We are world travelers from Chicago, IL USA and wanted to experience Ecuador before going on our Galapagos Islands trip through Celebrity XPedition and wow, did we find it! From the extremely organized pick-up from the crazy airport, to the drive there up to the hotel later in the evening, it was tough to navigate through the vortex of clouds climbing into the mountains. When arriving we entered into our own amazing world of mountain top bliss in the clouds. They waited for us, served us dinner and off to bed for one of the best, most restful nights sleep ever. Then heaven turned the lights on early in the morning, the bed over-looks the rim of the crater,and all you see if the blue sky filled with fine mist flowing over the hotel. We went to breakfast everyday, included in our stay, the views from the table are through the roof and Roberto our server was delightful. The hotel itself is all designed in native woods, rocks, feng shui decorated, direct tv, internet access(like you even want to use it), and linens so soft.
Needless to say, we had a wonderful time and the hotel exceeded our expectations, the price is so reasonable and a brand new spa is opening in March 2012 so we will definitely be returning soon. A must i to do a horse-back riding tour down into the crater about 4-5 hours, 5+km, runs about $40/person and the guide os wonderful handpicked by the owner.
We love and miss Francisco, both of them, you need any help please ask me. We will be back many, many times!

My wife and I spent 6 days at this magical mountain retreat. El Crater is beautifully nestled in the mountains providing views of the majestic crater of the Pululahua volcano as well as the vibrant city of Quito. The service is world class and the rooms are large and comfortable with floor to ceiling window views. The hotel is an architectural marvel. The hotel grounds house a wonderful collection of environmental sculptures. The rooms and restaurant are decorated with original works of art by local artists giving the hotel a uniquely Ecuadorian aesthetic.

The restaurant is beautiful with its amazing views and delicious cuisine. El Creater is truly a paradise. As one reviewer mentioned the fog can be thick at times. However, this only adds to the mountain charm as the fog is mysterious and romantic. Its moves quickly in and out of the valley and gives way to stunning views. You will have no shortage of prime picture taking opportunities!

El Crater provides all of the creature comforts and service reserved for 4 star hotels in this enchanted and awe inspiring country. We cannot recommend El Crater enough for a truly romantic get away or as a great home base while exploring the vibrant city of Quito and beyond.

We cannot wait to return. 5 stars for El Crater!

The setting is beautiful and the rooms are really cool with great views. The staff are friendly and helpful and the food is good value for money. Overall a great experience. The only downside is that when the clouds roll in you can't see much and there isn't all that much to do in the surrounding area. However, it is definitely a great place to stay for a night or two and is not that far from Quito city by car.

I fell in love with this hotel. Stayed with some friends for 5 days and really got to enjoy the best of Quito. The rooms were truly comfortable and the service was awesome. I would highlight its location: you get to appreciate the crater of the Pululahua volcano and on the other side you have a great view of Quito (just amazing at night!). If you want to hit the restaurant you should definitely try the traditional locro soup and the shrimp ceviche. Next time I go to Quito I will stay at the Crater Hotel for sure.