Las Cuevas de Alvaro

Here's an odd one: created by Ecuadorian eccentric Alvaro Bustamente, 'Alvaro's Caves' were excavated by hand from a grassy hill in the middle of nowhere. Eventually, they became a series of caves joined by underground passageways. God knows why Alvaro built this structure - something about 'man's ties and dependence on the land,' but they've been turned into a seven-room underground hotel. The restaurant serves delicious homemade food (around US$17 for nonguests).

The grounds have a children's play area, an artificial lake and lookout towers, and horseback riding and hiking are available. It's about 32km (one hour) east of Quito.