Peru’s capital is one of the largest cities on the continent of South America and the second-driest in the world. As such, it serves as a jumping-off point for travellers heading to sites like Machu Picchu, the Atacama Desert and Lake Titicaca. But Lima itself holds many fascinating insights into the mystical land’s history, with museums containing pre-Columbian art and exhibits tracing its millennia of civilizations including the Conquistadors and Incas. As it’s on the Pacific coast, it’s also a great place to surf and try watersports. And Lima offers great nightlife in addition to innovative restaurants with some genius chefs.
Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel
Its perch atop an oceanside cliff provides some epic views from the Belmond in Lima – best enjoyed when swimming in the heated outdoor rooftop pool, sheltered by high glass balustrades (those wanting their own private pool and terrace can book the Presidential Suite). And if you’d rather observe a water feature, pop down to the pond, where you can see its resident turtles taking a dip. The Zest Spa offers welcome massages after hot days of exploring and you can eat in three venues; Tragaluz, the 11th-floor Observatory and the Belo Bar. Miraflores Park has 89 bedrooms in total and is set in verdant gardens – a glamorous high-rise urban sanctuary.
JW Marriott Hotel Lima
The wide yet narrow glass exterior of the Marriott is quite a landmark on the oceanfront horizon. Like Milaflores Park it is encircled by greenery, with easy access to the beach – its expansive windows ensure guests are exposed to these fine views as frequently as possible. Indeed the vast majority of its 300 bedrooms face the sea. Parents can book interconnecting rooms and there are three accessible bedrooms. The hotel has two restaurants, one specialising in ceviche and sushi, the other in Peruvian-Western fusion food with a menu for kids.
Country Club Lima Hotel
Dating back to 1927, this building is a Peruvian Cultural Monument; guests are greeted by palm trees, a grand white frontage and polished marble floors in the lobby. It’s found in the San Isidro district, a residential area away from the central hubbub, allowing for a more refined and classic ambience conducive to fully relaxing. Those staying in one of the 83 bedrooms and suites receive exclusive access to the hotel’s Lima Golf Club and the Yaku Spa, and can dine at its gourmet establishment, the four-time winner of the Summum Award for the best restaurant in Lima, Perroquet.
AC Hotel by Marriott Lima Miraflores
Right on the boardwalk and connected to a shopping centre, the AC Hotel places you in the heart of the desirable Miraflores neighbourhood. A car will collect you for the short journey from the airport, then on arrival, the 24-hour front desk will arrange for you to be shown to one of 139 rooms; all offering laptop-compatible safes, soundproofing, pillowtop mattresses, hydro massage showers, designer toiletries and Netflix. The AC Hotel by Marriott also has an in-house art gallery, a rooftop terrace with stunning ocean views and eateries including Saladero, Insumo and the AC Kitchen.
Hyatt Centric San Isidro Lima
Stay in the ten-storey Hyatt Centric, in the city’s business district – a tranquil area with olive groves, where embassies, ruins and top restaurants stand shoulder to shoulder. 254 bedrooms (all with workstations, 55” HDTVs and blackout drapes) showcase Peruvian craftsmanship and artwork, while a rooftop pool with its glass balustrade and cushioned loungers is the place to unwind. Also on the top floor is the swanky Celeste Solar Bar, inspired by the high haunts of NYC. The French-meets-Peruvian bistro, Isidro Bistró Limeño, serves up incredible ceviche and there’s a deli, Awake, for snacks and coffees.