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Situated by the mighty Urubamba River between Cusco and Machu Picchu in Peru, Hotel Rio Sagrado is a tranquil setting for the Sacred Valley’s first ever solar heated swimming pool. Unveiled as part of a host of refurbishments at the hotel, including two new treatment rooms in the spa and upgraded accommodation, the outdoor pool further enhances the hotel’s position as a refuge of relaxation.
Named ‘UNU’ meaning water in Quechua, the infinity edged swimming pool is heated by six groups of four solar panels, which can store heat for when it is cloudy or should the temperature dip. 11m in length and 7m in width, the swimming pool offers unparalleled views of the river, also known as Willkamayu (Quechua for ‘sacred river’) and surrounding mountains, providing guests with additional space to unwind and soak up the powerful energy of the nearby flowing water.
For those feeling peckish a dedicated pool menu has been crafted serving a range of fresh pisco cocktails, non-alcoholic fruit drinks and snacks, such as Andean trout salad ceviche with fried yucca sticks and sweet potato and ‘Rio Sagrado’ mini burgers made with locally sourced beef. Complimentary bottled water and fruit brochettes are also on hand.
Using the finest local products to echo the serene spirit of the Urubamba River for which it overlooks, Spa Mayu Wilka is housed in a beautiful wood and stone complex with floor to ceiling windows. Offering three treatment rooms in total, two of which are new and feature under floor heating and a treatment room for couples, facilities also include a steam room and Jacuzzi. Treatments are locally inspired and guests can indulge in a coca leaf wrap, scrubs using Maras salts from the nearby mines combined with lavender or Sacha Inchi (a powerful plant used to alleviate inflammation) and massages designed to lighten the effects of altitude, to name but a few of the treatments on offer.
With a total of 21 Rooms and Suites and two Villas, Hotel Rio Sagrado is an intimate retreat. Light refurbishments have been made to all Deluxe and Junior Suites, including new heated floors in the bathrooms, the addition of wide French doors that open onto private terraces and updated furnishings. Accommodation through-out Hotel Rio Sagrado is light filled and spacious, infused with the spirit of the Sacred Valley.
The hotel is not just about relaxation and for those that can pull themselves away from the pool and spa, Hotel Rio Sagrado also offers a range of activities that can be tailored to families, couples and friends. Highlights include horse riding, mountain picnics, kayaking, quad biking and cooking classes. Alternatively for children, mask painting, ceramics and virgin cocktail making classes can be arranged. Each morning and afternoon, little ones (and adults!) can also assist in feeding the hotel’s three alpacas that live on site.
Prices at Hotel Rio Sagrado start from $325.00 per night, including taxes based on two sharing a Deluxe Room on a bed and breakfast basis. For further information or to book visit www.riosagrado.com.
