27/06/2016
As the travellers made their way to the historical town of Cusco, driving through the scenic Sacred Valley of the Incas, they stopped at fascinating archaeological sites including the imposing Incan fortress of Sacsayhuaman and the peaceful site of Tambomachay, also named the Bath of the Inca.
In the afternoon, the group arrived on Plaza de Armas, Cusco’s energetic main square surrounded by colonial churches and balconied shops, bars and restaurants. They had been transported into a completely different world, far away from the serenity of the Urubamba mountains. Once the capital of the Incan Empire until the Spanish conquest, this UNESCO World Heritage Site perched high in the Andes, is an amalgam of architectural styles, cultures and traditions, making it truly captivating.
After a long day of exploring, the group found a welcome respite in Inkaterra La Casona, a quiet 11 suite 16th Century manor house immersed in history, located steps away from the main square – the perfect base from which to explore Cusco. Once the training grounds for Incan soldiers, Inkaterra La Casona, the first Relais & Châteaux property in Peru, was home to a conquistador and lodging for Simon Bolivar, Peru’s El Libertador. Each room has been individually, carefully decorated with antique furnishings, pre-columbian textiles and local art.
The following day, the group strolled the charming cobbled streets of the picturesque artists’ quarter of San Blas and explored the colourful Mercado Central, filled with fresh produce, local crafts, and juice bars.
As they embarked on the flight back to Lima, the journalists shared highlights and anecdotes from their thrilling Peruvian adventure – there is no doubt this is a trip they will remember for many years to come.
