This beachfront property lies on the outskirts of Puerto Villamil on the volcanic island of Isabela. Surrounded by wetlands and facing a gloriously long and sandy beach, the hotel is named after the marine iguanas who can be seen crossing the road from their swampy lagoon homes over to the shoreline. Boasting stark minimalist architecture, the building was created by local craftsman using native materials, in keeping with the hotel’s philosophy of sustainability. Floor-to-ceiling windows make the most of the glorious ocean views, while the wooden deck, infinity pool and white cushioned daybeds, give the hotel a South Beach Miami vibe.
The service is friendly and attentive, while interiors are all clean lines and shades of white, with colour accents and dark furniture to provide contrast and texture. The 14 rooms and suites are spacious, simply but comfortably furnished, with ensuite bathrooms, Wi-Fi, cable TV, climate control, minibar, fridge and safe. Bathrooms feature water saving eco-showers. Choose from an ocean view or rooms overlooking the Sierra Negra Volcano. Both Volcano and Ocean View rooms can be configured with large twin beds for families. Suites include large furnished balconies, comfortable seating, and small dining area.
A buffet breakfast is included in the room rate and guests can dine at the onsite Isabela Island Restaurant on local cuisine including shrimp or fish ceviche and sancocho, an authentic Ecuadorian fish soup. Many of the fruit and vegetables used, are grown at the property’s hacienda, while the seafood is fresh catch-of-the-day fare, and the bread is baked daily. The main hotel bar is found in the comfortable lounge area.
Outside there is a spacious deck with comfortable daybeds surrounding a small mosaic-tiled infinity pool, along with spectacular ocean views. Guests can also enjoy the views from the rooftop terrace and bar which features a hot tub, while massages can be arranged either in-room or on the beach.
The hotel has a range of land and sea-based activities for guests to enjoy. These include snorkelling tips to both The Tunnels and Las Tintoreras, and the opportunity to swim and snorkel alongside sea turtles, penguins, sea lions, reef sharks, rays, and marine iguanas. Overhead watch out for albatross, blue-footed boobies, and frigates. Land excursions include trips to the active Sierra Negra Volcano, which has the world’s second largest caldera, a trip to a giant tortoise conservation centre and a chance to see the Wall of Tears and learn something of the island’s history as a former penal colony. There’s also the opportunity to visit the Cuevas de Sucre, a spectacular series of lava caves and tunnels covered in golden vegetation, which gives the impression of being in a gold mine.