Vilcabamba, the valley of longevity

The commanding view of the valley from our lodge

They say it is the valley of longevity. They say it is not uncommon that people here live to be 100. These claims have been taken seriously enough for an array of prestigious international universities to carry out studies here. The last study was commissioned by the Ecuadorian government itself. The main take outs were that there is a unique quantity and in an optimum proportion of minerals here in the water and in the soil which in fine passes through to the fruits and vegetables eaten by the local population. This acts as the perfect anti oxidant. And the fact that the climate remains almost unchanged 365 days a year plays an important role on the human organism.

Our lodge

Anyway we included this magic place in our itinerary with the firm intention of doing absolutely nooooothing. Our hostel is a piece of paradise perched on the hillside overlooking the valley. A dozen small lodges are peppered all over the huge property. And they have done some spectacular work with the landscaping and the gardens are beautiful.













There is a spa center, a small cozy swimming pool, a huge collection of DVDs, books, comfortable hammocks, a pool table and a bar that serves cheap cocktails.

Part of the garden

The breakfast is to die for : freshly sliced sweet pineapples, papayas and watermelon, thick fruit juices blended à la minute, home-made German style dark bread (the owners, Peter and Dieter, are German), artisanal pineapple and raspberry jams and home grown coffee. To that you add either eggs (from the farm of course) or a huge pancake.

The perfect recipe : good rum and a hammock

Dinner is of equal measure : the chef is brilliant. She lovingly prepares colourful and tasty meals. The portions would make a professional rugby player have trouble finishing. But as I am rather competitive, I take up the challenge as often as I can !

On top of that the staff is friendly and we feel like at home.

Roxana showing off her skills during a pool competition

Roxana looking confident before the ride

So we book a horse riding trip, apparently the best way to discover the valley. Despite being inexperienced the guide reassures us and chooses tame horses for us. We go through the vales, cross rivers, gallop on dirt trails and just enjoy the nature and fresh air. What a great idea that was ! 

Coming back to the Hostel we succumb to the temptation of a full body massage. One and a half hour of exquisite pampering. Right on time for dinner and some excellent Chilean wine. 

On the pamphlet of this hostel it is written : "Relax, Enjoy and forget time ..." and that's exactly what happened to us here. We are sad to leave, but with our batteries recharged we are ready for new adventures ... Peru and the Incas, here we come !

Make no mistake - it's hard work !

Sunbathing