Casa de Piedra

The room is simple, and the price felt a bit high for what you get, though the setup was thoughtfully done. One double room is in a converted shipping container, with its own bathroom and a veranda beside a running stream, surrounded by vegetation. It has a secluded jungle feel. There’s a fly screen so you can get airflow and listen to the water. Bring repellent and long clothes. It’s a lovely little family-run hotel just outside Mindo, with a fresh water pool, friendly staff and a nice breakfast. I could have stayed for weeks.

We were a group of more than ten friends, and the place accommodated us well. It has a lovely rustic, artisan feel across the lodge and grounds. The nights were quiet, even though it’s just a quick walk over the bridge to the town centre. I’d recommend it.

The rooms are basic, but they were clean, comfortable and had what I needed. The amenities worked as expected, and the cleanliness made for a pleasant stay. I spent most of my time exploring, so a functional place to rest was enough for me. What stood out most was the location, with easy access to attractions, places to eat and transport. Staff were helpful throughout, sharing local tips and recommendations, including restaurants and how to get around. Their knowledge made it easier to enjoy my time in the city. It isn’t a luxurious hotel, but it does the essentials well. I’d recommend it for its convenient location, decent services and staff who are willing to help.

Being near Mindo town was a plus, but it didn’t make up for the rest of the stay. The room might suit one person on a weekend away, but it was a poor fit for our family. I also found the pool under-maintained and the staff service lacking, which I feel came down to management and poor communication. Before we arrived, management changed our booking and rooms, then tried to increase the price. They said they were doing us a favour, and we spent almost an entire evening arguing about it. Unacceptable.