For the last part of our stay in Peru, we spent it at the beautiful colonial city of Cusco. Voted as South America’s most beautiful city multiple times, Cusco is an absolute dream and a must visit on your trip. Stay tuned for my travel guide to Peru later this month.
During our time in Cusco, we stayed at the beautiful Belmond Palacio Nazarenas – an incredible historic hotel with the perfect mix of ancient meets contemporary vibes. It has also been voted as one of the best city hotels in South America by Travel and Leisure. It is located right in the centre of the historic part of the city, a 5 minute walk from the main square – Plaza Dr Armas, and close enough to walk to most other attractions within Cusco. The Belmond group has a ton of beautiful properties all around Peru including the Belmond Monasterio (in Cusco), Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (the ONLY hotel at Machu Picchu, so close to the citadel!!) as well as the Hiram Bingham Belmond train.
Around the beautiful and historic Palacio Nazarenas hotel
Built on Inca foundations, rich history meets modern indulgence in this Cusco fairytale like hideaway. This property used to be an Incan palace in the 15th cebntury as the name suggest and was then taken over by the nuns in the 17th century. All the original Inca stonework, colonial frescos and gold-framed paintings, etc are all preserved which truly make you feel like stepping back into a whole other era!
All the accommodation are suite styles and all have incredible views – whether its ok the sweeping views of Cusco, the beautiful pool, historic courtyards or beyond. Lovingly restored, 17th-century architecture gives each artistic room and suite a distinctly colonial feel. Oxygen-enriched air enhances wellbeing, while delicate Andean aromas revive and rejuvenate. All suites feature Peruvian travertine decor and exquisite views of the hotel courtyard or beyond. We stayed in a deluxe studio suite which had a view of the pool. Our luxurious suite had an outdoor and indoor lounge area, a four poster bed and a gorgeous Peruvian marble bathroom.
Our luxurious room
As for dining, they have one restaurant and bar n property. We loved our daily breakfasts at Senzo and also tried it for lunch on one of the days. Alfresco dining by the pool with delicious food and drinks to accompany, made it the perfect afternoon.
Lunch at Senzo (above), breakfast (below)
While you are on the property, also be sure to check out their amazing luxury spa. Inspired by Inca and Andean culture, Hypnôze Spa, Cusco offers a series of unique treatments to improve physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Anush and I both got the signature massage and it was incredible. We also had a view of the beautiful Incan ruins from our massage table.