Destination resort set in 12 scenic acres below Machu Picchu, in an area of true natural beauty where 214 bird species and the world’s largest native orchid collection (372 species) have been registered. The hotel’s expert guides are on hand to explore the native flora and fauna. The hotel is located just across from the Machu Picchu Pueblo train station and buses to the Ancient Citadel leave the town every 15 minutes from dawn until dusk. The resort occupies a private mountainside reserve and the accommodation is in standalone whitewashed casitas and villas with terracotta roofs scattered throughout the gardens to resemble an authentic Andean village. Each rustic casita features either a queen bed or two doubles and traditional Andean furnishings on tiled flooring, while deluxe offerings include a cosy fireplace with comfy seating. Upgrade to a suite or villa for bigger beds and rooms, plus outdoor space furnished with day beds, some even have a heated plunge pool, outdoor shower and the luxury of a personal butler. All feature signature Peruvian blankets, cotton sheets and Andean slippers and tapestries, as well as environmentally friendly toiletries. Outside several miles of trails loop through the forest from your doorstep, leading to hot springs and ancient Inca petroglyphs. Back at base, the lodge features a superb glass-walled restaurant with lush views of the Vilcanota River serving experimental fusion cuisine – the grilled river fish are a real highlight – and there is also a world-class spa and a eucalyptus and bamboo sauna to revive your aches after a day hiking the trails of Machu Picchu.
