monarchy. The hotel itself is regal looking with a beautiful stone entry covered with a stained glass and brass awning.

I walked though the magnificent atrium which at one point was an open-air atrium, has now been covered with a large skylight to let in the natural light during any season.

There are only 32 rooms at the Hotel Patio Andaluz, all tastefully decorated in the colonial style which is celebrated throughout the hotel. Both the Standard Rooms and Suites offer guests the choice of one or two queen-size beds. My room was a Suite which hasn’t lost its rustic charm. Each room is slightly different but the boutique hotel has gone to great lengths to create intimate and calming atmospheres by filling each room with ornate wood furniture and lovely golden earth tones. Each room has its own private bathroom with luxurious amenities. The second floor living area featured a desk with a work lamp, TV with cable and a comfortable sofa to relax after a long day of walking around the city. All rooms include air conditioning, a work desk area, complimentary wireless internet and cable TV as well as laundry service.

The El Rincón de Cantuña is the main restaurant at the Hotel Patio Andaluz and specializes in fine Ecuadorian and Spanish cuisine with an outstanding selection of local and international wines. The restaurant occupies the hotel’s grand atrium which serves an extensive breakfast buffet as well as numerous menu items to start the day out right. For dinner, El Rincón de Cantuña specializes in traditional dishes such as paella.

Tapas Bar Marqués de Jerez is another option for small plates and a more intimate atmosphere. The venue resembles a cavern with rough stone walls and decorative recesses that perfectly frame Ecuadorian art and curio pieces. The smaller space feels like more of a private club or speakeasy with specialty drinks prepared by the expert bartenders.

Being a guest in the Hotel Patio Andaluz is a lot like what I imagine being a guest in the colonial era must have been like. Everyone at the hotel was wonderful and made sure that I was always at ease with Ecuadorian hospitality. They were also more than eager to relate the hotel’s vibrant history which has earned it a special place in Ecuador as a National Treasure.

The buildings of Hotel Patio Andaluz have resided in the heart of Quito for centuries and has a unique relationship with the city. The close proximity to historical and cultural sites makes the hotel the perfect place to explore what Quito has to offer. With friendly staff, unpretentious luxury, and a true Ecuadorian feel, I would highly recommend Hotel Patio Andaluz to any travelers visiting Quito.

Contact
Hotel Patio Andaluz
Address: Garcia Moreno N6 52, Entre Olmedo y Mejia, Quito, Pichincha, 170401, Ecuador
Telephone: +593 2228 0830
Website: http://www.hotelpatioandaluz.com/
Email: info@hotelpatioandaluz.com