Cusco, Peru
Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel
Heavenly Respite
What it is
A former monastery that’s now among the most luxe retreats in the nation, with 122 rooms, activities galore and two topnotch restaurants.
What it isn't
Poorly serviced. You’ll even have a bath butler to draw you the perfect spa-like dip to steep in (ideal after a hike).
What we think
The monks who once lived on these hallowed grounds would likely be shocked and delighted but its current state: a luxurious lair that puts the focus on what matters. Take the guest rooms, which blend historic touches (ornate tapestries, antique furniture, exposed beams and herringbone floors) with latter-day comforts, like iPod docks, LCD Tv’s, marble-lined bathrooms and even air conditioning on request. The one bedroom suites are our faves, thanks to private terraces or verandas and their own living rooms. Of course, we don’t imagine you’ll be spending too much time in your room, anyway: not when activities on offer here include zipping up to Machu Picchu on a gleaming Belmond Train and taking pisco Pisco mixology lessons with their ever-charming resident bartenders.
You're here because
You’re slightly worried about the altitude change (Cusco sits at 11,152-feet elevation) and some rooms can have extra oxygen pumped into the air for your peace of mind.
The Moment
In the glow of the candlelight under arched ceilings at El Tupay, the hotel’s fiercely locavore restaurant, you can’t tell what’s more beautiful—your date, or the suckling pig with elderberry and soy honey sauce in front of you.
Restaurants & Bars
Illary El Tupay
Location
Historic central Cusco, a two block walk from Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus (a church built in 1765) and just a block from Museo Inka, where dolls from 1100 AD are on display.
