Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado, Sacred Valley

Perched on the banks of the babbling Urubamba River, discover a Peruvian oasis in Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado. Whether through a morning yoga class in the indigenous gardens, a horseback ride through the hillsides or a traditional Pachamanca dinner, here you’ll find a gentle introduction into the slow pace of life of the Sacred Valley. 23 suites and villas are found within traditional casitas to give a Peruvian village feel whilst the Mayu Willka Spa looks on to ensure modern luxury. Underlined by a gentle Andean rhythm, you’ll instantly feel at ease.

Location

Up, over the valley and back down again, Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado is a gentle hour and a half drive from Cusco airport. Sitting in the depths of the Sacred Valley, the lower altitude makes Rio Sagrado the perfect spot to spend a few days before climbing to the heights of Machu Picchu. Whilst you’re here, make the most of high-octane adventure with white water rafting on the Urubamba before taking in some culture with a Shamanic blessing ceremony.

Your Room

Tucked within the casitas of Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado, you’ll find 21 rooms and suites with a further two villas hidden in the most private corners of the gardens. Framed by indigenous flowers, each room makes its own tribute to Pachamama, or Mother Earth, with light-filled spaces, bold colours and sumptuously soft Alpaca wools. Bringing the outside in, the rooms all feature private terraces, perfect for catching the morning sun whilst beds are orientated just so as to give views down the valley through the floor to ceiling windows. In a final flourish to the great outdoors, the only thing you won’t find here is a television – ensuring your peace is never disturbed.

Why we like it

There could be no better way to start the day than stepping out your casita onto the lawns to be greeted by Belmond Hotel Rio Sagrado’s friendly baby alpacas. Pick up a bottle and join them for breakfast before heading off on a day of discovery. Return each evening to Pisco masterclasses in the bar, perhaps putting your own spin on the signature Rio Sagrado pisco blend.