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La Casona |
Heralded by the early Spanish conquistadors as the most beautiful city in the Americas, the Inca capital of Cuzco has been attracting beauty of a different kind of late. Two of the most historic colonial mansions in the City have been transformed into differing visions of the luxury hotel.
Behind a massive green door in the serene Plaza de las Nazarenas next to the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, and La Casona is a converted 17th century manor house with many differences. On the surface, the 11 suites are the archetypal mix of the traditional and modern, where plasma screens and ipod stations sit side-by-side with original murals, exquisitely framed textiles and locally-sourced antiques – but beneath the surface La Casona has substance as well as elegant style. Operating like a private grand home as opposed to a commercial enterprise, the hotel’s serene ambience is backed by its reassuring eco credentials. The opulence of the surroundings belie La Casona’s carbon-neutral status. Everything is recycled, renewable energy is sourced from hydroelectric plants and Inkaterra invests in renewable energy projects. There is no branding, for example the handmade glazed ceramic plates they use have been made-to-measure by a Limenio ceramist. For the across from the Monasterio Hotel, is the latest venture from eco-tourism leaders Inkaterra. discerning traveller, these things count as much as the butler service and relaxing spa.
Meanwhile, one block up from La Casona toward the San Blas neighbourhood a few blocks from the Main Square, the Italian hotel collection called Luxury Properties has taken a uniquely sleek and chic approach to renovating another beautiful original Inca building, whilst retaining the original features of the designated Monument of Peruvian Cultural Heritage. Casa Cartagena is a first for Cuzco – an ultra-modern Italian minimalist hotel with 16 oxygen-enriched spacious suites, a spa and a restaurant serving Peruvian and International dishes, and a wine list boasting over 200 international wines. It has been impeccably styled with unusual lighting arrangements that highlight the mix between the old and the new. The resulting sophisticated European feel will appeal to those who want to be pampered in some style when on vacation.
Whichever your style, these hotel openings can only add to Cuzco’s appeal. Two more attractions which elevate the standard of luxury in this ancient city which has been captivating people for centuries. We are thrilled to be able to incorporate stays at either property into our unique itineraries. To find out more, please contact your Aracari representative.
La Casona |
