Apartment

Casa Bella Mia. This Inviting, Spacious Flat With Lush Garden Awaits You!

Photo gallery for Casa Bella Mia. This Inviting, Spacious Flat With Lush Garden Awaits You!

A garden with a brick wall, a white chair, and a table under a tree.
A modern kitchen with a central island, stainless steel appliances, and a potted plant.
A living room with a purple sofa, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a kitchen area with shelves and decorative plates.
A wooden door with a metal handle, flanked by two windows with metal grilles.
A view through a wire fence into a backyard with a lawn, a table, and a potted plant.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Firepit available
    One of the few properties with a dedicated outdoor firepit.

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub on site
  • Patio
  • Dog-friendly
  • Barbecue grill
  • Refrigerator
  • Internet

Explore the area

View in a map
Cuenca, Azuray
  • Place, Mall del Rio
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Galeria FVega
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Pista De Bicicross Bmx Cuenca
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Airport, Cuenca (CUE-Mariscal Lamar)
    ‪22 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

Master Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden

Add dates for prices

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  • Washer
  • Dryer
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10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (55 reviews)
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About the neighborhood

Cuenca

Located in Cuenca, this apartment is in the city center and on a river. Mall del Rio and Plaza Rotary Market are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore El Cajas National Park and Calderon Park. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Pista De Bicicross Bmx Cuenca or Alejandro Serrano Aguilar Stadium. Fishing and swimming offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain biking and horse riding nearby.
View more Apartments in CuencaOpens in a new window
Map
Cuenca, Azuray

What's nearby

  • Mall del Rio - 7 min drive - 2.3 km
  • Galeria FVega - 8 min drive - 2.3 km
  • Pista De Bicicross Bmx Cuenca - 8 min drive - 2.3 km
  • Calderon Park - 13 min drive - 3.8 km
  • New Cathedral of Cuenca - 15 min drive - 3.8 km

Getting around

  • Rio Yanuncay Tram Station - 5 min walk
  • Luis Cordero (Hermano Miguel) Station - 14 min drive
  • Cuenca (CUE-Mariscal Lamar) - 24 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Anubis Restaurant - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪El Gran Asador - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪El Arriero - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪El Huerto - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Chill & Grill SteakHouse + Bistro Bar - ‬16 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Casa Bella Mia. This Inviting, Spacious Flat With Lush Garden Awaits You! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Casa Bella Mia. This Inviting, Spacious Flat With Lush Garden Awaits You!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Casa Bella Mia. This Inviting, Spacious Flat With Lush Garden Awaits You!?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Casa Bella Mia. This Inviting, Spacious Flat With Lush Garden Awaits You! located?

Located in the heart of Cuenca, this apartment building is within 2 mi (3 km) of Galeria FVega, Pista De Bicicross Bmx Cuenca, and University of Cuenca's Orchid Garden. Museum of Extreme Art and Museum of Metals are also within 2 mi (3 km). Rio Yanuncay Tram Station is 5 minutes by foot and Yanuncay Tram Station is 7 minutes.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 54 out of 55 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 55 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 55 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 55 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 55 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful apartment

We absolutely loved everything about our January stay and are very happy that we will stay here through February!
Stayed 30 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 28, 2022
We too loved having you.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Exceptional hosts, comfortable space, wonderful proximity to nature

Our stay was made more comfortable and enjoyable by hosts Cheryl and Rex who went above and beyond helping us get taxi rides, organizing a driver to the national park, and informing us about free concerts and the best places to eat. We loved the beautiful, quiet garden, walking and biking the path beside beautiful River Yanukai, and the accessibility to the grocery store and the old city. From the well stocked kitchen to Cheryl and Alex’s hospitality, this spot enabled us to get the most out of Cuenca.
Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 6, 2020
Thank you Sharon, we enjoyed having you as guests and you are welcome back to Casa Bella Mia anytime. Safe travels, Rex and Cheryl
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Place to Stay

We loved this place in Cuenca. This property is loaded with every convenience. They even stocked our fridge with milk and eggs to start us out. The neighborhood is nice and quiet. The hosts are friendly and helpful and still very respectful of your privacy. It's a place we would come back to for sure if we come to Cuenca again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2020
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 6, 2020
Thanks Mary. We enjoyed having you stay with us and welcome you back anytime you are in Ecuador.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A true Cuenca gem.

Beautiful property, comes complete with hummingbirds. The kitchen is extremely well equipped, tastefully decorated and spacious. The owner is wonderful! Helpful and accommodating. I would definitely return.
Stayed 21 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing home away from home

Bella Mia is a spacious, well equipped and tastefully decorated apartment. Rex and Cheryl are always available for any help or advice you may need. There is a beautiful private garden for relaxing. The location is quiet and a bit outside the center. It is very easy to walk or take a bus ($0.30) or cab ($2-3) to the old center of town. This location in particular and Cuenca in general feels very safe. Whether alone or with another woman I was never fearful. I hope to return here in the future and highly recommend you include Bella Mia in your plans.
Stayed 14 nights in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 6, 2020
Beth, thank you for staying with us and for the glowing review. I apologize for not responding earlier. Please visit us again if you are in Cuenca. You were a wonderful guest. Best, Rex and Cheryl.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

The apartment is large, nicely decorated and equipped, and garden beautiful!

Hosts Rex and Cheryl “bent over backwards” to do anything to help us during our stay. My suitcase had been stolen before Cuenca and Cheryl had a closet of clothes out for me to wear! Rex took us to a clinic and stayed for hours when we needed him! Their role as hosts is really that of friends. It is easy to get everywhere and we hated to leave!! The apartment is an oasis of calm and beauty. Very highly recommended. Marg and Brian, Canada I
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 6, 2020
Marg, first let me apologize for not responding to your lovely review. We do try to go that extra mile for our guests and appreciate when it is acknowledged. Glad to know the little issue which took us to the clinic was minor. Best to your and Brian, Rex and Cheryl
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Cute, comfortable and quiet!

After a busy and noisy 9 days in Quito, this was just what we needed to relax and enjoy the slower pace of Cuenca. The apartment was exactly as described on VRBO and was perfect for our family of 5 (4 adults and 1 child). We had all the comforts and conveniences of home, plus a lovely garden in the back to kick back and enjoy the sunshine and a the birds. Rex and Cheryl were great hosts and were most helpful with recommending places to see, restaurant suggestions and transportation needs. The apartment is in a safe and clean neighborhood and only a block from a the river and a wonderful play park for kids to enjoy. Thank you again Rex and Cheryl for sharing your beautiful home!! We'll be back!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2016
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 28, 2022
I don't know how we missed this VERY flattering review. Thank you. We loved having you and look forward to your return, whenever that may be.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Casa Bella Mia

Casa Bella Mia was perfect for our stay, two couples, in Cuenca. Rex was incredibly easy to work with from the very beginning. He offered to help us find a driver. We had everything we needed to be comfortable. The washing machine and dryer are great. Lighting is excellent. The bed linens are the nicest we’ve had in a VRBO! And, the hair dryer is fabulous. The backyard is lovely and very peaceful. We even enjoyed avocados from their tree. The location is very convenient ; a short, inexpensive taxi ride to the center of town. Rex even provides little cards to help taxis find their way and he is also very willing to order a taxi for you. We were able to relax and watch a couple of movies on Netflix! What a treat after being out in the Galapagos. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Casa Bella Mia and highly recommend it.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2020
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 21, 2020
Thank you for the lovely review. We look forward to your return. Best wishes and stay safe during these challenging times.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gem in suburban neighborhood

This is a spacious and beautiful property with a lovely, flower-filled backyard. Well stocked, with every amenity you could need. Rex and Cheryl, our hosts who live upstairs, are very friendly and helpful, from loaning us Rex’s bike for the day to taking me to the doctor’s when I had a bad fall. We also loved their dog Pip, very friendly, and well trained to not come into the house. Two things to be aware of if you choose this property. One is that it is pretty far from the action of the old town if you wanted to walk, at least 45 minutes. Taking cabs is by far the best way to go and you can get to the old town in 10 to 15 minutes for about 2 to 3 dollars each way. The closest restaurant is about a 10 minute walk away, although there are a couple of small Tiendas closer. The other thing is that if you are using all three bedrooms, the smallest front room has no storage or place to put things. If those two aspects are not an issue, I would highly recommend Rex and Cheryl’s beautiful home.
Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Garden Paradise in Cuenca

What an amazing experience. Our stay at Rex & Cheryl's home was the perfect place for us. Location is within 10-15 of everything in Cuenca. The home is nicely appointed with comfortable furnishing and a fantastic kitchen. There is a covered patio and a beautiful outdoor back garden that was ideal for our little dog. I judge short term rentals on a few specific criteria; Is it well located, is it comfortable (bed, living room, dining area, does the kitchen have what I need to cook all meals, fast wifi, and a quality shower. Well I have to say all boxes were checked. One highlight, the shower may be one of the top 10 I have ever experienced, all the hot water you want combined with outstanding pressure. That gets high marks from this traveler. Rex and Cheryl were wonderful host. They advised when we asked, they were always available and even helped locate goods and services. Rex was kind enough to go shopping for fishing equipment with me and showed us the ropes on the bus system. When it was time to go home and we needed a Vet to certify our dog was free from Screwworm he accompanied me to the Vet. What amazing service! If you are looking for a large and convenient rental in Cuenca this is the one to reserve. Thank you Rex & Cheryl for everything. Rich & Lyv
Stayed 28 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 6, 2020
Rich, Thank you for the glowing review. We try to provide the best service we can. it was fun having the three of you. Pip especially enjoyed having Milo to play with. We always enjoy meeting new people (and animals) and sharing our love of our adopted city. Thank you for being special guests. Please come back and see us if you come this way again. Rex and Cheryl
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Casa Bella Mia

We had a great month stay at Rex and Cheryl's place. From the moment we walked inside, we felt at home! Their flat is clean, spacious, well furnished, and tastefully decorated. We enjoyed the short walk to the river for picnics and afternoon walks. Easy access to the Tranvia for rides into town was convenient and fun! Rex, Cheryl, and their dog Pip were gracious and helpful hosts. We will be telling our family and friends about Casa Bella Mia.
Stayed 31 nights in Aug 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful

Not only was the property itself roomy, clean, and very well-supplied, but the owners were exceedingly attentive and helpful in every way. They personally made my experience in Ecuador very special and very easy. I would highly recommend this property to anyone who doesn't want to be in the hub-bub of downtown.
Stayed 91 nights in May 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Muy Bien!

This is a wonderful property, very well-equipped and clean. It is really an advantage to have the property owners upstairs. They helped me with endless things during my stay, showed me how to get around, introduced me to other people, and helped me with my Spanish. They also became my new friends.
Stayed 30 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 28, 2022
We are loving having you for an extended stay.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Two Months In Cuenca, Ecuador

You cannot fly into Cuenca, Ecuador non-stop from another country. With that in mind, imagine you have spent many hours reaching Cuenca, plus a long taxi ride from the airport. At this point you may wonder if this will be worth the effort. For us, it was far more than merely worth the effort. My wife and I have lived in several apartments in at least four different countries during the past 10 years, and this is the best we have found. The host met us at the door and showed us a spotlessly clean apartment, fully furnished with all we needed for the next two months. They provided a book with maps and suggestions of places to go and things to do. The hosts (Rex and Cheryl) made themselves always available to us. The beds were very comfortable, exceeding our expectations, and we always slept well. Outside the kitchen door was a covered patio where we often had breakfast or dinner. The patio opened on a beautiful back yard with flowering plants on the walls, many different flowers, and a tree with a hummingbird feeder and filled with avocados. (Janet rates the avocados as “absolutely delicious.”) A block away is a walking trail along a beautiful river. The water is almost always perfectly clear and produces a soothing sound as it flows over the rocks. (There are three rivers in Cuenca and they join into one and flow to the Amazon). Park land was created on both sides of the river, and the park and trails extend for several miles. Eucalyptus trees (100 to 150 feet high) line the banks of the river and provide shade. Almost every day, we walked along the river. Several times, as we neared the end of our walk, we would stop and eat breakfast or lunch at La Yunta, a restaurant across the river from the apartment. The hosts were happy to provide information regarding the city including things to do, places to see, and wonderful restaurants. There is one more resident that must be mentioned. Her name is Pip. She is one of the most intelligent canines I have ever known. If you don’t like animals she will almost certainly leave you alone. But if you like dogs, as we do, she is absolutely delightful. She even seemed to learn our schedule. We usually sat on the patio with a glass of wine at 4 o’clock. Once when we were delayed, we found her at the back door looking very concerned that something might have happened to us. Lee and Janet
Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on May 21, 2022
Ahhhh. You guys are the greatest! Hope you did not return to freezing cold and snow. Miss you. Cheryl & Rex
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely the best!

The best rental and the best hosts we've ever had! The property was amazing and just as described. Great location just a block away from a river to take a morning walk. The hosts were the nicest, most communicative hosts. They provided us with a 40+ page information packet, answered all our questions, and were always available when we needed them. Highly recommend!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excelente casa

Muy bonita la casa, con todo lo necesario, con un bonito jardín amplio, ideal para relajarse o hacer una parrilla
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 26, 2021
Estimado Carlos, Muchas gracias por su comentario positivo acerca de Casa Bella Mia. Disfrutamos de que usted y su esposa se quedaran con nosotros.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfortable home in a quiet neighborhood

Almost wanted to call this place our own! The living space was very spacious and perfect for our needs. The yard was comforting and relaxing. Close to a Tranvia stop that'll take you to/from the airport and the downtown area. Rex was helpful and went over a few things with us when we arrived. Other than that, he gave us our privacy. I would definitely stay here again and recommend this home.
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 26, 2021
Thanks, Risa for the lovely review. We enjoyed having you and your friends. Best regards, Rex and Cheryl.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Impeccable experience in every way!

OMG did we love our stay! Beautiful, spacious, well-equipped and quiet (for Ecuador) apartment. The location was perfect for us, steps away from gorgeous, eucalyptus-scented river walks. Two blocks from scores of buses to everywhere (get the Moovit app!) and the fabulous new Tranvia Tram to downtown (or a cheap cab ride.). Rex and Cheryl are eager to assist with advice, fix-its and anything you require (like finding a bike rental place for us.) The outdoor space is gorgeous, Cheryl is an expert gardener and periodically surprised us with flower arrangements. We also made good use of the BBQ and worked remotely outside watching the hummingbirds. And of course we adored Pip, the rascally border collie mix, because she unequivocally adored us! This is basically the best place ever and we were sad to leave even after 3 months.
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 26, 2021
Thanks for the lovely review. We enjoyed having your family stay with us.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cuenca in Comfort

Great property... very clean and spacious. We enjoyed the backyard for morning coffee and evening glass of wine. The kitchen is fully stocked with everything needed for cooking full meals. We also used the backyard grill a couple times. The house is located about 150 feet from a river in a safe neighborhood. The river has trails along both sides for walking or biking.... very beautiful in town river. We took taxis to downtown about a five minute ride, easy to do and very inexpensive $ 1.50 Enjoyed staying here a little way from the hustle and bustle of the downtown area. Rex and Cheryl were super nice and very helpful. They have a fun little dog Pip, loved to go on long walks with us and loves treats. Almost kidnapped her and took her home with us, but we didn’t. Great place to stay , would recommend if you don’t want to be in noisy downtown, but with easy access to everything.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2020
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 21, 2020
Mark, thank you for the lovely review. We enjoyed your visit. Sorry it took so long to respond. My daughter came to visit right after your visit and then the COVID-19 situation took our attention. Stay safe
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cass Bella Mia

Staying at Cass Bella Mia helped enhance our stay in Ecuador. Rex and Cheryl are excellent hosts and a wealth of knowledge. If and when we come to Cuenca (which is very likely), we would stay here again. I have other friends interested in coming to visit or retire in Cuenca. I'd definitely recomend this lovely home.
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 6, 2020
Thank you for the lovely review. We (and Pip especially) enjoyed having you stay with us.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ecador, an interesting experience!

Rex and Cheryl are two of the kindest, caring and helpful people I have ever met. Casa Mia Bella is a treasure. Roomy, comfortable, clean and well equipped, but the real treasure are Rex and Cheryl, they took extremely good care of our needs and wants. If I go back to Cuenca I know where I'll stay.
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 6, 2020
Thank you for the lovely review. We try our best to provide an exceptional experience. You were great guests and we look forward to your return.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cuenca home away from home

I cannot say enough good things about this property. The owners are extremely knowledgable about the area and are more than willing to assist with anything needed. The property is beautiful and is pet friendly with a fenced yard. I have felt safe here, and and very happy I was able to stay here to start my life in Ecuador. I would highly recommend this home to anyone coming to visit Cuenca!
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 6, 2020
Hi Teresa, I just realized that even though we gave you a 5 star review, we neglected to respond to your review of Casa Bella Mia. My apologies. Thank you for staying with us and your glowing review. We enjoyed having you and welcome you back anytime you come this way. You were a wonderful guest.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our home away from home in Cuenca!

Casa Bella Mía was our home away from home for our 6 week stay in Cuenca. It was perfect for our family of 4 - super clean and safe, well appointed with all the modern conveniences, close to major avenues for catching a bus or taxi, and even closer to a beautiful riverside park to stroll or play. Rex and Cheryl were beyond helpful, always promptly assisting with any little need we had. We can’t wait to visit Cuenca again, and Casa Bella Mía will be our first choice for accommodation!
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 6, 2020
Jeff, thank you for the glowing review. We thoroughly enjoyed your family and applaud you for providing your children with the experience of learning about other cultures while they are young. We hope you enjoy your continued travels. Be safe and you are welcome back anytime. Rex and Cheryl
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The perfect way to see Cuenca!

Casa Bella Mía was the perfect homebase for our family of four as we visited Cuenca. It’s in a beautiful location right by the Yanuncay river, with easy access to grocery shopping and activities. The apartment itself is gorgeous, with all the modern conveniences we're used to. Highly recommend!
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 6, 2020
Your family is great, love having you!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Heaven in Cuenca

Clean, easily accessible, private, management more than accessible and helpful but not intrusive Literature provided to us regarding property and important things in Cuenca (taxis, supermarkets, banks, safety, restaurants) very imformitive and helpful. We would highly recommend this property to anyone planning either a short or long stay in Cuenca
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 6, 2020
Thank you Rosemary. We try to provide exceptional service and are glad to know it is appreciated. We also enjoy hosting people and learning about them. Thank you for being special guests. You are welcome back to Casa Bella Mia anytime.
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