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Concierge.com

Hotel Monasterio, Cuzco

$400 or more
Editor's Pick
Peru, Central + South America
136 Calle Palacios
Cuzco
Peru
Tel: 51 84 24 1777
info@peruorientexpress.com.pe
www.monasterio.orient-express.com/web/ocus/ocus_a2a_home.jsp
Concierge.com's insider take:

Born as the 16th-century seminary of San Antonio Abad (itself built on the site of a former Inca palace), the Monasterio is one of Peru's most gorgeous hotels. Because the original architecture has been largely preserved, no two of the 127 guestrooms are alike. They range in size from the monastic (these were monks' cells, after all) to the presidential, in the form of sprawling suites. But each is well-appointed, blending modern facilities with Spanish colonial (heavy wooden shutters that swing open to reveal the city's copious supply of cupolas). Most rooms can be oxygen-enriched for a small surcharge, to help low-altitude-dwelling lungs (you're at 11,600 feet here). Another comfort enhancer to consider: Any of the soaks on offer from the resident Bath Butler. One good choice is the Qeros Bath, which comes with a glass of coca sour, a Peruvian cigar, scented candles, and antistress bath salts.

From the readers of Condé Nast Traveler:
Overall Score: 94.1
  • Rooms: 90.6
  • Service: 95.0
  • Food: 92.6
  • Location: 97.0
  • Design: 95.3
This former monastery built in Spanish colonial style remains faithful to its roots yet "manages not to be somber." One-of-a-kind room designs incorporate sloping ceilings, gilded-frame art, and carved mahogany furniture. Under the arches at El Tupay, sample special Japanese breakfast items like trout and miso soup, and "a breakfast buffet that is amazing." Illariy offers sautéed Andean alpaca. A bath butler customizes evening soaks.

(126 rooms)
—2009 Gold List
Information may have changed since the date of publication. Please confirm details with individual establishments before planning your trip.