Hotel Torre Dorada

Hotel Torre Dorada is a well-liked bed-and-breakfast-style establishment -- the type where guests know the owner, Peggy, by first name. The cozy 17-room hotel is housed in a modern building with big windows, making it quite a departure from the typical Spanish colonial hotels closer to the center of town. This is not to say that Hotel Torre Dorada lacks charm, as it has plenty to spare: spaces are bright and colorful, with cheery yellow walls, colorful Andean-patterned cushions, and attractive local artwork and handicrafts. There’s ample natural light, and many of the hotel's windows overlook the hotel’s private leafy garden. Homey ethnic touches complement the intimate atmosphere, and include colorful hand-knit Peruvian table runners, traditional terra-cotta pottery, and hand-woven Peruvian rugs and tapestries. It's a well-liked pick for the Cusco area for all types of tourists, though keep in mind that its quite far from the buzzing, historic center of town.

Hotel Torre Dorada is located on a quiet road in a peaceful residential neighborhood, just opposite a small park. This is a plus for those who prefer peace and quiet to the late night bustling of Plaza de Armas, Cusco’s vibrant historical center. The hotel is close to Wanchaq Station (eight minutes by car) and the airport (twelve minutes by car). Qurikancha, an Inca temple dedicated to the Sun God, is just a ten-minute drive away. Meanwhile, Plaza de Armas, the 16th century Cusco Cathedral, and the Inka Museum are a 15-minute drive away in the center of town. Poroy Station -- the departure point for Machu Picchu -- is 30 minutes away by car. All of these journeys can be conveniently arranged with the hotel’s cheap 24-hour car service.

Hotel Torre Dorada’s rooms are a departure from some of the smaller colonial hotels downtown, and as such, they have big purpose-built windows letting in plenty of natural light. This adds to the cheery atmosphere created by details like yellow-and-terra-cotta walls, clean sun-dried bedding, and natural wooden floors. Small personal touches, like the colorful hand-knit pen in the Double Matrimonial Room that we saw, add a bit of charm. Some accents are a little old-fashioned, such as the frilly curtains and bedding, and some rooms lack TVs. The best rooms overlook Cusco’s rooftops and surrounding hills, while others have a view of the private garden. It's quiet throughout the hotel -- don't expect to hear much more than the wind at night. All rooms come with free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are basic and clean, and come in neutral and terra cotta shades with white ceramic sinks. The stall showers have plenty of hot water and the hotel provides free toiletries. 

The best feature of this hotel just might be Peggy, who always helps guests with logistics, transport plans, and any other issues. The hotel’s car service is also well-liked for its cheap rates, flexibility, and reliability. Airport transfers are free. It's also worth noting that the staff is praised almost unanimously by previous guests. For instance, if a guest’s wallet is stolen, the hotel might send a staff member along to the police station to help with filing a report, if Spanish-English translations are needed. There are plenty of spaces for relaxing here as well, including a colorful TV room and a separate sitting room on every floor of the hotel. The roof terrace has patio seating and overlooks Cusco’s terra-cotta roofs and surrounding hills. There’s no restaurant, but the free breakfast buffet is delicious and includes an ample cold and hot selection including made-to-order eggs and local specialties like tamales and coffee. The Wi-Fi is free and there is free private parking on request.