Casa Ordoñez

Just a few blocks from the central square, cathedral and good restaurants, and the staff are so friendly and helpful. The family who owns the house lived here for generations. When they turned it into a hotel, they kept its heritage in mind, and there are still lovely pieces of furniture, including some brought from France for their quality. I’m looking forward to returning.

The beds are comfortable, there’s plenty of hot water for showers, and the whole hotel is impeccably clean. Breakfast is not to be missed, and the staff always made me feel welcome. It’s a family run place, beautifully renovated and furnished with antiques. I highly recommend it without hesitation.

Right in Cuenca’s historic center and just two blocks from the main square and old cathedrals, the location is ideal. We loved it enough to extend our time in both the hotel and the city. The price is hostel level, despite the feel of a luxury boutique hotel, and the value is outstanding. The Ordonez family has taken tremendous care with this old Spanish style Ecuadorian house. Built in the 1890s, it still has original doors and other features, and where things were missing, they found replicas from the same period. The vintage restoration and furniture give the place a character I’ve rarely seen in a hotel. Alberto and the staff were welcoming and helped us plan affordable tours and transport, as well as sharing advice about festivals and the surrounding area.

Everything was within easy reach, from Parque Calderon and the River Tumebamba to restaurants, coffee shops and the main free attractions. The owners are warm, caring and educated, and the service had the same thoughtful feel. Breakfast was hot and generous, with fresh fruit, squeezed juice, yogurt and plenty of coffee. My room had a comfortable bed, fresh roses and new towels every day, even when I’d hung up the old ones. The new shower had room for two, a flat floor, a wand and lots of hot water. They also left fresh bottled water each day. All of that for 50.00 a night. Viva la Cuenca and Casa Ordonez.