CASA VICTORIA PiJAO

The hospitality was the best I’ve had on my travels.

I had limited knowledge of this hostel as I didn't really read the reviews, but only knew that the location seemed fine and the price was reasonable, also the photos showed a simple set up which I was happy with. Its fair to say I could have stayed in Pijao longer just to stay at Casa Victoria! This place is solely owned by Doña Luz who treats you as a friend/family member. Luz is the most wonderful genuine person who gets so much joy from having guests stay with her. I spent so much time chatting to her whilst she cooked and made coffee in the kitchen. And the kitchen needs to be mentioned here because the view from kitchen/living room is just spectacular and its not shown in any of the photos. Birds visit whilst you sit and drink coffee. It was a very peaceful and beautiful way to wake up in the morning. Nos vemos la proxima año Luz para comer pan de masa madre :D

Luz, the host, is lovely, friendly and helpful. A terrace opens to a hillside view of beautiful flora and birds that come to feed on a shelf in front of you. A nice place to meet other travelers.

Noise from the street at times.

Luz is a helpful, fun host. The open "balcony" has a great view. The rooms, doors, and overall place are different than your standard spot; for example, a broken-off plastic clothes hanger piece is the lock on the bathroom door. The building is on the way into town from Armenia and then on the way out if you are returning there.

For some people, it may be cumbersome to have to ring a doorbell to get in and also to wait to be let out so the door can be locked behind you. Also, there are multiple security cameras on the premises, but there was no lock for my bedroom door.

Brilliant hostel with lovely family feel - each morning I was made a different breakfast, each of which were fantastic. Owner really useful when recommending and organising things to do in the area.

Host very helpful but just ask her to speak slowly if you're not a native speaker! Old-school small, friendly hostel with small sociable area with hammock and games. Very secure and main door always locked and monitored.

Not much to do in Pijao (and the one restaurant open for dinner is not very good!), although host was very helpful with finding walking routes. Cooking facilities very limited.