Orient-Express has added a new hotel to its portfolio with the opening of Palacio Nazarenas in Cusco, Peru. The all-suite, boutique property is welcoming visitors to the former 16th-century convent, which was immaculately restored over a period of four years. During the painstaking excavation process, architects and archaeologists uncovered a host of Inca treasures, including an original Inca sandal, which are now showcased at the hotel. The Library serves as a museum for all the artifacts discovered over the course of the four-year project, and each day a ‘Chit Chat’ session will be held where an expert shaman, sommelier, or historian will speak with guests about the history, art and culture of Cuzco. Original Inca walls that were discovered have been carefully preserved beneath the glass floors of treatment rooms at the Hypnôze spa. A stream running over them also creates a soothing sight for guests having a massage.
Palacio Nazarenas is styled as an urban retreat. The hotel features 55 oxygenated suites that include Orient-Express’ deluxe Z-Collection category. Each suite has its own defining characteristics, such as an original Colonial arch or original Inca niches. Guestrooms from the Z-Collection have views of Ausangate Mountain or the neighborhood of San Blas, one of Cuzco’s most picturesque districts. The Nazarenas Suite, formerly the Abbess’ retreat for private prayer boasts a handcrafted ceiling of gold embellished roses, whose colors have inspired the entire palette of the hotel’s decor.
“The rebirth of Palacio Nazarenas is a complex project, but one that is Orient-Express through and through,” said Laurent Carrasset, managing director for Orient-Express Peru. “Ever since the company embarked on the revival of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in 1978, breathing new life into historic icons has become one of its hallmarks.”
To celebrate the launch of the hotel, Orient-Express has put together a special opening package that will allow guests of Palacio Nazarenas to discover the gastronomy of Cusco through the eyes of chef director Virgilio Martinez, who will be overseeing all cuisine at the hotel and ensuring that every ingredient is sourced from within an approximate 60 mile radius of the hotel. The ‘Taste of Cuzco’ package begins with a market tour with Martinez. Guests will then be treated to a cooking class with the talented chef who will guide through the basics of Andean cuisine. A customized three-course dinner, which allows guests to choose the ingredients they would like to sample, is also included in the package. The offer starts from approximately $783 per room, per night, based on a three-night stay.
The Details
Palacio Nazarenaswww.palacionazarenas.com
