Ahh Vilcabamba, the valley of longevity, and our last major destination in E
cuador. With it I´ve noticed a trend in Ecuadorian tourist destinations: Small town nestled into a green valley, surrounded by mountains and rolling hills, with heaps of vegetarian eateries, and ample opportunities for day excursions and inexpensive massages. I couldn´t wait to leave.
Rosa and I decided to spoil ourselves by staying at Izhcayluma, a hotel lodgish place, perched on a hill overlooking the town. A wonderful place if you´re in the neighborhood, offering up hiking maps and resort style services - best part was definitely the enormous chess board.
The first day in town was spent galloping on horseback up surprisingly steep and forested terrain, with many a large spider, thorny brush, and poorly located cliff. Despite the trials of the trails, the saddle sores, and Rosa falling off the horse (that part was less than idyllic) it was an exhilarating and beautiful experience.
The following day we were sore from the ride but decided to explore one of the numerous hiking trails that had been created and marked by our hotel. The hike was interesting, gorgeous all while being delightfully straight forward. This is why we were surprised when we realized that we had taken a wrong turn and were an hour or so into our mishap. Our merry three hour hike quickly turned into a six hour fight against dehydration and overexposure, but at least the stunning views and giant spiders kept us company.
Note to self: Take a left at the water tanks.
cuador. With it I´ve noticed a trend in Ecuadorian tourist destinations: Small town nestled into a green valley, surrounded by mountains and rolling hills, with heaps of vegetarian eateries, and ample opportunities for day excursions and inexpensive massages. I couldn´t wait to leave.Rosa and I decided to spoil ourselves by staying at Izhcayluma, a hotel lodgish place, perched on a hill overlooking the town. A wonderful place if you´re in the neighborhood, offering up hiking maps and resort style services - best part was definitely the enormous chess board.
The first day in town was spent galloping on horseback up surprisingly steep and forested terrain, with many a large spider, thorny brush, and poorly located cliff. Despite the trials of the trails, the saddle sores, and Rosa falling off the horse (that part was less than idyllic) it was an exhilarating and beautiful experience.
The following day we were sore from the ride but decided to explore one of the numerous hiking trails that had been created and marked by our hotel. The hike was interesting, gorgeous all while being delightfully straight forward. This is why we were surprised when we realized that we had taken a wrong turn and were an hour or so into our mishap. Our merry three hour hike quickly turned into a six hour fight against dehydration and overexposure, but at least the stunning views and giant spiders kept us company.Note to self: Take a left at the water tanks.
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