La Casona, on a beautiful plaza in the San Blas district, is thought to be the oldest colonial building in Cuzco and was briefly the home of liberator Simón Bolívar. Carefully restored before opening in 2008 – it became Peru’s first Relais & Châteaux hotel a year later. The Old World dark-wood furniture, faded frescoes and antiques harmonise well with the earthy hues of Andean throws and exposed stonework. Eleven sumptuous and spacious suites overlook the plaza or inner courtyards, and all have private dining spaces as well as stone fireplaces, heated wooden floors and marble bathrooms. The small Yacu spa has an ecclesiastical calm. Guests here get to enjoy the à la carte menu that features Peruvian fusion food with exotic items like Andean trout, and lots of organic vegetables, fresh herbs and leaves from the Sacred Valley. Breakfast is a delectable sight of buttery pastries, cured meats, cheese, fresh fruit and coca tea or fresh coffee. Tea is served using home-grown hand-processed leaves.