In this difficult time, azureazure is here for you. We are committed to helping both our readers and the industries that have been most impacted by the pandemic. Until the crisis is over, we will be publishing relevant content alongside our regular stories, which we hope offer you a few moments of escape. We would like to hear from you. Email us at azure@azureazure.com
It is said that the famous Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel in Machu Picchu, Peru, has a truly special location, in a place “touched by Inca gods”, according to local folklore.In the Peruvian region of Cusco (from the Quechua language, although also known as Cuzco in some Spanish-speaking countries), around the year 1450, the ancient Inca built Machu Picchu, a city hidden high in the Andes mountains of Peru, believed to have been one of the many estates of the first Inca emperor Pachacutec and deemed more a religious sanctuary, given its ceremonial character and structures.
Truly the Inca gods were here, so close to the sky (given its elevation), in a place of great respect and reverence. Machu Picchu was abandoned by the 15th century during the Spanish conquest and rediscovered only a century ago. Since then, its history, haunting beauty and stunning location, have turned Machu Picchu into one of the most famous tourist attractions in the world and as a point of reference into Peru’s Inca culture in the world. In 1983, UNESCO declared the area of Machu Picchu a World Heritage Site.
Taking advantage of this privileged location along the banks of the Vilcanota River, the sumptuous Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel opened its doors in 2007. Inspired by the architecture of the enigmatic “lost city” of the Inca, this five-star hotel was built on the road that leads to the legendary archaeological ruins of Machu Picchu, on the same year it was designated one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.
The Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel boasts 60,000 square feet of interior space and a beautiful infrastructure. Guests call their experience at this hotel unforgettable, thanks to its luxurious modern atmosphere, excellent service and perfect location in an area of stunning biodiversity—within the habitat of 22 percent of the bird species in Peru and up to 300 native orchids. As for accommodation, guests can choose from 47 luxurious Superior Deluxe rooms, 11 Junior Suites, and 3 Sumaq Suites, all spacious, comfortable and well equipped, with hypoallergenic pillows, pure alpaca wool blankets and sheets made with the renowned Peruvian pima cotton, as well as all the modern communication systems and amenities.
The Qunuq restaurant on the second floor honors the intense, complex and exquisite flavors that can only be found in Peruvian cuisine. Through large windows in the dining room, guests can admire the lush and wild surroundings. You can also taste the regional cocktails made with pisco (the typical drink of Peru), served by expert bartenders in the Suquy Café & Bar which has a lovely ambiance decorated with Inca motifs.
At the spa, guests are pampered with ancient Inca treatments that will soothe body and spirit, using natural oils extracted from the coca leaf and flower essences. The Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel is an ideal place to interact with the community and the Andean landscape, taking advantage of a variety of exciting activities organized by the hotel, such as Peruvian cooking classes, participation in Andean rituals and guided eco-tours to visit areas where you can feel the magic touch of the Inca gods. ■
Related Articles:
Pisco: Peru’s Noble Spirit Makes A Comeback
Mario Testino: High Peruvian Fashion
Top 5 Unknown Adventure Destinations, According To Ryan Pyle