A great choice for those seeking a historical-style, luxury accommodation option in Cusco.
The Belmond Hotel Monasterio, as its name implies sits on the site of a Jesuit Monastery built in 1595 to train catholic priests in Cusco. Prior to this date, it was the Palace of the Inca Amaru Qhala. Today, you won’t find any Incan remains in this property but you will find an exquisite example of colonial renaissance style architecture and a world famous Cusco landmark.
The hotel is home to the stunning Chapel of San Antonio Abad, one of Cusco’s finest examples of the colonial ‘pan de oro’ or gold leaf style art. This is one of the only churches in Cusco where you are allowed to take photos. It is also one of Cusco’s most sought after locations for weddings and is well worth a visit. The Belmond Hotel Monasterio also hosts one of Cusco’s finest collections of 18th century colonial religious art with original paintings found throughout the hotel. If you are an art aficionado, the hotel will even organize a local art expert to come and take you on a tour of the art found within the hotel walls.
Since our last visit, nearly all rooms in the hotel have been renovated and now have a more modern, welcoming feel while retaining their historic charm. Rooms are decorated in a colonial style with replicas of colonial gold leaf art hanging on the walls and furniture in keeping with the opulent style of the hotel. Rooms have excellent beds and bed linen and bathrooms are now fabulous having been completely re-modelled in marble with spanish showers and L’Occitane amenities. All rooms come with I-pod docks, wifi and a complimentary shoe shine and turn-down service.
The Belmond Hotel Monasterio is a cultural landmark protected by the National Institute of Culture which means that no changes to the hotel structure are allowed. You are essentially sleeping in what were once the cells of the priests so don’t be surprised by small and in some cases dark bedrooms. Request a deluxe room which is slightly larger or a suite if you require more space.
One thing that does set Belmond Hotel Monasterio apart from other hotels in Cusco is the excellent Belmond service. No request is too big here and friendly staff do everything to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Rates include a buffet breakfast with excellent breads and pastries made by the in-house French pastry Chef that are also available in the Deli Monasterio Café next door.
Gregorian chants and classical opera surround you as you wander through the atmospheric colonial courtyards and when the lights come on at night you are transported into a peaceful world of elegance, history and tranquility.
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Best of Peru Travel Recommends:
- Don’t miss the opera night in the Tupay Restaurant on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays. This is a delightful evening of local fare and opera in the stunning setting (with great acoustics) of what was once the old refectory.
- The oldest tree in Cusco (which is more than 300 years old!) is also found in the hotel’s central courtyard. This is a lovely place to enjoy lunch or an evening drink in the shade of this old cedar tree.
- Try one of their cooking classes if you have an afternoon free. Discover some of Cusco’s incredible produce and learn some recipes to take back home.
