Housed in a restored sixteenth-century convent, the JW Marriott El Convento Cusco is one of several luxury hotels in converted historic buildings, and one of our favorites – a top recommendation from Good Life Expeditions for a Cusco hotel.
History and Luxury at JW Marriott El Convento
Just a few minutes’ walk from the main square, the Cathedral and many of the city’s top attractions, the Marriot offers an excellent base for exploring Cusco. The wow factor starts as soon as you walk through the doors. Your eyes are instantly drawn to the large reception desk in what was once the chapel of the convent. Behind the desk is a floor to ceiling chandelier installation, made of over 60,000 individual pieces of gold Swarovski crystals. Each moves and glistens in the light, and the work of art represents the Inca sun god, Inti.
The building has an interesting history. During restoration work, Inca ruins and artifacts were discovered underneath the convent. The unexpected haul included carved boulders and pre-Inca tools, pots and jars. The main site was transformed into an exhibition hall, and daily complimentary tours are offered to hotel guests and members of the public. The décor and contents of the hotel pay homage to the buildings past, with many artifacts displayed throughout.
The hotel’s main restaurant and bar area face the internal courtyard, serving up a mix of Peruvian dishes and international classics, to appeal to all tastes. Meals can be enjoyed in the courtyard when the weather is nice, and there’s extra ambiance from a grand piano in the evenings.
Rooms are arranged around the central courtyard with several categories on offer. All are spacious and contemporary in their design and furnishings. Air-conditioning and oxygen systems are standard, as are the impressive amenities including coffee makers, I-pod docking stations and safety deposit boxes. The marble bathrooms offer both tubs and showers and the toiletries are scented with lavender and ylang ylang.
Cusco Travel with Good Life Expeditions
If you’d like to stay at the JW Marriot El Convento Cusco, as part of a voyage of discovery in Peru, contact us at Good Life Expeditions. Our knowledgeable travel team is ready to advise on all your Peru vacation arrangements.