Arriving in Olón a decade ago was like stepping into a hidden paradise. I had been traveling on my bicycle, exploring the Ecuadorian coast, when I stumbled upon this small, enchanting village nestled right next to Montañita. Back then, Olón was a place where time seemed to slow down. The air was thick with the scent of the ocean, and the sound of waves crashing against the shore was a constant, soothing background.
What struck me most about Olón was its simplicity and the sense of community. Life here was unhurried and uncomplicated, centered around the basics of what makes life fulfilling—nature, connection, and a deep sense of belonging. The surf was fantastic, with waves that could challenge seasoned surfers and welcome beginners alike. I immediately knew this was a place where I could put down roots, even if just for a while.
For two years, I devoted myself to a life that revolved around vegan food, surfing, and yoga. Every day was a routine of simplicity and joy—rising with the sun, practicing yoga, catching amazing waves, and nourishing my body with great meals. It was during this time that I began to see the potential of this little village, not just as a temporary stop on my journey, but as a place where something beautiful could grow.
The idea of opening a restaurant took hold of me, and soon, I found myself serving up vegan and pescatarian dishes to expats and travelers who had also discovered the magic of Olón. My little venture started small, but it quickly became a gathering place. People came for the food, but they stayed for the connection—the long conversations over coffee, the shared stories of travel and adventure, and the sense of community that began to build around the simple act of breaking bread together.
In a village as small as Olón was back then, word spread quickly, and before long, I found myself at the helm of the first coffee shop in town with a barista machine. It was a novelty, something new for the village, and it became a hub for both locals and visitors. I would spend hours behind the counter, crafting lattes and cappuccinos, chatting with the surfers, yogis, and wanderers who passed through. It was a time of laughter, discovery, and connection, where every cup of coffee served was an opportunity to meet someone new, to hear their story, and to share a piece of my own.
As the coffee shop flourished, so did my vision for what Olón could become. I began offering yoga retreats, inviting people to experience the tranquility of the village, the power of the ocean, and the peace that came with living in harmony with nature. These retreats were the first step in manifesting a dream that had been quietly forming in my mind—a vision of a place where people could come to heal, to grow, and to reconnect with themselves and the world around them.
This vision eventually led to the opening of Vikara, a center dedicated to healing and transformation. Vikara became a space where people could come to immerse themselves in a holistic lifestyle, to practice yoga, to experience plant medicine, and to connect with others on a similar journey. It was the culmination of years of dreaming, planning, and building—a place where the magic of Olón could be shared with the world.
As the years passed, Olón began to change. What had once been a sleepy, hidden village started to attract more attention. New restaurants began to open, each bringing something unique to the table. The village, once so small and quiet, became a destination in its own right. But despite the growth, Olón never lost its charm. The surf remained as excellent as ever, the village life as warm and welcoming as it had been when I first arrived.
Today, Olón is a place that offers something for everyone. The surf is still world-class, suitable for all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. The village is filled with great places to eat, from simple beachside shacks to more refined dining experiences. And while it has become easier to access other spots along the coast, Olón still feels off the beaten track, a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the world and find peace.
One of the things I love most about Olón is how safe it feels. Despite the growth, it has retained its sense of community, where people look out for each other, and life moves at a gentle pace. It’s a precious paradise, a place where you can walk along the beach for miles, where the ocean is alive with marine life. On any given day, you might spot dolphins playing in the waves or sea turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs. The natural beauty here is breathtaking, and it’s a reminder of the magic that drew me to Olón in the first place.
In recent years, Olón has also become a hub for holistic living. More and more healers and therapists are making their way to this little village, drawn by the same energy that captivated me all those years ago. Yoga studios, Plant medicine centers and wellness retreats are popping up in the area around, each offering a different path to healing and self-discovery. It’s as if Olón has found its calling, attracting those who seek not just a place to visit, but a place to transform.
As I reflect on the past decade, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for this journey. What started as a simple bike ride along the coast led me to a village that has become my home, a place where I have built a life, a community, and a vision. Olón has grown and changed, but it has never lost its essence—the magic, the community, the connection to nature. It’s a place where dreams come true, where visions manifest, and where the simple act of living becomes a journey of discovery.