Heading north from Montañita, you will pass through a series of isolated beaches and small fishing towns, with such names as Olón, San José, and Ayampe. These are great places to really get away from it all, though regular local buses running the coastal route make these spots easily accessible. Most of these beaches have one or two little hotels or miniresorts, either right on the sand, or up in the hills overlooking the action.
You might consider the following two inland options. Samai Retreat Spa & Hotel (tel. 04/2780-167; www.sacred-journey.com) specializes in spiritual and wellness retreats, while El Retiro (tel. 04/2399-213; www.elretiro.com.ec) focuses more on adventure activities, with a zip-line tour, trails, suspended-bridge walkways, a climbing wall, and horses.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
