This Month´s Novelty

Casa Gangotena: a New Boutique Hotel overlooking Plaza San Francisco in Quito.

A New Boutique Hotel Overlooking Plaza San Francisco in Quito

Address in newly restored historic mansion dazzles with Art Nouveau and contemporary design, modern technologies and quintessential comforts.

Starting this month there is a new address for spirited travelers to experience the beauty and history of Old Town Quito: Casa Gangotena. Situated in a newly restored historic mansion overlooking Plaza San Francisco, the three-story boutique hotel harbors 31 rooms, each a showcase of eye-catching style, contemporary design, antiques, fine furnishings, modern technologies and quintessential comforts to impress the most discerning guests.

Casa Gangotena resides in a choice spot on Plaza San Francisco, a cobbled square rich with history stretching back to the days of the Inca. As the Plaza grew in importance in Quito, wealthy families erected grand homes around it, the mansion acting as the residence for several presidents during the late nineteenth century. Rebuilt in 1926 following a fire, the building was designated a "heritage property" soon after the capital was nominated as UNESCO's first World Heritage Site city in 1978.

Beautifully and eclectically appointed, the hotel's newly restored interiors draw the eye with Art Nouveau and contemporary touches combined with original Neo-Classical architecture. Indeed, from painted tin ceilings to handsome aedicules to stucco architraving, huge efforts have been made to preserve and restore the mansion's Original details, assuring an air of history and sophistication dressed up with understated luxury.

Glorious Andean light pours through tall windows, with views of the historic square, the inner courtyard or the Panecillo hillside. Full luxury amenities are standard. There is also a stylish Library arrayed with well-stocked bookshelves for relaxing reading.

A broad terrace on the third floor offers the best seats in the house for everyday life in Quito. The hotel's cozy glass-roofed patio, meanwhile, is perfect for relaxing with a patio-garden planted with orchids, flowers and ornamentals just beyond.

Conscious of the community of which it is a part, the hotel has outfitted Casa Gangotena with sustainable features including solar panels to lower energy use for heating water and electronic room keys. Since 2008, the hotel has also been involved in several neighborhood projects, such as the award-winning community initiative Heritage Guardians, which focuses on neighborhood integration, the value of heritage and traditions, and 'routes' for visitors to meet locals and experience their lives and ways.

Practical information:

Address:Bolívar Oe6-41 & Cuenca- San Francisco Square- Quito

Phone: 400 8000

E-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Website: www.casagangotena.com