Most people's first thought when hearing the word Peru has something to do with Machu Picchu. However, the southern Pacific coast boasts treasures hidden amidst rocks, sands and waves, waiting for questing hearts that beat to the rhythms of finding something new and out of the ordinary. A scenic three-hour drive (or quick flight if time is tight) south of Lima, Paracas has been long celebrated as the vacation destination of choice for Peruvians, but until now - with the opening of Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort - plush pillows could only be found in private homes.
With front row seats to the spectacle of nature that unfolds every day, visitors are just a short private boat ride away from up-close-and-personal encounters with sea lions and penguins of the Ballestas Islands, an ecological sanctuary that could be called the 'new' Galapagos. In the opposite direction, miles and miles of picturesque dunes beckon. If water sports are your thing, consider this a new secret garden with perfect kite surfing and sea kayaking conditions most days - and did we mention female Surf Champ Sofia Mulanovich was raised and trained just up the beach?
Leading exciting days into deep sexy nights, Hotel Paracas sparkles like a jewel in the Paracas Bay with dazzling architecture and amenities and a sea-facing bar and lounge offering a perfect perch for Pisco Sours, Peru's highly addictive national cocktail. (The resort also offers a special tour, The Pisco Route, for those interested in learning more about how the spirit is harvested and produced.)
Insider tips: When booking, be sure to ask for a room with a sea view. Also, Hotel Paracas is owned by Libertador Hotels, which is the largest Peruvian hotel group, currently owning and operating in cities that stand out for their exceptional character, sites and lesser known attractions; they also have a private 12-passenger aircraft offering guests private transfers between all locations (Cusco, Puno, Arequipa, Lima, Trujillo and Paracas). Stay tuned for news on another new hotel opening soon in conjunction with the Luxury Collection in the Sacred Valley of Urubamba...
