Ecuador: Luna Runtun – The Adventure Spa
The nice folks who run the exotic Luna Runtun Spa in Baños, Ecuador, have succeeded in combining Ecuador’s stunning natural resources, Ecuadorian friendliness and charm, and efficient Swiss management to create a spa like no other: Luna Runtun – The Adventure Spa. It was back in 1993 that Olivier Christophe Currat, a native of Switzerland and graduate of the prestigious Lausanne Hotelschool, moved to Baños with his Ecuadorian wife Carmen and laid the foundations for Luna Runtun.
By April of 1994, the resort was complete, 35 staff members had been hired and the doors were opened to eco and adventure tourists from around the globe. Luna Runtun is located about 4 miles outside of Baños on the slopes of the restless Tungurahua volcano, and it is Ecuador’s “Black Giant” that is the focus of much of the activity around the spa. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking on mountain trails that offer a spectacular view of the smoking mountain and the verdant surrounding valleys. Back at the spa, guests can partake of natural hot spring waters in baths topped with local rose petals, body treatments using volcanic ash, and all manner of pampering from the skilled staff. After hiking the steep and scenic trails, what could be better than enjoying a relaxing massage and a delicious dinner with friends?
By American standards, the prices are nothing short of miraculous with rates for overnight guests starting at a mere US$70 per room. Guests are greeted with a welcome cocktail, and dinner, breakfast and full use of the sauna are all included in the rate. Often, visitors to Luna Runtun will stay at one of the fine hotels in Baños and visit the spa for a day. Baños has been a popular travel destination since colonial times, as it offers easy access by road and rail to the incredibly beautiful scenery of the Ecuadorian Sierra region. Pleasant weather all year and the distinctive charm of the local people will have you coming back for more!
