Timepieces Travel NOVEMBER JUNE 2016 2016 : ISSUE : ISSUE 61 66
10 journeys by jet
Mashpi Lodge, AIR
Ecuador
S
ometimes, you can whisk yourself away to a setting just by uttering evocative words associated with the destination: ‘cloudforest’, ‘pumas padding through the jungle’, ‘500 species of birds fluttering through the tree canopies’, ‘waterfalls between dramatic, verdant hills’… Daydreams, though, are a disservice to this immersive place; 900m above sea level, the luxury amidst nature must be imbibed to be fully appreciated. The sustainability-sensitive lodge, located three hours from the capital city of Quito, is a five-star cocoon that is a member of National Geographic’s prestigious Unique Lodges of the World collective. Foremost, you’ll be be drawn here by the fascinating flora and fauna, and there are copious ways to admire it, both on ground and on high. The latest experiential sensation to be unveiled is the Dragonfly canopy gondola: glide silently along a 2km cable-driven system that affords a captivating bird’s-eye view from 200m above the 1,300 hectare reserve. At the top of the 26m-high Observation Tower, the reward is a breathtaking panorama.
If you can tear yourself away from the wonders of the great outdoors, you’ll retreat to one of 22 handsome abodes that comprise three Yaku suites and 19 Wayra rooms; they’d command centre stage, were it not for the awe-inspiring biodiversity on the doorstep. Also in-property is a wellness area, where patrons can indulge in specialised treatments that use organic products taken from the natural surrounds. Then, when hunger for exploration is outdone by appetite for fine fare, the dining room harbours an exquisite selection of local cuisine with distinct forest inspiration, as chefs weave dishes with regional ingredients. Mashpi Lodge delivers a formidable sojourn, and following this enchanting Ecuadorian exploit, every subsequent wisp of cool air upon the skin is certain to bring those mountain memories drifting back. Quito International Airport hosts arrivals by private jet; Mashpi’s location is remote, and the land inbetween is either rainforest or small villages, which makes for a visually enriching three-hour drive from the airport; mashpilodge.com 94