Ollantaytambo, a gem nestled in Peru's Sacred Valley, serves as a historical gateway to the wonders of Machu Picchu. This Inca city, often overlooked by travelers eager to reach the famed citadel, offers a serene environment for acclimatization and a chance to delve into the rich tapestry of the Sacred Valley's culture. With its strategic location, Ollantaytambo presents a selection of hotels that cater to the needs of adventurers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Here, we explore the top three hotels that promise a memorable stay in this ancient town.
Hotel Pakaritampu stands out as a four-star haven for visitors. Situated conveniently along the railroad tracks, mere steps from the train station, this hotel offers panoramic views of the Ollantaytambo ruins. The hotel's 37 guest rooms and a luxurious suite provide comfort and elegance, while the on-site restaurant, Mijuna Wasi, delights guests with its novoandina cuisine and buffet lunch offerings. In the evenings, the hotel bar serves an array of exquisite cocktails, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
El Albergue, a three-star establishment, boasts a rich history and an enviable location adjacent to the train station. Established in 1923 as the Santa Rosa Hotel, it was the first of its kind in Ollantaytambo. Following a period of closure, it reopened in 1976 with its current name, which translates to "refuge" in Spanish. With 16 rooms adorned with Andean textiles and surrounded by gardens showcasing the region's flora, El Albergue offers a cozy and authentic experience. The hotel's restaurant features a menu with locally sourced ingredients, and guests can also visit the adjacent café for a quick bite.
Hostal Sauce, a rustic yet comfortable lodging option, is situated a brief 10-minute walk from the train station, closer to the ruins and the town's main plaza. Ideal for those planning extensive exploration of the Sacred Valley, the hostel provides a warm fireplace in the lobby for guests to gather around during cooler evenings.
All three hotels offer the convenience of a box lunch for travelers venturing onward to Machu Picchu, with prices typically under 20 Soles and customizable contents upon request.
Ollantaytambo is not just a stopover; it's a destination in its own right. The town is a living Inca city, continuously inhabited since the 14th century, and features impressive ruins with defensive, ceremonial, and astronomical significance. For the active traveler, the area offers hiking, biking, rafting, and horse riding opportunities, with tour operators readily available in the main plaza.
While the hotels in Ollantaytambo provide comfort and convenience, the town itself is a treasure trove of history and adventure. It is located approximately one and a half hours by train from Machu Picchu and is near the starting point of the Inca Trail at Kilometer 77. The ruins of Ollantaytambo are a testament to its strategic importance in Inca times, and today, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the past for visitors.
Interestingly, Ollantaytambo's unique irrigation system, which dates back to the Inca period, is still in use today, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient engineering. According to the World Monuments Fund, this system is part of what makes the town a living museum of Inca civilization. Moreover, the town's grid-like layout is one of the finest surviving examples of Inca urban planning, which continues to captivate historians and tourists alike.
In conclusion, Ollantaytambo offers more than just a pit stop on the way to Machu Picchu; it is a cultural haven with a selection of hotels that cater to every traveler's needs. Whether seeking luxury, history, or rustic charm, visitors will find a place to stay that complements their journey through the Sacred Valley.
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