For our luxury hotel of the month for July, we have chosen the unique Finch Bay Eco-Hotel in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Combining all the luxuries of modern travel with a deep sensitivity and respect for the fragile eco-system which it inhabits, Finch Bay is one of our favourite land-based options in the archipelago.
A bucket-list trip for any wildlife-lover, a trip to the Galapagos Islands is a magical experience. From the unique behaviours of the species that call these isles home, to the magnificent volcanic landscapes of the main islands, the archipelago is truly unique. For those with unsteady sea legs who would rather not stay on a ship, Finch Bay – a proud member of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World – is a fabulous option. Well-located, stylish and offering a variety of activities; the full Galapagos experience can be had here in the utmost luxury.
How to Get There
Finch Bay is located on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos, near to Puerto Ayora, the island’s main settlement. The archipelago is accessed via a short flight from either Quito or Guayaquil, the two main cities on the Ecuadorian mainland – flights last around 2 hours from Guayaquil and 3 hours 30 minutes from Quito. Flights from Quito often touch down in Guayaquil before continuing on to the islands.
Upon arrival at the airport in Baltra (GPS), a land transfer of approximately one hour is required to reach Finch Bay.
Rooms
Boasting 21 standard rooms and 6 luxurious Finch Bay suites, the hotel’s interior is decorated in an airy neutral palette, designed by top Ecuadorian designer Julio Vinueza who wished to pay homage to the crisp and peaceful tones of the region’s spectacular nature. The Finch Bay suites all offer breath-taking ocean views and spacious private balconies equipped with hammocks for blissful outdoor relaxation. Each standard room has access to shared porches or balconies with their own hammocks. All rooms and suites have private baths with hot-water showers, hair dryers and other organic amenities (such as biodegradable soap and shampoo) that ensure that the hotel pays the utmost respect to its pristine environment.
Food & Drink
Offering a varied cuisine based largely on the bounty of the region’s ocean, Finch Bay’s hotel kitchens are an innovative and modern gastronomic laboratory. Traditional Ecuadorian flavours are combined with avant-garde cooking techniques and international influences to create a menu that enraptures the taste buds.
All of the menu’s seafood products are sustainably sourced and many ingredients are grown organically in the hotel’s own vegetable and herb garden to guarantee both the highest quality of produce and the freshest possible flavours. Lighter and healthier options are available at every meal for the health-conscious and the restaurant goes to great lengths to offer enticing dishes to accommodate specialist dietary requirements too.
Breakfast consists of a delicious buffet of American, European and Ecuadorian classics, along with a varied menu of a la carte eggs. Lunch is also a refined, but casual affair serving beachside favourites inspired by the Pacific Ocean such as ceviche, pastas and other crowd-pleasing favourites. For the evening meal, a more elaborate offering is available, and the hotel’s expert chefs showcase their quality ingredients using a variety of innovative gastronomical techniques alongside the gentle soundtrack of the breaking waves and a backdrop of a crystal-clear starlit sky.
Outstanding Feature
Finch Bay’s minimally invasive architecture pays the utmost respect to its unique surroundings and the location of this luxury retreat is unparalleled. Finch Bay is the only beachfront hotel in Puerto Ayora and thus guests can enjoy sweeping ocean views from the hotel pool.
Best For
Travellers who want to experience the magic of the Galapagos but who have unsteady sea legs and would rather stick to the land-based options. Finch Bay also works as a fantastic option for people who wish to combine an active cruise with a more relaxed land-based stay. For divers required to spend a night on land before flying onward to their next destination, this stylish hotel is the best of the best.
Must Do Activity
Head out on the hotel’s own yacht, The Sea Lion, for a day of island hopping around the central part of the archipelago. There are limited spaces on the boat, so this is best to book in advance if you can. Several of the archipelago’s most famous species can be spotted on the central islands surrounding Finch Bay, including many species that make up the Galapagos Big 15.
Are you planning a trip to the Galapagos? Learn more about the region by clicking here and visit our Finch Bay page for more information on the hotel. Contact us today to begin designing your bespoke holiday with our travel specialists.