Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, Machu Picchu
Editor's Pick
Machu Picchu
Peru
Tel: 800 524 2420
Tel: 51 8421 1039
reserves@peruorientexpress.com.pe
machupicchu.orient-express.com/web/omac/omac_a2a_home.jsp
Concierge.com's insider take:
Once a rustic, state-run establishment, the 31-room Sanctuary Lodge was leased by Orient-Express in 1999 and transformed into a luxury eco-resort where organic Andean dishes are served on fine china and high tea is taken in native gardens. But tangible luxuries are secondary here: As the lone hotel permitted to operate alongside Machu Picchu, the Sanctuary Lodge lets you roll out of bed and beat the crowds to the ruins. For a taste of what awaits, request a room with a view of Huayna Picchu (the tallest local peak in any given shot of Machu Picchu)—though the jungle and garden outlooks are lovely, too. Quarters are admittedly close; the government architects had an obvious antisprawl mandate. So the simple interiors—all light linens and dark woods—work well. Reserve a year in advance if you're traveling during the dry season (April through October), and six months in advance the rest of the year.—Abbie Kozolchyk