Illa Experience Hotel

For our first trip to Quito, we wanted to stay somewhere very special. That meant eschewing the modern chain hotels in the suburbs in favour of someplace unique in the historic district. I narrowed the list to three places within a few blocks of one another, but the boutique size of ILLA Experience Hotel and Spa, and the glowing reviews here that lauded the staff for their exceptionally personal service, won me over. I can’t imagine having made a better choice. This is one of the best hotels we have experienced anywhere in the world. The outstanding service began well prior to our arrival. So many emails and WhatsApp messages were exchanged between the front desk staff and me as we worked out dinner reservations, airport transfers, potential tours, and one very special request. Since it was to be our first time ever not being at home for December 24th and 25th, I asked if it would be possible for me to pay to have a real Chris**as tree put up in our room. It was an instant and enthusiastic “Yes!” from ILLA, and over the subsequent few weeks they sent me photos of the type of tree available, and potential ornaments and nativity sets. Eventually, together, we settled on a selection of typical ornaments, simple white lights, and a large cluster of red Ecuadorian roses at the top. The price was very reasonable as well. The next generous gesture came when we landed at 6AM on Chris**as Eve day. The hotel had someone waiting at Arrivals with a sign with my name on it, and she led us to a spotless newer SUV. En route to the hotel, she gave us so much history and interesting information about Quito. We were greeted at the front entrance by two smiling staff members with a silver tray of hot towels. To our great surprise (and relief, as we were exhausted), they said that they could have our suite ready for us in about an hour. Being able to check in so early, and without any additional charge, was such a wonderful Chris**as gift! We were escorted to Ines, the hotel’s little restaurant, to have breakfast while waiting, but we weren’t really hungry, so we just had juice, coffee, and some fruit. It’s a charming, bright spot with an open kitchen where guests can observe the preparations by the meticulous chef and crew. Before too long, we were brought to our suite, 248, and I was shocked by how large, bright, and new it was. I thought I had looked at every room photo here and on the hotel’s website, but I hadn’t seen any photos of this suite. It might be the best one they have. And we loved the interior location overlooking the beautifully designed outdoor pool and courtyard with a wall of enormous murals. The only drawback was a serious lack of storage space—especially in the closet. Two short bars did not provide enough room (or hangers) for people who packed enough clothing for a two-week trip. Perhaps a large wardrobe cupboard could be added to the spacious foyer? After unpacking, we slept fitfully for a few hours and then went out to explore the ne

Nestled in the old town, this boutique hotel offers a charming retreat with a few quirks. We stayed in a lovely room with a city view, a highlight of our visit. However, when booking, ensure your room has a window that can open; our children's room lacked this feature, and its proximity to the entrance made it quite noisy. The only window provided a view into the publicly accessible courtyard/lobby, which wasn't ideal for privacy. The staff was incredibly friendly, adding a warm touch to our stay. They even prepared a delightful birthday surprise, which was much appreciated. However, the service could be somewhat chaotic, especially when dining on the rooftop terrace, as everything needs to be brought up from the ground floor. The food was decent but not exceptional. One downside was the WiFi, which was very unreliable in our room, and the fridge in the room did not work, which was an inconvenience. Additionally, the hot stone massage was a disaster. The stones were not initially hot, and the therapist had to constantly boil water during the session, which disrupted the relaxation. Furthermore, some stones were dropped during the trea**ent, and others were too hot - not worth the money. Despite these issues, the hotel's charm and location might make up for the inconveniences for some travelers.

Stunningly beautiful boutique hotel with amazing service. I would not bother with the restaurant. The building is quirky but amazing. They have a pool and a jacuzzi too. The area is lovely too, but a few block from the city centre. We really enjoyed our short stay here.

From the minute you step into the lobby until you check out, be prepared to be spoiled. This hotel is top shelf all the way. Cool decor, entertaining “experiences” at 5 pm and great meals. Don’t miss the fire pit terrace. WiFi was not great in the rooms.

Look no further than this wonderful boutique for your ideal Quito experience. We stayed for four nights and enjoyed every moment. The hotel is truly beautiful, a restored mansion set on a quiet street and ideally located within Quito’s old town. Everything in this hotel, from the furniture to the food, is bespoke and made with pride of craftsmanship. But the standout luxury among all the nice things there are to say about this establishment is the attention and care you will receive from the hotel’s wonderful staff. There was no request too small or large! They had answers to every question. One member of our party has a dietary restriction and the chef worked wonders - the breakfast and the restaurant are both superb. I needed medical care for a chronic condition I suffer from and they found me an excellent doctor, helped me get what I needed from the pharmacy and also offered me some healthy, restorative food. Such sincerity and attentiveness is all but lost in the world of hospitality, but you will find it here. Thanks to the amazing staff of Illa Experience for a wonderful stay and such genuine hospitality in Quito.

We stayed at the Illa hotel for two nights after our Galapagos tour. It was a really beautiful and unique hotel. The staff is very attentive and genuine. I loved their little touches such as the art or local experience featured each day as well as the herbal drink provided to help with altitude sickness. The rooftop bar is really pretty and I would recommend a visit there and or the restaurant even if you are not staying. We stayed with our kids ages 9, 11 and 14 and they also loved it. We didn't get a chance to go in the pool but they have a very pretty, heated pool.

We were greeted after a long tiring flight bytwo members oif staff, with cool towels to freshen up and a welcome drink. Our room was huge and tbeautifully furnished. It opened on to a sunken patio and pool, which gave the hotel aa cool ambience even in the heat of the day. We found the restaurant very good, and the roof top bar with views out over the city to Panecillo were lovely. The staff were universally friendly and helpful without ever being intrusive, and they really made it a special experience.

I visited Quito for a girl’s trip and we decided to stay at ILLA. To say we were impressed is an understatement! This is hands down one of the best hotel properties I have every stayed at (and I have stayed at many!) The hotel staff really goes above and beyond to make sure its guests are enjoying themselves and are well taken care of. The complimentary experiences at the hotel are also extremely unique. They were a great way for us to immerse ourselves in the local culture! We participated in the ice cream making class, the water color painting class, and the spirits tasting class! If you’re looking for a hotel with a great breakfast, look no further than ILLA! The in house restaurant makes made-to-order dishes including empanadas, bagel and lox, pancakes, and eggs with bacon. They also serve fresh fruit, hand squeezed juice, and coffee. It was a really nice way to start each day. After returning from our day of exploring, we would watch the sunset from the hotel’s rooftop terrace. It’s such a magical place!

This is an attractive hotel in a nice part of the city. It is built within and around a historic home. Most of the modern touches are tasteful and the decore definitely highlights its authentic character. The restaurant is good, but perhaps a bit over the top. The best thing about Illa is the people that work there. They are warm, attentive, and very professional. I’d definitely return to this hotel.