A former palace and convent, this restored hotel offers guests a tranquil getaway in Peru. Set in a quiet plaza behind Cusco’s main square, Belmond Palacio Nazarenas has majestic Inca architecture, landscaped terraces with indigenous flowers and kitchen herbs, and a cloistered courtyard with an ancient fountain.

History runs through this intimate urban retreat, and behind an ancient façade sits Cusco’s first heated, outdoor swimming pool, beautifully built within the largest of seven cloistered terraces. Guests can also unwind at the on-site spa, which specializes in aromatherapy using Peruvian ingredients during a session, like honey, coffee, avocado and pink Andean salt.

Each of the suites are fully equipped with a luxurious bathroom, a bar, TV and DVD player, and a private butler, who assists guests and attends to all their requirements. Guests can fashion their own drinks with fresh ingredients sourced from hotel (and surrounding areas) in the comfort of their suites. The palace hotel also has a range of stylish eateries that serve local cuisine: Senzo Restaurant specializes in Andean cuisine, and Senzo Bar serves cocktails next to the swimming pool.