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19TH Century Charm
The passage of time rewards those buildings that proudly carry on their traditions and breeding. However, time is also a merciless judge so, without discarding the past, cautious modernization is required for continued existence in the future.
The Carlota Boutique Hotel is located in the heart of colonial downtown Quito. It´s a 19th century building that has undergone a complete renovation without losing its historical ambiance, just a few steps away from Carondelet (the Presidential palace) and the Archbishopric´s palace, as well as Quito´s most renowned churches such as La Compañía, San Francisco, El Sagrario, Santo Domingo, La Merced, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Basilica of the National Vows.
The facade has retained that imposing presence characteristic of the era. At the entrance, a charming Spanish gallery surrounding the typical central patio welcomes the visitors and carries them into a 21st century lobby decorated with materials and details from the original structure.
The hotel was named to honor the memory of Carlota Echeverría de Moreno, a distinguished lady who purchased the property in 1966 and lived there for more than forty years. The walls of the hotel can tell many a tale and its stories are now the stuff of legends, but the truth is that Quito´s colonial downtown is fortunate that this old jewel was converted into an exclusive and innovative hotel, fully up to 21st century standards.
As expected with any renovation that wishes to last well into the future, the Carlota Hotel applies high standards to ensure minimal environmental impact. It will be the first hotel in Ecuador to receive the LEED certification awarded by the US Green Building Council in recognition of its sustainable and environmentally friendly policies.
Solar energy generated by the hotel provides some 30% of its energy consumption. Recycling of gray water from showers for use in toilets saves 50% of fresh water usage. Other green policies include low water toilets, construction materials with recycled components and LED lighting.
Each and every one of the Carlota Hotel´s twelve suites is distinct in terms of size, layout and interior design. They are named after local birds. The “Brujo (witch) Loft” relates to the Brujo bird with brilliant red plumage. The “Esmeralda Loft” recalls the Esmeralda hummingbird with striking green and turquoise colors. Other colorful names are Campanaria, Carpintero and Jilguero. From the balconies, guests can see the pedestrian traffic and feel the pulsating heart of the city.
The lounge is unexpectedly located on the hotel´s rooftop. Astonished guests can admire exquisite vistas from this height, particularly during summer days when Quito´s blue sky frames a statue of the Virgin that rises from the top of the Panecillo hill. The lounge is open every day for guests but visitors are allowed only from Thursday to Saturday between 5:30 and 12 pm.
La Cava, the wine lounge, is a more private, almost intimate, space. Time is well spent reading the fine wine list and discovering new vintages from different countries. La Cava is open from Thursday to Saturday from 5:30 to 12:00 pm, as well as by private requests or for occasional wine tastings.
No better place to rest and relax than the reading and movie lounge, which also is the perfect place to savor afternoon tea accompanied by exquisite homemade pastries.
The Urban Garden is one of the hotel´s very special areas. Fruit trees and medicinal herbs are organically grown to provide the hotel with fresh produce that is transformed into sensational dishes at the Bistro restaurant, open daily from 11 am to 7 pm, and for guests only from 7 to 10 pm.
The Carlota hotel is a distinct experience, where history is respectfully remembered while the future is responsibly planned.
Felipe Moscoso, Chef
