Tucked into a quiet street in San Marcos, a residential neighbourhood of Quito that has, for centuries, been home to a lively community of artists, musicians, and writers, is a small luxe hotel that is big on character.
Unparalleled Daily Experiences
At ILLA Experience Hotel, the curated daily experiences set it apart as a unique destination. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in Ecuadorian culture through a variety of engaging activities:
Artisan Workshops: Participate in traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, and painting, guided by local artisans who have perfected their skills over generations.
Culinary Classes: Learn to prepare classic Ecuadorian dishes using local ingredients. Guests can join the chef in selecting fresh produce from nearby markets before returning to the kitchen to cook.
Cultural Tours: Explore the rich history and vibrant streets of San Marcos with guided tours that delve into the neighborhood's artistic and cultural heritage.
Music and Dance: Enjoy live performances of traditional Ecuadorian music and dance, offering an authentic taste of the local artistic scene.
Wellness Activities: Engage in yoga sessions, meditation, and spa treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind.
A Heritage mansion rescued with sustainable architecture.
Typical of the Quito mansions of the early 20th century, the three-storey building has been restored with utmost care and precision, with each floor reflecting a different period – colonial, republican, and contemporary – of the country’s history. Each of the ten guest rooms is individually and impeccably decorated with handcrafted furniture, 400-thread count linens, pillow menus, luxury toiletries, and views across Quito’s historic centre.
Everything inside ILLA is handmade and shares the talent of local artists. There are no fossil fuels used at ILLA, the kitchen is entirely electric-powered, water is heated with heat pump technology, no second use plastics and many other features are in place to reduce the hotels impact on the environment and respect of the local culture.
Ines Restaurant – A Culinary Journey
The hotel is home to the renowned Ines restaurant, where Chef Juan Carlos Donoso rescues and revives Grandmother recipes from across Ecuador. This homage to traditional cuisine is presented with a contemporary twist, highlighting the richness and diversity of Ecuadorian culinary heritage. Guests can indulge in dishes that bring history and tradition to life with every bite.
The NEST Project
A standout feature of ILLA Experience Hotel is the NEST project, which nurtures young culinary talent from around Ecuador. This initiative brings together aspiring chefs to learn, create, and innovate under the mentorship of experienced professionals. Guests can interact with these young talents, gaining insight into the future of Ecuadorian cuisine while enjoying their innovative dishes.
Additional Amenities
In addition to these unique experiences, the hotel offers a wine cellar where tastings can be arranged, a newly added pool for relaxation, and an expanded spa area for post-sightseeing pampering. The rooftop bar provides stunning views of the iconic Panecillo mountain, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Quito.
