Monasterio A Belmond Hotel Cusco — A Historic Sanctuary In The Heart Of The Andes

1.- HISTORICAL & ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE

One of the most striking features of the Monasterio a Belmond Hotel Cusco is undoubtedly its rich cultural and historical heritage. It is estimated to date back to the 16th century, when its primary function was the San Antonio Abad Seminary. At that time, it was considered a religious building that simultaneously fostered education during the city’s colonial period. This structure was established mainly to meet the needs of the priests and members of the evangelizing process carried out during the colonial era in Cusco, thus reflecting the fundamental principles upheld by this religious order. The immense stone walls of the Monasterio a Belmond Hotel Cusco highlight its great importance, as do the internal courtyards and passageways where the finishes and vaulted spaces can be appreciated, preserving the essence and spirituality of the religious life that once permeated the entire monastery.

Time played a significant role in the evolution of this ancient building. What initially served a purely religious purpose as a monastery was gradually restored and adapted to become what many consider the best luxury hotel in Cusco, an iconic lodging destination throughout the country. The transformation was carried out respectfully, adhering to safety and sustainability guidelines, always striving to preserve the historical legacy evident in every wall and every vital element of the structure, such as the chapel and original paintings. This conversion was a process that rescued the entire structure from the deterioration caused by the passage of time, giving it a revitalized appearance. Modern amenities were integrated, prioritizing the comfort of all guests. Today, this luxury hotel in Cusco Peru, stands out as one of the most exclusive in the city.

2.- Architectural Highlights

A key feature of the Monasterio a Belmond Hotel Cusco is its central cloister, which stands out subtly, nestled in a courtyard where silence reigns. It is completely surrounded by stone arches and a 300-year-old cedar tree, considered part of the city’s ancient heritage. The Monasterio a Belmond Hotel Cusco also houses a vast collection of colonial art, clearly demonstrating the relationship between the hotel and religion. Many of these paintings are part of the tradition and heritage of the Cusco School, showcased through altarpieces, ornamental pieces in an Andean Baroque style, and liturgical elements. Every stonework and doorway has been meticulously crafted under soaring ceilings, creating an incredible and unique architectural ensemble that makes the Monasterio a Belmond Hotel Cusco a true historical treasure hidden in the heart of the Imperial City of Cusco.

3.- LOCATION & SURROUNDINGS

This luxury hotel in Cusco Peru, is located directly in the city’s historic center, which is also the heart of urban life, just minutes from the Plaza de Armas, or main square. This convenient location has made the Monasterio a Belmond Hotel Cusco, an ideal choice for guests who not only enjoy spending a night in the hotel but can also easily access nearby experiences such as exploring the historic streets, cultural attractions, museums, temples, traditional markets, and even the popular San Blas neighborhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere and a large collection of art galleries. From the hotel itself, it’s easy to reach historical and emblematic sites like the Cusco Cathedral, the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, and even the traditional San Pedro Market, where you can appreciate more of the city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant way of life.

Ranked by many travelers as the Best Luxury Hotel in Cusco, this hotel has harmoniously blended into the urban context of the historic center, where the essence of old Cusco shines through. Undoubtedly, part of this historical aesthetic are the unique narrow streets, characterized primarily by their cobblestone paving, along with the collection of colonial mansions and churches where history seems to have stood still. This seamless integration into daily urban life, naturally connecting with the colonial aesthetic that is an integral part of the city’s history, is a key feature of this unique character.

4.- Accessibility and Transportation

The location of the Monasterio a Belmond Hotel Cusco is truly accessible, allowing travelers to find it with ease. Those arriving in the city for the first time can take a car directly from Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport to the historic center. This trip takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Furthermore, due to its strategic location, it’s possible to enjoy all the points of interest on foot, as it only takes a few minutes. However, for places located in the upper part of the city, a private transfer is always recommended for greater comfort. This accessibility makes this hotel one of the most suitable and incredible options for experiencing the essence of Cusco.

5.- ACCOMMODATION: ROOMS & SUITES

5.1.- One-Bedroom Suites

One of the rooms at the Monasterio a Belmond Hotel Cusco that best showcases the luxury and exclusivity the city has to offer, this suite stands out primarily for its king-size bed and marble-clad bathroom featuring an exclusive bathtub and a separate shower for refreshing guests. It also boasts a separate living area with a desk for working and a comfortable sofa for relaxing after a busy day exploring the city. These suites also feature a connection to a private balcony, terrace, or in some cases, a private patio. The room also includes air conditioning with constant oxygen supply for altitude acclimatization and heating for comfortable room temperature control.

5.2.- Junior Suite

A superior room type that stands out within the Belmond Hotel Cusco, known for its state-of-the-art amenities. Inside, guests can choose between king or double beds, which can be configured to suit each traveler’s needs. The private bathroom, entirely covered in marble, adds a touch of distinction. Guests also enjoy a separate living area where the sofa or desk can be used as a workspace for business travelers who need to hold meetings. Each room has individual heating, and air conditioning is available upon request. Many rooms also include a TV and video player, which is used by only some guests; others have an iPod docking station.

5.3.- Deluxe Junior Suite with Oxygen

A more spacious and luxurious version of the Junior Suite, it stands out for its personalized room amenities, such as a private bathroom and full service. Inside, you can enjoy options of king or double beds. The colonial architecture is a highlight throughout the room, allowing you to feel the cultural immersion at every moment of your stay. This room is also distinguished by its oxygenation system, which supplies the entire room to help travelers better adapt to the city’s altitude.

5.4.- Superior Room with Oxygen

Considered part of the Monasterio a Belmond Hotel Cusco’s room collection, these rooms offer distinguished service. Their colonial-style décor and access to a private bathroom covered in marble enhance the exclusivity and luxury you can enjoy during your stay. The room also offers more space and greater comfort, and features an oxygen supply distributed throughout the room, making travelers’ stay easier with state-of-the-art technology.

5.5.- Superior City View with Oxygen

These rooms are the most sought-after at the Monasterio a Belmond Hotel Cusco, by travelers who seek not only a place to relax and unwind but also the best views of the city. These rooms are considered unique thanks to their breathtaking views of the city, particularly the San Blas neighborhood, one of the oldest and best preserved in terms of its cultural and traditional essence, evident in each of its historic streets. Furthermore, all rooms in this category feature a complete oxygen supply to ensure optimal rest.

5.6.- Deluxe Room with Oxygen

A complete sanctuary and private environment, exclusively reserved for select travelers who choose the Monasterio a Belmond Hotel Cusco as their accommodation during their trip. It is considered one of the most exclusive because it has all the amenities to make the stay unique, with direct access to a private marble-clad bathroom and the rooms are strategically positioned with views towards the city or the main courtyard, each of the rooms has a complete oxygenation system that allows the stay of travelers to be more comfortable.

5.7.- Deluxe Rooms

Considered unique among all the options at the Monasterio a Belmond Hotel Cusco, these are the most premium rooms and stand out for being one of a kind in the entire hotel. They are an exclusive part of the monastery in the historic area, which has remained intact since the 16th century. Their interior is finely decorated with architectural elements typical of the colonial era, reflecting its rich history. They also feature a spacious living room where guests can be received. However, due to the room’s age, it does not have an oxygenation system.

6.- SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES

6.1.- Oqre Restaurant

Inside this prestigious hotel is one of Cusco’s finest restaurants. Nestled among the cloisters and with a direct view of the main courtyard, this restaurant offers a unique and refined gastronomic experience thanks to the renowned chef Jorge Muñoz. He proposes a decentralized style that incorporates a diversity of flavors thanks to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, combining the unique and special tastes of the coastal, Andean, and jungle regions. Personalized service is provided throughout the day, making it the ideal place for travelers seeking a different kind of breakfast, lunch, and dinner to enjoy under a clear sky.

6.2.- El Tupay

An exclusive option that seeks to combine the delicious flavors of Andean cuisine with international techniques and approaches, always maintaining the essence of the unique and special flavor that is Tupay. Undoubtedly, what stands out most about this prestigious restaurant is that during the week, opera performances are scheduled featuring iconic voices from the city, making it an immersion in cultural art. In this way, you can appreciate and enjoy the voices of a tenor and a soprano, which stand out and create a romantic atmosphere among the arches of the colonial building. This restaurant is one of the best.

6.3.- Art Tour

Among the hotel’s activities, a highlight is the opportunity to enjoy a comprehensive art tour of its extensive collection, which has colonial origins. A professional guide will lead you through the tour, offering a unique interpretation of the art and paintings and revealing the exclusive and rich heritage of the Cusco School. This experience transforms into a journey through time, allowing you to discover the essence hidden within the hotel. A minimum of two people is generally required to begin the tour.

6.4.- Chef for a Day

One of the most sought-after experiences for thousands of travelers is undoubtedly the immersion in the culinary heritage that can be enjoyed at this prestigious hotel. Accompanied by a master chef, you can enjoy a unique immersion, beginning with a visit to the traditional San Pedro Market. There, you can learn about local ingredients and discover the diversity of fruits and vegetables. You can also choose the main ingredients for your meal. Afterward, you’ll return to the hotel for an interactive cooking session, following a recipe alongside an experienced chef to prepare the dish of your choice.

6.5.- Pisco Classes

One of the most traditional experiences you can find during your trip to Cusco is the Pisco Sour. This workshop offers travelers the opportunity to savor the traditional Pisco Sour and learn about the different varieties of pisco, allowing you to invest time in traditional knowledge. This experience requires at least 24 hours to plan properly.

7.- WORLD RECOGNITION

“The Monasterio a Belmond Hotel Cusco has a long history as a former monastery dating back to the 16th cycle of the colonization process in Cusco. For this reason, it has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is also recognized as a protected national monument, as it is part of the city’s historic center.”

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8.- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

• What is the history behind Monasterio, A Belmond Hotel Cusco?

Historically, this prestigious hotel was used in the 16th century as an old monastery, serving as the seminary of San Antonio Abad. Over time, it suffered deterioration and was restored, later becoming one of the city’s most exclusive hotels. It is undoubtedly notable for preserving its colonial architecture intact.

• How many rooms and suites does the hotel have?

It has approximately 122 rooms, including standard rooms and suites, all designed specifically to uniquely enhance travelers’ comfort while maintaining the building’s historical character.

• Is there oxygen in the guest rooms?

Yes, most rooms have a constant supply of oxygen, primarily for travelers experiencing altitude sickness or other complications. This helps the body adjust to the altitude.

• What type of spa treatments does Monasterio offer?

It offers a variety of wellness and relaxation therapies, mainly for travelers experiencing physical or spiritual discomfort. These options include personalized massages with Andean essences, religious ceremonies, and treatments involving medicinal herbs.

• Does the hotel have a gym or a swimming pool?

This is one of the few hotels that doesn’t offer a gym or a pool because its construction and overall architecture are historically significant, and therefore, no major modifications that would compromise its original character are permitted.

Now you know everything you need to book this prestigious hotel for your next trip. Keep in mind that, as one of the city’s premier hotels, availability can be limited. Auri Peru is a strategic partner that can help you plan your stay seamlessly. Contact us now, and together we’ll embark on a new adventure.

“Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.”