Hostería Durán Thermal Spa
Relax in warm thermal waters at Hostería Durán, a tranquil inn offering a spa, outdoor hot spring pool, and restaurant.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxation
Hostería Durán Thermal Spa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Relax in warm thermal waters at Hostería Durán, a tranquil inn offering a spa, outdoor hot spring pool, and restaurant.
"A super chill, relaxing place with great thermal pools, just remember to bring your own towel!"
Bring Your Own Towel & Cap
Avoid high purchase fees! Towels are $14.50, caps $2.00. Pack them from home! :beachwithumbrella:
Weekday Visits for Peace
Go early on weekdays for a more laid-back experience with fewer people. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Thermal Hot Springs
Main Pool Area
Immerse yourself in naturally heated waters for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.
Cold Plunge Pool
Adjacent to Hot Springs
Invigorate your senses with a bracing dip in the cold plunge pool for a refreshing contrast.
Turkish Steam Bath
Spa Facilities
Unwind and detoxify in the soothing, humid environment of the Turkish steam bath.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pack Smart for Your Spa Day
Understand Day Pass Inclusions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Towel & Cap
Avoid high purchase fees! Towels are $14.50, caps $2.00. Pack them from home! :beachwithumbrella:
Weekday Visits for Peace
Go early on weekdays for a more laid-back experience with fewer people. :clock1:
Confirm Mud Bath Availability
An advertised 'hot mud bath' might not be easy to find. Check on arrival. :mag:
Family-Friendly, But Watch Toddlers
It's family-friendly, but there's no separate toddler area. Keep little ones in the shallow pool. :baby:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Towel & Cap
Avoid high purchase fees! Towels are $14.50, caps $2.00. Pack them from home! :beachwithumbrella:
Weekday Visits for Peace
Go early on weekdays for a more laid-back experience with fewer people. :clock1:
Confirm Mud Bath Availability
An advertised 'hot mud bath' might not be easy to find. Check on arrival. :mag:
Family-Friendly, But Watch Toddlers
It's family-friendly, but there's no separate toddler area. Keep little ones in the shallow pool. :baby:
Enjoy the On-Site Restaurant
The restaurant offers good food, including a 'Menu del Dia' that's better than typical local lunches. :forkandknife:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Hostería Durán Thermal Spa for its relaxing thermal pools and steam bath, offering a great value day pass. However, many note the inconvenience and high cost of purchasing essential items like towels and swim caps on-site, and some find the main thermal pool less intensely hot than expected.
"I don't know about the rooms. I only come here for the thermals, cold plunge, steam room. There are two different locations. I enjoy the more laid back one and its only 8$ for a pass, and you can stay as long as you want. Lockers are free. Go early and on weekdays if you want it less busy."
Travis Rose
"The required me to check in and name all the people and kids I was checking in with and yet they couldn't give me extra towels for my kids. The night I checked in they gave me milk for the baby for his bottle and the next day they refused to give me milk they said I had to pay $2 a cup because of inventory purposes. I paid the same at a luxury hotel Oro Verde in Cuenca and received 10 times better service. TV had limited channels"
Beatriz Guaman
"REVIEW IS ONLY FOR THE THERMAL SPA:
Reception: ⭐️
Thermal Bath Facilities: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Food quality: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Food Service: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Eatery/Restaurant ambience: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
RECEPTION:
- the staff are friendly BUT THEY DO NOT DISCLOSE ALL FEES EXPECTED 🫤🫤🫤🫤🫤.
👎👎👎👎👎 They DO NOT PROVIDE TOWELS (or even rent them out). THEY SELL THEM FOR $14.50, an excessive price for a poor quality towel.
👎👎👎👎👎 They also DO NOT PROVIDE SPA CAPS that they require. THEY SELL IT FOR $2.00.
* It might be worth pointing out that towels and caps are standard of any spa. This place “prides” itself as a spa. Since they obviously DO NOT provide them, THESE SHOULD DISCLOSED AT RECEPTION AND IN THE WEBSITE🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬.
SPA FACILITIES: OVERALL VERY AVERAGE despite the seemingly large area the entire establishment is built on.
😑😑😑 The main thermal pool feels more like a heated swimming pool rather than a hotspring pool.
* the hotspring water supply is very weak, the “spa-heat” is felt only about 2-3 feet from the supply at one corner of the shallow end of the pool
- it’s Family friendly spa 👍 BUT there is NOT A SEPARATE AREA FOR CHILDREN ESPECIALLY TODDLERS 🫤🫤🫤.
- for safety, children especially toddlers should be localized to the shallow circular pool adjoining the main pool.
👍 The HOT-COLD soaking pools are quite good. THE HOT one is a true hotspring pool at 42-degC.
👍 Nice Turkish (steam) bath.
🫤 There is NO dry sauna.
🤬🤬🤬 There’s an advertised “hot mud bath” on the premises BUT nowhere to be found.
👍 Lockers provided as well men’s and women’s changing rooms.
FOOD:
👍 There’s a nice eatery/restaurant on site, which appears to have a reasonable dining menu.
👍 There’s a Menu del Dia as part of one of the Day-use service. The food is better the usual Almuerzo or Comida Tipica.
👍 There’s a separate snack bar by the main pool."
A V (globetrotter)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hostería Durán is located near Cuenca, Ecuador. Many visitors opt for a taxi or a pre-arranged shuttle service for convenience. Public buses are also an option, though they may take longer. Check local transport apps or ask your accommodation for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.
Yes, parking is generally available for visitors. It's advisable to arrive a bit earlier if you're driving, especially during peak times, to secure a spot.
For a day trip from Cuenca, taking a taxi is a popular and efficient choice. It offers flexibility and direct transport. Alternatively, inquire about local tour operators who might offer packages including transport.
Consider using ride-sharing apps available in Cuenca for a straightforward journey. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip to avoid any surprises.
Hostería Durán is located a short drive from Cuenca's city center, typically around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A day pass for the thermal spa typically costs around $8-$10 USD, which allows you to stay as long as you like. This price often includes access to the thermal pools, cold plunge, and steam room.
While advance booking isn't always mandatory, it's recommended, especially for weekends or holidays, to ensure entry. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival.
The spa facilities generally operate during daylight hours, often from morning until early evening. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current operating hours.
Be aware that towels and spa caps are not provided and must be purchased separately for a significant fee ($14.50 for towels, $2.00 for caps). This is a common point of feedback from visitors.
Yes, Hostería Durán offers day passes specifically for access to its thermal spa facilities, even if you are not a hotel guest.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
The spa offers thermal hot spring pools, a cold plunge pool, and a Turkish steam bath. Some reviews mention an advertised 'hot mud bath' that may not always be accessible. Lockers are provided.
The spa is family-friendly, but there isn't a separate area for toddlers. Children are generally directed to the shallow circular pool adjacent to the main pool for safety.
Towels and swim caps are not provided and cannot be rented. They are available for purchase at a high price ($14.50 for towels, $2.00 for caps), so it's highly recommended to bring your own.
The main thermal pool is heated, though some visitors feel it's more like a warm swimming pool. However, the dedicated hot-cold soaking pools offer a true hot spring experience, with the hot one reaching around 42°C (107.6°F).
Yes, there are men's and women's changing rooms, and free lockers are provided for your belongings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant on-site offering a reasonable dining menu. They also provide a 'Menu del Dia' as part of some day-use services, which is generally well-regarded.
The restaurant serves a variety of dishes. The 'Menu del Dia' is often highlighted as being better than typical local almuerzos or comidas típicas. There's also a snack bar by the main pool.
Besides the main restaurant, a snack bar is available by the pool for lighter options or quick refreshments.
One reviewer noted being initially given milk for a baby's bottle upon check-in, but was later refused more milk and told to pay $2 per cup due to inventory. It's best to bring your own baby supplies.
While specific prices aren't detailed, the 'Menu del Dia' is mentioned as a good value. The overall dining experience is rated positively by reviewers.
📸 📸 Photography
The outdoor hot spring pool with surrounding greenery offers beautiful shots, especially during golden hour. The architecture of the hostería itself can also be picturesque.
Generally, yes, but be mindful of other guests' privacy. Focus on the scenic views and the relaxing atmosphere rather than close-ups of people.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is sufficient for most shots. If you plan on taking photos in the steam room, a waterproof camera or a phone in a waterproof case is advisable.
While not explicitly stated, it's always good practice to be respectful of others. Avoid intrusive photography, especially in changing areas or if guests appear uncomfortable.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for more serene and visually appealing photographs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan your visit for weekdays to enjoy a less crowded atmosphere, making it easier to manage children. The warm thermal waters can be a soothing experience for kids after a day of exploring Cuenca. Ensure constant supervision, especially in the main pools, to guarantee a fun and safe outing for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for the 'Menu del Dia' at the on-site restaurant for a cost-effective and satisfying meal. Traveling during weekdays can also help avoid potential weekend price increases or higher crowd density. This spa provides a great value for a relaxing experience without breaking the bank.
🧘 Solo Travelers Seeking Relaxation
Bring a good book or simply enjoy the quiet ambiance. The on-site restaurant provides a convenient option for a solo meal without needing to leave the premises. It's an ideal spot to de-stress, recharge, and enjoy some personal time in a natural setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thermal Experience: What to Expect
The spa also features a Turkish steam bath, which is well-regarded for its relaxing and detoxifying properties. However, it's important to note that a dry sauna is not available. While an advertised 'hot mud bath' is mentioned, its accessibility can be inconsistent, so it's wise to inquire upon arrival.
For those seeking a more invigorating experience, the cold plunge pool offers a sharp contrast to the warm waters. This combination of hot and cold therapies is a hallmark of many thermal spas and can provide numerous health benefits. Remember to stay hydrated and listen to your body during your spa session.
Navigating Fees and Amenities
This lack of provision and high cost for basic spa necessities is a recurring theme in reviews. To avoid unexpected expenses and ensure a comfortable experience, it is strongly advised to bring your own towels and swim caps from home. This simple preparation can significantly enhance your visit and prevent frustration.
Beyond towels and caps, lockers are provided free of charge, which is a convenient amenity. The restaurant also offers a 'Menu del Dia' which is considered a good value. Always clarify what is included in your day pass and what incurs additional costs before your visit to manage expectations effectively.
Family Considerations at the Spa
For safety reasons, it's recommended that children, especially toddlers, utilize the shallow circular pool that is adjacent to the main thermal pool. This designated area allows younger guests to enjoy the water in a more controlled and secure environment.
While the spa offers a relaxing experience for adults, the lack of a specialized children's zone means parents will need to actively supervise their little ones. The overall atmosphere is generally relaxed, but the absence of a dedicated kids' area is a point to consider for families with very young children.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit