In the southern mountains of Ecuador lies a small village where people live a long time, it’s amazingly scenic, and it seems like more like a resort in a hot spot, not in a tiny mountain South American village. Pair that with the weather…it’s a contrast of mountains and jungle, but the weather is famously consistent and lovely year-round. Vilcabamba, Ecuador, or the “Valley of the Immortals,” was an impromptu stop on my route from Huanchaco in Peru to Quito, Ecuador. My friend, Linda, from Huanchaco, insisted I visit and stay at an incredible inn called Le Rendez-Vous.

Although it was a long bus ride and a scary mountain van ride up to the village, and certainly out of my way (not to mention arriving in the dark rain made finding the almost-hidden inn very difficult), once I went behind the gates I was thrilled.

It remains my favorite place I stayed in all of Ecuador and Peru (my two stops in South America so far!), and I think the images below will show you why.

I did explore the village, and it was beautiful and quaint, but I almost wish I had stayed all day on my hammock in the garden, drinking fresh juice and reading a book. In fact…I plan to go back there one day and do exactly that! I was also there for one night, so it would be fun to explore more of the area.

Visit Le Rendez-Vous here to make a reservation and for current prices. When I stayed it was $14–which felt like a splurge at the time! It also includes a lovely breakfast on your porch in the garden. I would expect the price to have risen since then, but it’s still a bargain. Ecuador currently uses the American dollar as their currency, which makes things a little easier (although I love to collect unique moneys!).

To get to Vilcabamba, take a bus to Piura (if coming from the south) or Cuenca (if coming from the north) to Loja. From Loja, you’d then grab a van up into the mountains. It’s far up there, but trust me, it’s worth it! 

{the garden at Le Rendez-Vous / so many flowers! / the little bungalows: with porch & hammock! / a blurry photo of my cozy room: with hot water! / my porch / a shot of the main plaza in Vilcabamba, just for kicks}

What’s one of your favorite little hotels you’ve found on your travels? I’d love to hear!

p.s. I’m linking up for Travel Tuesday today! Check it out, I’m so excited to be joining these other fabulous bloggers.

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