We stayed here for two nights as part of our tour of Brazil and Peru organised through Orient Express.

After landing at Cusco we were escorted to our hotel in the Sacred Valley, stopping off on the way at the Monasterio for some coca tea. Coca tea is freely available (as well as water) in a self service "niche" in the lobby at all times. It helps with altitude sickness, that fortunately neither of us seemed to suffer.

We enjoyed some coca tea while filling in our registration details, ready for our return to the hotel 4 nights later (after visiting Machu Picchu). This meant that when we arrived back (at around 10pm off the Hiram Bingham train) we could relax and go straight to bed without having to undergo check-in procedures.

Our room was a standard double with a courtyard view and the hillside beyond. It had oxygen, which was possibly the reason we didn't get altitude sickness(?) I guess we'll never know for sure. The room was average size (there have been reviews complaining about room size being small) by European standards. I think some Americans might find it smallish, but the historic building means limitations. There were beams on the ceiling, shutters on the window with a small seating area beside it. The marble bathroom was smallish, but perfectly adequate. It was all certainly big on charm.

The lobby / bar area is a peaceful retreat for a quiet read or drink (or cup of coca tea!). There is soft gregorian chant music played in most areas of the hotel. I don't usually like "piped music" in public places, but it seemed to add atmosphere without being obtrusive. The hotel is beautiful architecturally and the charm has been preserved.

Breakfast has a wide choice and excellent service in the vaulted ceiling breakfast room. Tea is served under parasols set out in one of the courtyards. Sun loungers are set out in the other (it was warm and sunny during our stay).

My partner took a massage in the spa, which he enjoyed. We saw other guests in robes on their way there.

After Pisco Sours in the bar, served with constantly replenished trays of nibbles, the Illiary restaurant served excellent food with a good mix of local dishes (highlighted on the menu) and international food. A local band played in the restaurant for a while during the meal. This gave extra local flavour!

All the staff were very pleasant and helpful and we enjoyed a peaceful and relaxing stay.