Antigua Casona San Blas — Hotel Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Why book Antigua Casona, much like the bohemian-leaning hillside neighborhood of San Blas it resides in, is a quiet escape from downtown Cusco—yet the adobe walls and carved wood decor are rooted in the city’s quintessential charm. Set the scene On a narrow cobblestone street, Antigua Casona sits amid a string of colonial buildings—but step through the wood door, and you’re in a new world of your own. In the courtyard—home to the cozy bar and restaurant—you’ll likely spot a couple or two huddled in front of the low-slung fire pits, flicking through their photos of Machu Picchu with a glass of wine. Most people are in their refined mountain-town comfies: y’know, that black puffer or fleece with jeans and boots, or maybe an alpaca sweater just purchased in town—and they’re either gearing up for a day of exploration, or unwinding after crossing pre-Hispanic wonders off their bucket list. The backstory ‘The Casona’ is a natural representation of Cusco’s unique blend of pre-Hispanic and colonial architecture—perhaps because, having been built between 1750 and 1800, it doesn’t have to fake anything. A restoration in 2016, under Peru's Ministery of Culture’s supervision, has brought the building into the 21st century without compromising the soul of it—the courtyard, the heart of the hotel, has a hand-carved balcony that replicates the original; some of the red tiles on the roof were salvaged from the initial construction; and colonial adobes, made with cactus, mud, and straw, make up the walls. This neighborhood is the longest-inhabited section of the city, and it’s special to feel like you’re a part of that when staying here. The rooms The rooms align with the style of the house—there are natural woods, adobe walls, and Cusqueño textiles that place you in the destination without turning it into Disneyland. Fling open the curtains for a flood of light; otherwise, some rooms can feel a little cocoon-like with only lamps on (frankly, it’s a testament to how the home truly reflects Spanish colonial design). Art lovers should consider booking a Xapiri Ground Suite: as part of the hotel’s partnership with the Peruvian-based non-profit, which spotlights Amazonian culture, these three rooms have been adorned with Indigenous art, and bookings support the organization’s efforts. Food and drink The included breakfast is great—especially before long days of exploring in the Sacred Valley—with savory offerings like eggs, but also pancakes, yogurt, and fresh fruit. While we ate the rest of our meals out and about each day, nothing could beat having a glass of Peruvian or Chilean wine in the courtyard at night before flopping into bed. The neighborhood/area San Blas is a beloved homebase for travelers for good reason. It’s a short downhill walk to the main square (though nice and steep when you're coming home), and the slight vantage point means lovely views. With a progressive set of young Peruvians and expats calling the area home, expect to find surprisingly good vegan restaurants around, and art galleries (make sure to stop by Xapiri Ground; the same nonprofit the hotel partners with on art-filled suites has a very cool gallery and coffee shop there). The service Details like a hot water bottle and tea delivered to your room each evening are a lovely mark of hospitality. Ask the front desk for anything you need, either in Cusco city or the greater Sacred Valley area, and they’ll take care of you. Accessibility Reach out ahead of time with accessibility questions—the hotel is on an uneven, narrow road, and the space itself has stairs throughout (though there is also an elevator). Touch base with the front desk to request a room that will meet your needs, and ask for help booking accessible rides in and out as needed. Anything left to mention? If you want to hop into a yoga class on-site, ask the hotel for the schedule on arrival—and take the staff recommendation to eat at nearby restaurants like Pachapapa (for quintessential Peruvian flavors with local ingredients), or Green Point (a popular plant-based hideaway)." - Megan Spurrell