Fodor's Expert Review Arashá Rain Forest Resort & Spa

Two hours northwest of Quito sits this all-inclusive hotel with colorfully painted two-bedroom thatch-roof cottages scattered over the hillsides. On the cusp of a cloud forest, Arashá is 1,962 feet above sea level, with an average temperature of 76°F, and it takes on an ethereal appearance in the early morning as clouds cut the visibility to zero. More than 300 species of birds have been counted along the trails, rivers, and waterfalls. The spa has aromatherapy, moisturizing, facial, and stress-relief treatments. There's also a chocolate factory on-site, so you can see how chocolate is made from cocoa beans (kids love this). Rates include all meals, entertainment (including karaoke and movies), and tours; alcoholic beverages are extra.