Ecuador's Mansion Alcazar
Mansion Alcazar
This is an elegant oasis in the heart of Cuenca, a meticulously renovated 1870s house that once belonged to the president of Ecuador. Behind a large closed gate you'll enter into a world of old colonial living. A beautifully tiled enclosed courtyard with a fountain leads to plush rooms on two floors. Each room is different in size and decor but they all have one thing in common: Every piece of furniture was made in Cuenca.
Elegant antiques and fine objets d'art give the rooms that old colonial feel. The suites have wrought-iron four-poster beds; no. 207 has a mural of angels on its ceiling. Bathrooms have Cuencan marble and each one has different hand-painted walls. There's a lovely garden ringed with palm trees and filled with lavender and rose bushes; a few resident hummingbirds complete the picture. The beautiful dining area overlooks the garden and there are a few tables outside for alfresco dining on warm days. The elaborate breakfast includes rolls and fruitcakes baked on the premises. The owners are welcoming and friendly.
