As part of our 2-week trip to Peru, we spent 3 days visiting the beautiful ‘White City’ of Arequipa. We were fortunate enough to stay a night at the brand new and recently opened, CIRQA Hotel located in the very centre of Arequipa, only a block award from the main plaza and all of the sights!

When the taxi dropped us off in front of the hotel, we were initially unsure where it was. We then noticed an ornate wrought iron gate with the CIRQA logo next to it. We buzzed in and the iron gates swung open. We were so excited to stay in such a luxury boutique hotel and as soon as we stepped in, we noticed how the seemingly mono-coloured pale ‘sillar’ volcanic rock walls exuded such comfort and luxury. We knew this was going to be a unique experience.

We were immediately assigned a host at check-in who welcomed us to the hotel and took our suitcases. As we walked through the corridor towards our room, we could read about the history of this beautifully restored hotel on plaques on the wall. We learnt that it was built in 1540, the year that Arequipa itself was built and was once part of the San Agustin Church. Monks welcomed travellers passing through Arequipa with food and a warm hospitality. It was later converted into the an 11-room boutique hotel which has kept the original architecture of the former monastery estate.

The host gave us a tour of the boutique hotel and then took us to our room which was one of 11 rooms, centred around two charming courtyards. We booked the Aposento room which was just absolutely beautiful with its ancient white stone walls and high barrel ceilings. There was a sitting area and an ensuite bathroom with a rain shower. Each room has Wi-Fi, snacks, organic bath products (which smelt amazing!) and a smart TV with Netflix.  We were also surprised by the fact that it has a wireless speaker, which came in handy. From an architectural point of view, we loved how the rooms at CIRQA blends the modern minimalist style whilst still remaining sensitive to the historical building’s colonial past.

The room was very spacious and the bed was the most comfortable bed we’ve ever slept in! The host gave us a contact number in which we can co-ordinate meal times, excursions or heat up the plunge pool for you. It was an incredibly personalised service and everything was tailored around you and your itinerary.

Once we settled in and changed, we made our way to the most elegantly laid out dining room. We had a table waiting for us opposite the large open fireplace. We were so excited to try the food in Arequipa but especially at CIRQA’s restaurant because they have a focused menu where they use local fresh and seasonal ingredients and spices. As it’s a la carte, so we choose one starters, one mains and one dessert each. I’ll let the pictures do the talking…

After the most amazing night sleep, we got up and went to the courtyard where we were greeted by the waiter. He led us to the table in the courtyard where we ordered our breakfast. The food was absolutely delicious and the service was outstanding. If you book a stay here, make sure you go for the half board option!

As soon as we finished breakfast, we put on our robes and went to use the stylish plunge pool, located on one of the hotel’s two interior courtyards. We made a reservation at the pool (you must make a reservation so that the pool is private to you at this time). After visiting the Colca Canyon the day before, this was the most perfect way to unwind and relax. What we found baffling, is that even though we were in the centre of Arequipa, it was still so calm and peaceful and we were completely insulated from the hustle and bustle of the city. We spent a few hours here just soaking up the sun and just chatting away in the plunge pool.

There is also a spa where you can enjoy a massage. We didn’t get a chance to try this but I can imagine it being amazing – Another reason to go back!

We had a brilliant experience at CIRQA and it is undeniably the best hotel we stayed in Peru. It is the perfect place to unwind, relax and pamper yourself (especially after a tour or trek!). The attention to detail, from the architecture to the luxury amenities have been well thought of and makes this a truly unique hotel stay. I was also so impressed with the service as the staff are extremely attentive and friendly and really makes you feel well-looked after. They also gave us some great recommendations on places to go in the area and on excursions. We will definitely be coming back to stay here one day and also can’t wait to try out its sister hotel in Lake Titikaka.

If you want to book your stay in this incredible hotel, visit their official website on www.cirqa.pe or on Booking.Com