Tell us about the atmosphere and location
The Sacred Valley of the Incas has become a cornerstone of Peru’s thriving tourist industry, with easy access to the citadel of Machu Picchu and the ancient city of Cuzco. And while that has brought crowds in ever larger numbers, Hacienda Urubamba’s location, set well back from the main road in 100 acres of lush farmland, means guests can experience this spectacular part of Peru without having to deal with the hordes of travelers who ply this route year round. The location is nothing short of incredible. The main house overlooks razor sharp ridges which climb to sharp peaks, the changing light giving each mountain its own allure as the day wears on.
The altitude (the hotel sites at 3,200 meters above sea level) means that everything moves at a pleasingly stately pace. The main lounge, with its roaring fire, is the perfect place to sip on a pre–dinner Pisco sour.
What’s the latest?
Although Hacienda Urubamba opened in 2015, its specifically created spa is a more recent addition. With treatment rooms overlooking mature lavender fields, the main appeal is the herb garden, where guests can harvest ingredients for their own, personalized massage oil, including chamomile and zesty Andean mint. Following treatments, guests can relax take advantage of the sauna and outdoor cold shower before settling into the hot tub, which overlooks the hotel’s own farm and the Andes in the distance.
What can you expect to find at the hotel?
Hacienda Urubamba featured 36 rooms in total. 12 are found within the main house, with nine superior deluxe, two junior suites and a vast ‘owner’s suite’, arrayed over one whole corner of the building. Downstairs, the main building features floor to ceiling windows, all the better for taking in the view while lingering over a cocktail or eating at the in–house restaurant.
There are also 24 casitas (literally ‘small homes’) spread spaciously over the hill behind the main house, backed by limestone–streaked hills. Each one features a patio, as well as a wood burner, with staff on hand to light a fire whenever required, a particular treat to return to after dinner.