<h3><strong>Exploring Peru – Oct 1-7&nbsp;(Plus dates in&nbsp;April, May, September and October 2023)</strong></h3><p>Whether hiking through the Inca Trail’s misty cloud forests or biking along paths sculpted over centuries, the real Peru reveals herself best on two feet and two wheels. By day, you can find inner healing through traditional Andean ceremonies before exploring the ruins of the Sacred Valley. Come sunset, sip pisco sours in an ancient Incan palace and see for yourself why the best time to witness Machu Picchu is long after the tourists have left.</p>

Published by Travel to Wellness

Wellness Retreats Guide 2022

<p>Compared to magazine writers, filmmakers have it easy. (Yes, I realize how biased that probably sounds. But let me explain.)</p><p>In order to properly capture a region’s essence, writers have to suffer. We slave away in front of our keyboards, desperately clamouring for the right combination of words to describe not just what a place looks like, but how it feels—its vibe, its milieu, its ineffable <em>je ne sais quoi</em>. (To wit: I scoured the thesaurus for 20 minutes before settling on “milieu.”)</p><p>Filmmakers, on the other hand, know no such struggles. In order to inform the audience they’re in Paris, Rome, New York or Sydney, all they need to do is drop in a quick establishing shot of the Eiffel Tower, Coliseum, Statue of Liberty or Opera House, respectively. Landmarks of this calibre are so famously unmistakable, that they come to not just identify a place, but emblematize it.</p><p>For more than a century now, Machu Picchu has been an icon. Since Hiram Bingham’s first fateful trip to the Incan site in 1911 – and especially after the publishing of his 1948 memoir The Lost City of the Inca, which propelled his journey into the popular conscience – Machu Picchu has been Peru’s most trafficked attraction.</p>

<p>At its peak, Machu Picchu attracted more than one million tourists each year. Even with restrictions encouraged by UNESCO and imposed by the Peruvian government, upwards of 900,000 still visit annually, taking the Hiram Bingham Train from Cusco to stare at the sun gate, or hike the nearby (and nearly as famous) Inca Trail. And to be fair, Machu Picchu’s appeal is obvious – I don’t think I’ve ever had an experience as transcendent as seeing it at sundown, after all the tourists had cleared out (working for B&amp;R has its perks).</p><p>But I sometimes pity those who hop a flight out of the country as soon as they’ve checked the spectacle off of their bucket list. I’ve spent a decade globetrotting for both work and pleasure, and I’ve found few countries that boast as wide a breadth of natural wonders, or as rich a reservoir of cultural heritage. That so few people take the time to savour all that Peru has to offer is one of travel’s greatest travesties—and one that I'm determined to correct.</p><p>With all due respect to The Lost City, I think it’s high time that people found out about Peru’s myriad other unforgettable adventures. There are enough off-the-grid, little known and overlooked experiences here to fill an entire magazine, but I think my editor would kill me if I took up that much space. (Editor’s Note: That’s true.) So in the interest of brevity, here are five of my absolute favourite parts of Peru that most people never get to experience.</p>

The Amazon

<p>When was the last time you fished for piranhas and swam with pink dolphins? That's what I thought.</p><p>The Peruvian Amazon is a treasure that's somehow remained hidden from the vast majority of the travel industry. The lush natural rainforest plays host to a slew of incredible creatures, from alligators and anacondas to jaguars and spider monkeys, and even its human inhabitants have embraced the idea of being off the grid—the region's main urban hub is Iquitos, the biggest city in the world that you can’t actually drive to. The best way to experience it is to quite literally go with the flow by floating down the Amazon River. Using a luxe cruise ship like the Aria Amazon as your home base, you can take skiffs that venture deeper into the heart of the jungle for wildlife viewing, and dock in remote villages to meet the locals and explore on foot.</p><p>Opportunities for water-based adventure abound, including kayaking, canoeing and swimming in the Amazon River by day. By night, you can break out a telescope and awe as constellations come to life in the skies of the Southern Hemisphere.</p>

<p>The aptly named Sacred Valley is a visually stunning, incredibly rich playground for adventure. Some of the best hiking trails in the world intersect the valley, passing through ancient ruins, agricultural enclaves and sweeping valleys, all of them lined by the Andes mountains. Here you can truly disconnect and commune with the natural world; hiking through the valley feels like stepping back into a simpler, more peaceful era. The few people you encounter along the way are locals who live off the land, the way their ancestors have for generations. On one hike, our group passed by a local woman who kindly offered us fresh, hot potatoes from her <em>huatia </em>(a sort of underground earth oven, shaped like a pyramid).</p><p>But the Sacred Valley isn't solely for serenity—adrenaline junkies will find plenty of adventures, too.</p><p>Mountain bikers flock to this part of Peru, but those who prefer four wheels to two can take it all in on ATVs, while those who prefer four legs to four wheels can ride horseback on gorgeous Peruvian Paso horses. Want to get on the water?</p><p>Kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and white water rafting are all on offer here. And if you're looking for a little elevation, you can rock-climb up a mountainside and zip-line back down, or paraglide above to explore it from the perspective of the Incan gods.</p>

The Sacred Valley

Arequipa & Colca Canyon

<p>Your Instagram feed will love <a href="https://butterfield.com/get-inspired/a-new-side-of-peru-arequipa-the-colca-canyon" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Arequipa</a>.</p><p>A colonial-era gem awash in white buildings made from hand-cut silar stone, Arequipa is a gorgeous city in an even more stunning setting. Three volcanoes frame the city, towering (safely) in the distance and providing the city with some stunning views, which few visitors to Peru ever get to drink in.</p><p>But there's much more to take in than the views—the food scene in Arequipa is incredible. A historical trade hub that connected Cusco and Lake Titicaca with countries such as Bolivia and Chile, today Arequipa is a melting pot where a mix of cultures, flavours, ingredients and spices come together in the local <em>picanterias</em> (lunch spots), creating a unique culinary experience.</p><p>You've got to try some <em>rocoto relleno</em>, Peru's version of stuffed pepper, and <em>chupe de camarones</em>, a shrimp chowder. Then wash it all down with <em>chicha morada</em>, a delicious drink made from purple Peruvian corn.</p><p>Culture and history abound in Arequipa too, including the Santa Catalina Monastery, an architectural stunner that recounts the scandalous tenure of the nuns who once lived there, and Juanita, a mummy only discovered when a glacier melted and revealed her tomb.</p>

<p>As if the city itself weren’t enough of a draw, Arequipa also provides a gateway to the stunning Colca Canyon, whose terraced valleys are even less trafficked than those in the Sacred Valley, despite the fact that some points of Colca reach greater depths than the Grand Canyon. Both the hiking and the horseback riding here is incredible, offering postcard-perfect views at every turn, and adventure junkies will love the river rafting.</p>

<p>Few people realize that the best archaeology experience in Peru has nothing to do with Machu Picchu.</p><p>Best known as the home of Peru's traditional marinera dance, Trujillo is a coastal town in northwestern Peru that not only boasts beautiful and colourful colonial architecture but acts as a gateway to pre-Incan archaeological sites that bring ancient history to life.</p><p>Nearby marvels include the Huaca de la Luna ("the moon temple"), one of the most important spiritual sites for the Moche culture, who populated the area from 100 to 700 AD, and El Brujo, the temples of which are adorned with polychrome reliefs depicting wars, gods and an ancient way of life.</p><p>But the best part is what—or maybe I should say who—isn't there. Because so many people forego Trujillo, savvy travellers are treated to a raw and relatively tourist-free experience that puts them directly in touch with ancient history—sometimes literally, in fact. With so few tourists, there’s little need for ropes and barriers, meaning there's nothing stopping you from reaching out to literally touch ancient history.</p>

Trujillo & the North

<p>Often overlooked or skipped by those flocking to Machu Picchu and Cusco, Lima is arguably the culinary capital of the world right now, boasting three coveted spots on the list of The World's 50 Best Restaurants.</p><p>Lima's restaurant scene has garnered a ton of attention from the press, but few editorials (and, thankfully, not many tourists) seem to appreciate just how cool the rest of the city is. Perched on the coast of the Pacific, the city offers sea, surf, sand and some incredible ocean views.</p><p>Further inland, Lima's myriad unique neighbourhoods make it the perfect place to meander on foot. In posh Miraflores, upscale shops, stunning sea views and great restaurants are complemented by huacas, the pre-Incan ruins scattered throughout the neighbourhood that add a bit of culture to all that class. In boho-chic Barranco, boutique shops and local artists dot a unique and colourful neighbourhood just begging to be snapped for social media. And in the city centre, fabulous architecture denotes the legacy of the conquistadors who once reigned over the city—be sure to check out Aliaga House, where consecutive generations of the Aliaga family have lived since the land was first granted to Jerónimo de Aliaga in 1535!</p>

Lima

<p><br></p><p>Feeling inspired to take the road less travelled in Peru? Learn more about our Scheduled departures <a href="https://butterfield.com/trip/scheduled/peru-walking" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a> or get in touch with Veronika Macas to start planning your perfect Bespoke adventure.</p>

Off The Beaten Trail In Peru

Five women sitting in front of Machu Picchu

Media Mentions

Peru

Wellness

Latin America

A Wellness Escape to Peru with Butterfield & Robinson

Essentials &amp; Advice

Italy

Umbria

Umbria’s 3 Essential Cities

Features &amp; Stories

Our Friends

Alpina Dolomites

slow food

Dolomites

Sustainable Cuisine in Northern Italy: In Conversation with Michelin-starred Chef Norbert Niederkofler

B&amp;R Fund

Slow Travel

The Slow Fund: Scholarship Fund with Kuska School

Eat &amp; Drink

Experts + Insiders

The Slow Road

A Taste of Peru at Home: Mushroom Ceviche

film

latin america

9 Movies That Will Transport You to Latin America

Around The World

The Best Books for Armchair Travel, According to Our Experts

Guides

Bespoke Stories

Travel Diary

<h2><strong>DAY 4 </strong></h2>
<h4>INCAN TRAILS &amp; TOMBS</h4>
<p>Since Craig and Josh were avid mountain bikers, I knew they could step things up on Day 4 with an amazing ride through the Lares Mountain Pass to the village of Calca. High altitude pedalling is no joke, but both father and son were up for the challenge, settling into a steady rhythm high above the Sacred Valley.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-44415 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_005_900x675.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="675" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_005_900x675.jpg 900w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_005_900x675-400x300.jpg 400w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_005_900x675-768x576.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_005_900x675-800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /></p>
<p>The climb paid off with one of the best descents in all of Peru – a mix of dirt roads and ancient trails that wind through small farming communities and across original Incan steps, ending at the tombs built into the cliff face of the Totora Canyon.</p>
<p>All in all, the gents completed a mighty 1,400-metre descent, earning a very well deserved rest at the evening’s hotel, the luxurious Tambo del Inka, a spectacular respite in the middle of an enchanted region.</p>
<hr />
<h2><strong>DAY 5 </strong></h2>
<h4>THE LOST CITY OF MACHU PICCHU</h4>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-38380" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Books-About-Peru-Banner.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1271" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Books-About-Peru-Banner.jpg 1920w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Books-About-Peru-Banner-453x300.jpg 453w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Books-About-Peru-Banner-768x508.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Books-About-Peru-Banner-906x600.jpg 906w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></p>
<p>When a traveller makes a request on a Bespoke trip, it’s my job to make it happen, but in true B&amp;R style I didn’t just want Craig and Josh to <em>visit</em> Machu Picchu, I wanted them to <em>experience</em> the Lost City in all its glory.</p>
<p>The morning began with a train ride along the Urubamba River through the Canyon of Vilcanota to the Lost City of the Incas.</p>
<p>At KM 104, they met up with Carlos, a local Machu Picchu expert, who led the guys along the final passage of the Inca Trail through impressive archaeological sites as he explained the history of Incan engineering and architecture.</p>
<p>They arrived at Inti Punku, Machu Picchu’s impressive gate, after lunch, and, as most people were leaving the site, they were able to sit in silence and watch the sun set on the citadel, marveling at one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.</p>
<hr />
<h2><strong>DAY 6 </strong></h2>
<h4>SCALING NEW HEIGHTS</h4>
<p>Before saying goodbye to Machu Picchu, Craig and Josh took one last opportunity to take in the majestic 360-degree views from Machu Picchu Mountain, the site&#8217;s highest peak.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-44441" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Bespoke-Stories-Peru-mid-banner4.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Bespoke-Stories-Peru-mid-banner4.jpg 1600w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Bespoke-Stories-Peru-mid-banner4-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Bespoke-Stories-Peru-mid-banner4-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Bespoke-Stories-Peru-mid-banner4-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px" /></p>
<p>Skyscraping Andean peaks tower in the distance while the Urubamba River wraps itself around the mountain site.</p>
<p>Inca priests once performed rituals on this site, and when you stand there now, you can almost feel their power electrifying the air.</p>
<hr />
<h2><strong>DAY 7 to 9 </strong></h2>
<h4>A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT</h4>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-44418 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_014_378x283.jpg" alt="" width="378" height="283" />Aside from being fit, fierce, mountain biking fiends, Craig also revealed during one of our discussions that he and Josh are avid white water rafters.</p>
<p>They couldn’t have picked a better spot than Peru and, as the cherry on top of an already exhilarating trip, I planned a three-day rafting adventure that would send them off on a high.</p>
<p>They set out from the Huallpachaca bridge, spending three days, paddling and exploring the Apurimac River through intermediate- and advance-level rapids. They drifted past granite cliffs and portaged across rocky trails.</p>
<p>They ran infamous rapids including – <strong>“The Purgatory”,</strong> <strong>“Space Odyssey”, “Tooth Ache”,</strong> and <strong>“Babalua”</strong> –traversed canyons and ate like kings before ending each day on a sandy campsite.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-44417 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_011_900x675.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="675" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_011_900x675.jpg 900w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_011_900x675-400x300.jpg 400w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_011_900x675-768x576.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_011_900x675-800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /></p>
<p>Up for anything, father and son “roughed” it, B&amp;R style, because while five-star hotels may not always be necessary on a B&amp;R trip, unique, breathtaking, immersive experiences certainly are.</p>
<hr />
<h2><strong>DAY 10 </strong></h2>
<h4>ADIOS PERU</h4>
<p>Having travelled back to Cusco the night before, Craig and Josh were ready to start their trip home, sad to say adios to Peru, but excited to share stories with their family and friends about their adventures in this magical Incan land.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-44421 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_009_900x675.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="675" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_009_900x675.jpg 900w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_009_900x675-400x300.jpg 400w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_009_900x675-768x576.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_009_900x675-800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /></p>
<p>And I was thrilled that, with this one-of-a-kind Bespoke father-son adventure, we had once again made dreams come true.</p>
<hr />
<h2>Start Planning Your Dream Trip</h2>
<h5>(Or better yet—let us!)</h5>
<p>Ready to go on your own unforgettable adventure? Have the perfect trip in mind? Whether it&#8217;s somewhere you&#8217;ve always dreamed of going or something you&#8217;ve always dreamed of doing, our expert Experience Designers specialize in turning fantasies into reality. Contact us to <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/start-planning/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">start planning</a>.</p>


<h2><strong>DAY 3 </strong></h2>
<h4>50 SHADES OF COLOUR</h4>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-10974" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Peru_inset.jpg" alt="Peruvian quilt" width="385" height="581" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Peru_inset.jpg 424w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Peru_inset-212x320.jpg 212w" sizes="(max-width: 385px) 100vw, 385px" />With its traditional vibrant fabrics and fantastical rainbow mountains, Peru is known as one of the most colourful countries in the world, and today’s activities lived up to the claim.</p>
<p>Craig and Josh’s ride began in the fields of the Chinchero plateau where potato, bean, corn, kiwicha, and quinoa crops create a patchwork of colours across the land.</p>
<p>With the snow-capped Urubamba mountain range in the background, it was a ride to remember, full of fast descents and glimpses of local culture in the Sacred Valley.</p>
<p>Outside the town of Moray, they hopped off the bikes to explore the Incan terraces, a luscious green paradise of concentric circles that took their breath away.</p>


<p>While no one knows the exact purpose of the terraces, they’re thought to be an early feat of scientific engineering by the Incans, an in-situ laboratory where they could study crops and experiment with different microclimates to see what conditions were best suited to what species.</p>
<p>They also managed to modify, adapt, and hybridize some crops, just one of the reasons that today, Peru is home to 2,000 different varieties of potatoes.</p>
<p>Thankfully, while potatoes did make an appearance on trip (you can’t visit Peru without feasting on a rainbow of organic chips served as an appetizer at virtually every restaurant), there were myriad other delicious dishes for Craig and Josh to try during lunch at the home of Tat, a local friend of B&amp;R and a pretty fantastic cook.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-44410 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_004_900x675.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="675" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_004_900x675.jpg 900w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_004_900x675-400x300.jpg 400w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_004_900x675-768x576.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/PERM_920180809_TCA_004_900x675-800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /></p>
<p>After lunch the boys headed to the Maras salt pans where they discovered just how many shades of pink there can be. For hundreds of years, local Peruvians have been harvesting pink salt from the geometric pools that cascade down the valley like a series of uneven steps.</p>
<p>I scheduled some time for Craig and Josh to walk among them, observing their methods and marveling at the ancient tradition, even getting to sample some of the goods!</p>


Bespoke Stories: <br>An "Off-the-Grid" Adventure for a Father & Son in Peru

<p>At its peak, Machu Picchu attracted more than one million tourists each year. Even with restrictions encouraged by UNESCO and imposed by the Peruvian government, upwards of 900,000 still visit annually, taking the Hiram Bingham Train from Cusco to stare at the sun gate, or hike the nearby (and nearly as famous) Inca Trail. And to be fair, Machu Picchu’s appeal is obvious – I don’t think I’ve ever had an experience as transcendent as seeing it at sun down, after all the tourists had cleared out (working for B&amp;R has its perks).</p>
<p>But I sometimes pity those who hop a flight out of the country as soon as they’ve checked the spectacle off of their bucket list. I’ve spent a decade globetrotting for both work and pleasure, and I’ve found few countries that boast as wide a breadth of natural wonders, or as rich a reservoir of cultural heritage. That so few people take the time to savour all that Peru has to offer is one of travel’s greatest travesties—and one that I&#8217;m determined to correct.</p>
<p>With all due respect to The Lost City, I think it’s high time that people found out about Peru’s myriad other unforgettable adventures. There are enough off-the-grid, little known and overlooked experiences here to fill an entire magazine, but I think my editor would kill me if I took up that much space. (<em>Editor’s Note: That’s true.</em>) So in the interest of brevity, here are five of my absolute favourite&#8230;</p>
<hr />
<p>Want to read more? Email Veronika to get the full story: <a href="mailto:veronika@theslowroad.com">veronika@theslowroad.com</a></p>


Off the Beaten Trail in Peru

<h2><strong>Go Low in the Colca Canyon</strong></h2>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40871 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/peru-child-alpaca-350.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="233" />Don’t fear the depths of the Colca Canyon, located in the south of the country. In some places, it’s deeper than the Grand Canyon itself, and is recognized as one of the deepest canyons in the world, as low as 3,270 feet (10,730 feet). This typical Andean valley is saturated with hundreds of Inca terraces in an array of colours—lush and green in the summer, gold in the drier months—and rooted in pre-Inca times.</p>
<p>The first people to inhabit the region were the Quechua-speaking Cabana, descendants from the Wari, and the Collagua cultures, who relocated here from Lake Titicaca. It was only in the year 1320 that the Inca civilization came to this area, and through intermarrying, the Inca established their dominance over the region. Spanish conquerors under the direction of Gonzalo Pizarro arrived in 1540 and relocating the locals to centrally-built pueblo settlements, which remain today as the main towns in the region.</p>
<h4><strong>Active Pursuits</strong></h4>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40881 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/hikers-400.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="267" />Your best bet to make the most of the Colca Canyon is heading out by foot on picturesque hikes, with postcard-worthy views at every turn. A relaxed and tranquil atmosphere means your walk on the trails will be uncrowded, a major contrast to sites like Machu Picchu. Rafting on the Colca River and horseback riding are other activities to consider.</p>
<h4><strong>A birder’s delight</strong></h4>
<p>Don’t forget to look up—swarms of the magnificent Andean condor make their home along the Canyon amongst the rocks. This endangered bird is the largest flying land bird in the Western hemisphere with a maximum wingspan of up to 3.3 metres (just over 10 feet). Anywhere else in the world, a sighting is extremely rare, but not so here in the Colca Canyon; you will see flocks of them soaring and perhaps, if they fly close enough, you will feel the mighty wind from their wings. Also keep an eye out for the giant hummingbird, about 21 centimetres (8.5 inches) in length, and the bird that inspired the hummingbird art of the Nazca Lines.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40872 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/condor-960.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/condor-960.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/condor-960-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/condor-960-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/condor-960-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<h4><strong>Where to Stay: </strong></h4>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.belmond.com/hotels/south-america/peru/colca-canyon/belmond-las-casitas/">Hotel Belmond Las Casitas</a></strong> is a serene and tranquil getaway in the Colca Valley with just 20 private casitas. It is set amongst the backdrop of the Andes Mountains and features an on-site spa, vegetable garden, greenhouses, and even a small farm with horses, pigs, alpacas and guinea pigs, great if you are travelling with the family.</p>


Discover A New Peru:<br> Arequipa & Colca Canyon

Argentina

<h3><strong>The Mapuche People</strong></h3>
<p>The Mapuche indigenous people have been around since at least 600 years BCE, and are the most numerous first peoples in South America, at more than 1.5 million people. Most Mapuche live in south-central Chile, southwestern Argentina and parts of present-day Patagonia. There was conflict as the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 16th through to the 18th centuries, with much resistance from the Mapuche. As the Spanish gave way to Chilean independence, the Mapuche were moved to reservations and their traditional lands used for agriculture, with some land disputes continuing to this day.</p>
<p>A collection of various groups of people linked by their common language, Mapudungun, Mapuche means ‘the people of the earth’. Truly connected to the land, much of the culture features healing ceremonies and the use of traditional herbal medicine. There are traditions of the Mapuche shaman, the <em>machi</em> (usually female), who perform ceremonies to heal and ward off enemies or evil. There is also a rich tradition of textile-making (woven blankets or ponchos) that is passed down from one generation to the next, along with silverwork due to trade with Spaniards and Chileans.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40209 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/mapuche-people-732.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="485" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/mapuche-people-732.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/mapuche-people-732-453x300.jpg 453w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></p>
<h3><strong>Nahuel Huapi National Park</strong></h3>
<p>The oldest national park in Argentina, established in 1934, it’s also one of the largest in the region, encompassing several ecozones in the foothills of the Andes and Nahuel Huapi Lake. The altitude of the park rises up to 3,574 metres (11,726 feet) and spans nearly 2 million acres of land. From white-topped peaks that feature year-round snow, this is the perfect place to explore the lakes, rivers, waterfalls, glaciers and deep forests of the Andes; on its western side, the Chilean border trims it.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40213 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Nahuel-Huapi-lake-and-park-732px.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="490" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Nahuel-Huapi-lake-and-park-732px.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Nahuel-Huapi-lake-and-park-732px-448x300.jpg 448w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></p>
<h3><strong>Nahuel Huapi Lake</strong></h3>
<p>Located in the lake region of northern Patagonia and within the Nahuel Huapi National Park, this vast glacial lake takes its name from the Mapuche language, meaning “Island of the Jaguar”. A Jesuit mission was established here from 1670-1673, and another one in 1703, destroyed in 1717 due to a local dispute. There are seven branches in this lake, along with two islands: Isla Victoria and Isla Huemul. The lake is stocked with non-native fish (rainbow, brown and brook trout) ideal for recreational fishing, along with other outdoor activities like kayaking. According to legend, there is a giant cryptid living in the lake, called ‘Nahuelito’, and its sightings reportedly predate Nessie. In nearby Chile, the Puyehue-Cordón volcano complex (of four volcanoes) erupted in the year 2011, blanketing the lake’s surface in volcanic ash for a brief time.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40207 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Bariloche-lake-960px.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="504" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Bariloche-lake-960px.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Bariloche-lake-960px-480x252.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Bariloche-lake-960px-768x403.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<h3><strong>Yerba Mate and tea culture in Argentina</strong></h3>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40210 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/yerba-mate-250px.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="376" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/yerba-mate-250px.jpg 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/yerba-mate-250px-199x300.jpg 199w" sizes="(max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" />The national drink of Argentina, the highly caffeinated herbal tea, <em>yerba mate</em>, is derived from the ground leaves of the plant <em>ilex paraguariensis</em>, actually a member of the holly family. Rich in caffeine as well as antioxidants, cholesterol-lowering properties and the vitamins B1, B2 and C, it is considered a healthy drink with medicinal properties by indigenous South Americans.</p>
<p>First cultivated and consumed by the indigenous Guarani people in Southern Brazil, the drink spread with European colonization, with Jesuits first successfully cultivating it commercially (although they tried to ban it in Argentina at first). Traditionally served loose-leaf in a hollow gourd and drunk through a perforated metal straw called a <em>bombilla</em>, the serving style is to pass the gourd to each person, drinking it communally; it is refilled continuously and shared. Being highly caffeinated, it is often drunk as a morning beverage. You’ll also find a variation of yerba mate called <em>mate cocido</em>, which is brewed from a tea bag and served with milk and sugar.</p>
<p>In Buenos Aires and in the Welsh regions of Patagonia, a fascinating mash-up of British and Argentine tea culture has sprung up with tea sandwiches and a late afternoon ritual, following the British tradition.</p>
<h2><strong>Where to Stay</strong></h2>
<h3><a href="http://llaollao.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Llao Llao Resort, Bariloche</strong></a></h3>
<p>The most exclusive resort in Argentine Patagonia, Llao Llao boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes, forests, and the soaring Andes mountains. A magnificent indoor and outdoor pool, 18 holes of golf, and an amazing spa are just some of the amenities on offer at this grand hideaway.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40215 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Llao-Llao-hotel.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="638" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Llao-Llao-hotel.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Llao-Llao-hotel-451x300.jpg 451w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Llao-Llao-hotel-768x510.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Llao-Llao-hotel-903x600.jpg 903w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<h3><a href="http://lasbalsas.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Las Balsas Hotel</strong></a></h3>
<p>The prestige of this Relais &amp; Chateaux property set amidst the breathtaking Patagonian landscape is an opportunity to encounter Argentina at its natural best. Las Balsas is a haven for those who seek the serenity of wide open spaces, whether finding refuge in the hotel’s spa or pursuing a more active agenda in the surrounding countryside.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40216 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Las-Balsas.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="480" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Las-Balsas.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Las-Balsas-480x240.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Las-Balsas-768x384.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<h3><strong><a href="https://www.andbeyond.com/our-lodges/south-america/chile/lake-district/andbeyond-vira-vira/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hotel Vira Vira</a> </strong></h3>
<p>Set in a marvellous park and surrounded by stunning volcanoes, Vira Vira sits proudly on the shores of the peaceful Liucura River. Its gourmet restaurant uses wonderfully fresh produce from the property’s farm to design the daily menu. The cozy ﬁreplace is the perfect spot to curl up with a glass of Chilean Carmenère in the evenings.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40217 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Vira-Vira.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="679" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Vira-Vira.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Vira-Vira-424x300.jpg 424w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Vira-Vira-768x543.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Vira-Vira-848x600.jpg 848w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>


Lakes & Volcanoes: A New Way to See The Andes

Portfolio

Veneto

<h3><strong><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-39966 size-medium" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Gondolier-300px-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Gondolier-300px-225x300.jpg 225w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Gondolier-300px.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" /></strong></h3>
<h2><strong>Shoes</strong></h2>
<h4><a href="https://giovannazanella.com/eng/aboutme/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Giovanna Zanella</a></h4>
<p>Make a stop by Giovanna Zanella’s shop for made-to-measure shoes. Zanella works in the shop alongside her apprentice (she also learned under the tutelage of a master shoemaker) and can create custom shoes—ready in two months—after measuring your feet in the shop. From there, you can order online or by phone, but only after she takes your measurements in person.</p>
<h4>La Friulana</h4>
<p>Many of the shoes worn by the gondoliers of Venice today are made cheaply overseas. If you’re in search of the real thing marked by <em>Made in Italy</em>, Le Friulana is the place to go. From velvet to silk or linen and colours both bold or muted, you may be able to find something here that piques your interest.</p>
<p>Phone: +39 041 523 9833<br />
Address: Calle del Scaleter, 30125 Venice VE, Italy</p>
<h2><strong>Lace</strong></h2>
<p>Lace in Venice is most closely linked with Burano, the colourful island found to the north of the mainland. This dainty fabric was at one time the prized possession of European nobles; it was used in dowries and outfitted the most prestigious of royals such as Marie de’Medici and King Louis XIV.</p>
<p>The legend goes that lacemaking first made an appearance in Venice when a smitten sailor gifted a Venetian girl with a plant called <em>trina delle sirene</em>, otherwise known as mermaid’s lace. Enchanted by the plant’s beauty, the girl aimed to recreate its intricate design using delicate thread, and the art was born. Lacemaking was always deemed a ‘woman’s task’, particularly suited for convents; the work behind crafting Burano lace is painstaking and the art of making it was deemed fit for women who lived a cloistered and contemplative life. Despite its labour-intensive nature, lace continues to be a mainstay of Venice. Here’s where you can take home a bit of Venetian history with a lace-made piece.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39941 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Burano-960px.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="701" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Burano-960px.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Burano-960px-411x300.jpg 411w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Burano-960px-768x561.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Burano-960px-822x600.jpg 822w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39943 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/emilia-burano-showroom-300.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="302" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/emilia-burano-showroom-300.jpg 300w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/emilia-burano-showroom-300-298x300.jpg 298w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/emilia-burano-showroom-300-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></p>
<h4><a href="http://www.emiliaburano.it" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emilia Burano</a></h4>
<p>This is the shop for Burano lace, from fine lingerie to dresses and home decor. Carrying on the family legacy, Emilia took on the craft at her grandmother’s knee. Now in its fourth generation, the business has extended into bespoke home linens as well. There are two boutiques found on Burano Island and one in Venice inside the Belmond Hotel Cipriani.</p>
<h2><strong>Boats</strong></h2>
<h4><a href="http://www.veniceboats.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gilberto Penzo</a></h4>
<p>A symbol of Venice, gondola-making is a long-standing tradition passed on through family generations. Gilberto Penzo, who comes from a family of boat builders, translated his craft to miniature models of gondolas, the <em>vaporetto</em> and other Venetian boats. Along with his incredibly detailed, pre-made models, he also offers kits for do-it-yourselfers.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39980 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/gilberto-penzo-boats-732.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="303" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/gilberto-penzo-boats-732.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/gilberto-penzo-boats-732-480x199.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></p>
<h4><a href="http://tramontingondole.it" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tramontin</a></h4>
<p>At Tramontin you can go big <em>and</em> go home…with a full-sized gondola. Building this traditional vessel since 1884, the Tramontin family hasn’t changed their technique since and use only cured, solid wood to assemble their boats. After dropping a cool $30,000 and a two-month construction time, you can live out your romantic fantasies well after your trip to Venice. An appointment is necessary, so be sure to call ahead.</p>
<h3><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-39981 size-thumbnail" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/T-Fondaco-Rooftop-Hat-Lady-350px-250x156.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="156" /></h3>
<h2><strong>For A Break&#8230;</strong></h2>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.dfs.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">T Fondaco dei Tedeschi</a></strong></p>
<p>If you need an air-conditioned respite from the outdoors, head to T Fondaco dei Tedeschi. A former roadside inn for traders, it’s now a luxury shopping mall that sees free art shows on its top floor and views over Venice from the rooftop terrace. Even if you’re not looking to shop their selection of international labels, the restaurant café, AMO, is a great place for a bite or espresso break. Designed by French designer, Philippe Starck, AMO is headed by Massimiliano Alajmo, the youngest chef in history to earn 3 Michelin stars.</p>


The Best 22 Shops <br> in Venice

Lakes District

<h2><strong>Lugano, Switzerland</strong></h2>
<p>When you&#8217;re this close to the Italian border, hopping over to Switzerland just makes sense. One of the closest cities, Lugano, belongs to Switzerland but is located in Ticino, an Italian-speaking canton. When shopping in Switzerland, why not pick up a timepiece for yourself in the watch capital of the world?</p>
<p><strong>WATCHES</strong></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-39491 size-full alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/rolex-350px.jpg" alt="watch" width="350" height="231" />Watchmaking in Switzerland dates back to the late 16th c. after Huguenot refugees introduced the craft of portable timepieces to the booming city of Geneva. Under Calvin rule at the time, the citizens of Geneva were strictly banned from displaying any signs of wealth, including pieces of jewelry. The city’s goldsmiths were left in a precarious situation and needed to diversify their skills. They turned to watchmaking and went on to export their masterpieces to the Orient and American colonies.</p>
<p>The art of watchmaking began to spread across the country, evolving into crafting other timepieces like pendulum clocks and pocket watches. By the 19th c., Switzerland was considered the most important watch manufacturer in the world.</p>
<p>Near the end of the century, their success was briefly jeopardized by the Americans who had matched Swiss innovation and added to it mass production. The Swiss responded by adding additional features to their watches like calendars, stopwatch functions, and waterproof protection, swinging them back into the market.</p>
<p>Pick up a classic from the world leaders in watchmaking from one of these shops so that you can linger in the memories of your time in the Swiss Lakes with every glance of your wrist. A VAT refund (about 7.7% in Switzerland) means you can shop tax-free (just ask for the form), and you may also find a wider selection at the stores here than back at home, with the possibility of better prices in their country of manufacture.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39481 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-tower-960px.jpg" alt="switzerland" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-tower-960px.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-tower-960px-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-tower-960px-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-tower-960px-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<h3><strong><a href="http://www.bucherer.com/"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-39482 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/bucherer-entry-david-b-350px.jpg" alt="bucherer" width="350" height="259" />Bucherer</a></strong></h3>
<p>Established in 1888, Bucherer was Lucerne’s first watch and jewelry store. Rolex, Tissot, Girard-Perregaux and Jaeger-LeCoultre watches are just a sample of the Swiss brands on offer here, along with their line of dazzling, award-winning jewellery.</p>
<h4></h4>
<h3><strong><a href="http://www.foxtown.com/en">Foxtown Designer Outlet</a></strong></h3>
<p style="background: white;">About 30 minutes from Lugano, you may encounter a rare find at Foxtown. The outlets are worth a look for quality bargains on labels that are not often discounted back at home, including Dolce &amp; Gabbana, Dsquared, Etro, Fratelli Rossetti, Prada, Gucci, Valentino, Missoni, and other European and Italian brands.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39490 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-treelines-960.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="614" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-treelines-960.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-treelines-960-469x300.jpg 469w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-treelines-960-768x491.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-treelines-960-938x600.jpg 938w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>


9 Best Shops in the Italian Lakes

North America

Alaska

<h2><strong><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39457 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/moose-tooth-northern-lites-350px.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="255" />Outdoor dining/entertainment:</strong></h2>
<h4><a href="http://www.moosestooth.net/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Moose&#8217;s Tooth Pub &amp; Pizzeria</a></h4>
<p>A brewpub and an outdoor entertainment venue, Moose’s Tooth is a convivial spot perfect for large groups and families. Proudly serving their house label, Broken Tooth Beer, a new brew is released the first Thursday of each month. The event, called First Tap Tap, is a much-anticipated event by locals and often paired with live music.</p>
<h2><strong><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39459 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/bridge-cooks-salmon-350px.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="227" />Best seafood in Anchorage:</strong></h2>
<h4><a href="http://bridgeseafood.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bridge Seafood</a></h4>
<p>Housed on a bridge that stretches over a salmon stream, it makes sense that this restaurant plates some of the best seafood in Anchorage. Look on as the fishermen make their daily catch, while you dine on fresh Alaskan crab, salmon, and oysters.</p>
<h2><strong><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39455 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/mint-chip-truck-350.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="328" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/mint-chip-truck-350.jpg 350w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/mint-chip-truck-350-320x300.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px" />Best Ice Cream:</strong></h2>
<h3><strong><a href="http://www.instagram.com/themintchip/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Mint Chip</a> </strong></h3>
<p>No matter where I am in the world, I will always seek out the best ice cream in town! Here is Anchorage’s best: handcrafted on-site, this cute little mint-green food truck serves some amazing organic ice cream. Owner Laura Aubry creates unique Alaskan frozen desserts, from ice cream to ‘ice lollies’ (popsicles). Keep an eye out for the truck!</p>
<h2><strong>Best specialty grocery store:</strong></h2>
<h4><a href="http://www.fromagioscheese.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fromagio&#8217;s Artisan Cheese</a></h4>
<p>For handcrafted cheeses and charcuterie, head to Fromagio’s Artisan Cheese. Along with their fine foods for sale, they offer a daily lunch menu of salads, cheese boards, sandwiches, and their signature dish: Fromagio’s mac and cheese.</p>
<h2><strong>Things to See &amp; Do in Anchorage</strong></h2>
<h4><a href="https://www.anchoragemuseum.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anchorage Museum</a></h4>
<p>The most diverse museum in the city, the Anchorage Museum showcases Alaskan heritage, artworks and landscape through both permanent and temporary displays. A new wing, the Rasmuson Wing Art of the North, features paintings, sculpture, photography, video and other media representing the land and people of the wild northern landscape through historical and contemporary exhibitions. Their interactive Discovery Centre offers hands-on learning through 80 exhibits; perfect for keeping the kids entertained.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39461 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/anchorage-museum-732px.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="382" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/anchorage-museum-732px.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/anchorage-museum-732px-480x250.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></p>
<h4><a href="https://www.alaskaairmuseum.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alaska Aviation Museum</a></h4>
<p>Learn about Alaska’s famed bush pilots and their trusty aircraft at the Alaska Aviation Museum located on Lake Hood, that biggest seaplane base in the world. Peruse their display of vintage planes, experience the thrill of flying via a full-immersion, Oculus Rift virtual reality flight simulator, and watch as seaplanes take-off and land from the control tower.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39463 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/alaska-aviation-museum-plane-732-1.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="259" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/alaska-aviation-museum-plane-732-1.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/alaska-aviation-museum-plane-732-1-480x170.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></p>
<h4><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39466 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/alaska-museum-dino-skull-350px.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="262" /><a href="https://www.alaskamuseum.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alaska Museum of Science and Nature</a></h4>
<p>See Alaska’s vast archaeological discoveries at the Museum of Science and Nature. Through exhibitions of dinosaur and marine life skeletons, replicas of Ice Age animals, and a collection of rocks and minerals unearth the state’s deep ecological, geographical, and cultural roots throughout various eras.</p>
<h4><a href="https://www.wellsfargohistory.com/museums/anchorage/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alaska Heritage Museum </a></h4>
<p>Discover the First Nations Culture and the settlers that followed at this museum dedicated to Alaska’s heritage and the Gold Rush Era. The largest private collection of its kind in Alaska, it features Alaskan native artifacts and fine arts along with historic Wells Fargo stagecoaches.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39464 aligncenter" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/alaska-museum-inuit-732px.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="277" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/alaska-museum-inuit-732px.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/alaska-museum-inuit-732px-480x182.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></p>
<h4><a href="http://www.facebook.com/dosmanosgallery/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-39465 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/dos-manos-store-250px.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="255" />Dos Manos</a></h4>
<p>Dos Manos is the best place to find works by First Nations artists and artisans. This small shop located in Midtown offers local and jewelry, home decor, clothing, paintings and other handmade goods as well as local artwork.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39449" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/anchorage-sun-1600px-1-903x600.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="638" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/anchorage-sun-1600px-1-903x600.jpg 903w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/anchorage-sun-1600px-1-452x300.jpg 452w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/anchorage-sun-1600px-1-768x510.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/anchorage-sun-1600px-1.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>


Insider's Guide to Anchorage

France

Bordeaux

<h2><b>People-Watching and Neighbourhood-Hopping</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mingle amongst the locals, taking advantage of Bordeaux&#8217;s typically mild climate on a <em>terrasse</em> or along the riverside. Make your way to the newly renovated Marché des Capucins on a weekend and mingle amongst the hipsters buying their farm-fresh produce in the nouveau district of Saint Michel, as you grab a light lunch and perhaps linger over an afternoon coffee. Immerse yourself in the cultural underground (literally!) of Bordeaux in the Bassins à Flot neighbourhood to check out a new cultural hub: <a href="https://www.bordeaux-tourism.co.uk/Discover-Bordeaux/What-do-you-feel-like/A-cultural-stay/The-Submarine-Base" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a former submarine base</a> originally from the Second World War, which has been transformed into modern and contemporary art, theatre and dance space. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Another example of the new Bordeaux, repurposing buildings and turning them into public spaces for good, the <a href="http://darwin.camp/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Darwin Ecosysteme</a> is a one-hectare collective space, located in former warehouses and military barracks, with an eye to creating an eco-friendly community open space, with a grocery store/restaurant, urban farm, a ‘bike polo field’, a BMX track, and an artists’ residence all open to the public.</span></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39105 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/darwin-skate-700-px.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="487" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/darwin-skate-700-px.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/darwin-skate-700-px-451x300.jpg 451w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Another thing Bordeaux boasts, which is completely unexpected, is the largest public skatepark in France. So make your way to the hip Chartrons neighbourhood, just by the Garonne, and get lost in the acrobatics—even more striking at magic hour, just before the sunsets.</span></p>


Bordeaux Nouveau: <Br> France's Coolest City Right Now

Must Sees

See + Do

<h2>Trace the Tour de France in the French Alps</h2>
<p>The peaks and passes of the gorgeous French Alps have been challenging people for centuries. With veering roads over steep grades, you can truly appreciate what it takes to ride in the Tour de France in the French Alps on a <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/start-planning/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">bespoke bike trip</a>. While the climb itself is a feat to remember, the outstanding views will make for an unforgettable journey. And, of course, no trip to the French Alps would be complete without a trip to the famous crystal-clear Lake Annecy.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-38648 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/French-Alps-embedded-image.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/French-Alps-embedded-image.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/French-Alps-embedded-image-480x287.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" /></p>
<h2>Venture into the Atlas Mountains of Morocco</h2>
<p>Morocco provides a variety of landscapes to traverse, from Berber villages to stunning oases. However, the true magic of Morocco lies in wandering the Atlas Mountains. The tranquillity and fresh air of the mountains are an escape from city life. Travel off the beaten path on our <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/morocco-walking/?mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiWmpZME9XVm1PVEZsT1dSaCIsInQiOiJTTks4MjBBYnpEXC84Z3Y4bmNnRHMxMWw2dk4reFZraEhCQnFTTmRtN1FRNlV4ZVJHNld1aTAyZkxYT1lyTlVtejdZYTRoZVwvWUJmcWtcLzBaeWNcL0RTV2c9PSJ9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Morocco Walking </a>trip where you will hike and dine in style every night.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-38649 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Morocco-embedded-image.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Morocco-embedded-image.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Morocco-embedded-image-480x287.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" /></p>
<h2>Experience the Yellow Mountains of China</h2>
<p>In modern Beijing there is so much to see and do; ride past hutongs, walk through Tiananmen Square and climb the Great Wall. But delve deeper than China&#8217;s bustling cities and you&#8217;ll discover magical sites like the Li River, scenic bamboo forests and the stunning. Yellow Mountains. On a <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/custom/china-bespoke/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">bespoke trip to China</a>, take time to appreciate the tranquil side of China while discovering mountain vistas overlooking infinite valleys that seem to stretch out forever.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-38650 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/China-embedded-image.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/China-embedded-image.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/China-embedded-image-480x287.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" /></p>
<h2>Trek Mount Etna in Sicily</h2>
<p>Centuries of civilizations have left their mark; rich in culture, art, gastronomy and architecture, Sicily has immense opportunities to offer. Along with a rich history, one of the oldest attractions in Sicily is Mount Etna. Found on the coast of Sicily, this active volcano is the highest summit at about 11,000 ft. It is truly a sight to behold, taking in the stark contrast of black lava amongst the evergreen pine forest.</p>
<p>We love a good hike as much as the next person but something we love just as much (if not more) is a spectacular wine tasting at the end of an adventurous day. On our <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/eastern-sicily-walking/?mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiWmpZME9XVm1PVEZsT1dSaCIsInQiOiJTTks4MjBBYnpEXC84Z3Y4bmNnRHMxMWw2dk4reFZraEhCQnFTTmRtN1FRNlV4ZVJHNld1aTAyZkxYT1lyTlVtejdZYTRoZVwvWUJmcWtcLzBaeWNcL0RTV2c9PSJ9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Eastern Sicily Walking</a> trip, we give you the best mix of adventure and wine that Sicily has to offer.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-38651 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Sicily-embedded-image.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Sicily-embedded-image.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Sicily-embedded-image-480x287.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" /></p>
<h2>Discover the Coastal Mountains of British Columbia</h2>
<p>British Columbia feels untouched by human hands. Hike through ancient groves of giant trees and climb the breathtaking Coastal Mountain range. With an amazing mix of rugged nature and inspiring culture, British Columbia will keep you captivated at every turn.</p>
<p>If you don’t feel like climbing, why not chairlift to the top of the mountain for a scenic hike and views of the surrounding peaks? Feel like biking the Valley Trail, or kayaking to Meares Island, or maybe just walking along endless beaches? All this and more is possible on our <a href="https://www.butterfield.com/trip/west-coast-multi-active-private/?mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiWmpZME9XVm1PVEZsT1dSaCIsInQiOiJTTks4MjBBYnpEXC84Z3Y4bmNnRHMxMWw2dk4reFZraEhCQnFTTmRtN1FRNlV4ZVJHNld1aTAyZkxYT1lyTlVtejdZYTRoZVwvWUJmcWtcLzBaeWNcL0RTV2c9PSJ9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">British Columbia Wilderness</a> trip where adventure awaits.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-38923 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BC-embedded-image-1.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BC-embedded-image-1.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BC-embedded-image-1-480x287.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" /></p>


Our Favourite Jaw-Dropping Mountain Ranges to Explore

Hotels

<h3><a href="https://titilaka.pe/en/lodge/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Titilaka Lodge, Puno</strong></a></h3>
<p>Walk into each room and pull the curtains aside: <em>voilà</em>—you’ve got a live nature documentary all to yourself, looking out with undisturbed views of Lake Titicaca. The hotel itself, a Relais &amp; Chateaux property, is very well-styled, with a great menu including local produce and even trout caught right in the lake. Sit out on the hotel patio and watch the sunset over Titicaca. With a pisco sour in hand, you can’t go wrong; the colours are stunning. High up at this elevation, the stars are also super bright and in abundance, so don’t forget to look up for a star-gaze session before you call it a night.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37687 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px.jpg" alt="titilaka lodge" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Titilaka-Lodge-Sunset-Lake-960px-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<h3><a href="https://www.explora.com/hotels-and-travesias/sacred-valley-peru/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Explora Lodge Valle Sagrado, Sacred Valley</strong></a></h3>
<p>Gorgeous views over the cornfields and the mountain vistas of the Sacred Valley, the property has its very own farmlands and grows crops nearby for the absolute freshest meals. Four-hundred-year-old Inca terraces were discovered on-site, and you are surrounded by them here. Located in one of the most remote haciendas in the Valley, the excellent hotel spa is located in a 17th c. colonial mansion that once belonged to a Peruvian independence hero. The lodge has a roaring fire to cozy up to with an alpaca blanket, and there&#8217;s also a pool, should you wish to have a dip.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-38168 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Hotel-explora-Valle-Sagrado-960px-compressedcompressed.jpg" alt="Peru" width="960" height="387" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Hotel-explora-Valle-Sagrado-960px-compressedcompressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Hotel-explora-Valle-Sagrado-960px-compressedcompressed-480x194.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Hotel-explora-Valle-Sagrado-960px-compressedcompressed-768x310.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<h3><a href="https://www.hotelsolyluna.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Sol y Luna, Urubamba, Sacred Valley</strong></a></h3>
<p>A gorgeous little place, the Sol y Luna has just upgraded their grounds to include a bigger pool. With all-private <em>casitas</em> (there are no rooms here), it feels like your own hideaway in the Sacred Valley. The location is excellent as well, as you can easily make your way to and from activities all throughout the valley. There’s also a school on-site for local children that guests can support with donations during their stay towards this educational endeavour for the local community.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37688 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed.jpg" alt="Sol y Luna" width="960" height="641" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed-449x300.jpg 449w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed-768x513.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Sol-Y-Luna-Pool-960px-compressed-899x600.jpg 899w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<h3><strong><a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/cuztl-tambo-del-inka-a-luxury-collection-resort-and-spa-valle-sagrado/?scid=cba116a5-7a93-4271-8658-c1cef149bc63&amp;ppc=ppc&amp;pId=ustbppc&amp;nst=paid&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwhaaKBhBcEiwA8acsHLWH9x26WuY0Fr7I9KDfn8-0JUM_p6ObsP8m2mQFJNfwhz2ehGIxpBoCTzAQAvD_BwE&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tambo del Inka, Sacred Valley</a></strong></h3>
<p>With Inca-inspired architecture, get into the Andean spirit in the Sacred Valley. I like this property for families or groups; the hotel’s many room styles and sizes mean you can find a configuration that works for you. With a dramatic stone fireplace in the lobby and large panoramic windows, you can gaze at the mountaintops on the horizon. The biggest spa in the Sacred Valley is located here, along with a much-coveted pool, should you want to take a dip.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37689 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tambo-del-Inka-pool-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="400" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tambo-del-Inka-pool-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Tambo-del-Inka-pool-732px-compressed-480x262.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></p>
<h3></h3>
<h3><a href="https://naturavive.com/web/skylodge-adventure-suites/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Bonus: Skylodge, Sacred Valley</strong></a></h3>
<p>This one-of-a-kind lodge is for the adventurous type only: perched on the side of a cliff overlooking the Sacred Valley, all guests must climb up a 400-metre via ferrata to access it, and zipline down on their way back! Not for the faint of heart or any sleepwalkers, each small capsule suite gives you a 300-degree view of the valley. The luxury here is being totally disconnected. A stay you’ll never forget!</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-37708 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Skylodge-by-visitor-732px-compressed.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="538" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Skylodge-by-visitor-732px-compressed.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Skylodge-by-visitor-732px-compressed-408x300.jpg 408w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></p>
<h3><a href="https://www.belmond.com/hotels/south-america/peru/lima/belmond-miraflores-park/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Miraflores Park, Lima</a></h3>
<p>A true urban sanctuary set in Lima&#8217;s bustling metropolis, Miraflores Park is only steps away from the city&#8217;s hottest restaurants, galleries and a breezy six-mile boardwalk. Although set in Peru&#8217;s cosmopolitan capital, the hotel itself is surrounded by historical hotspots, blooming gardens and nestled right next to the Pacific, so you truly get the best of both worlds. The perfect mix of glamour and tranquillity for an unforgettable stay.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-49895 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru.png" alt="Miraflores Park Peru" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru-480x300.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru-250x156.png 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Miraflores-Park-Peru-768x480.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<p>Feeling inspired to see and stay for yourself?<a href="https://butterfield.com/start-planning" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Get in touch with Veronika Macas</a> to see how she can craft your perfect trip to Peru.</p>


Top 10 Luxury Hotels <br> in Peru

Culture &amp; Lifestyle

Need to Know

Reading for the Road

B&amp;R Picks

Reading for the Road:<br> Our Favourite Books About Peru

Spain

<h2>4) Mallorca</h2>
<h4>Balearic Biking</h4>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mallorca’s legendary biking makes for a wonderful long ride along the coast, passing up and down the hills. From gorgeous lakes, you’ll sweep through wine country and the olive region of Caimari and Campanuet, the varied scenery a feast for the eyes. </span></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36632 aligncenter" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/CTLBB_20151004_SVI_PF_170-couple-960px-compressed.png" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/CTLBB_20151004_SVI_PF_170-couple-960px-compressed.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/CTLBB_20151004_SVI_PF_170-couple-960px-compressed-450x300.png 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/CTLBB_20151004_SVI_PF_170-couple-960px-compressed-768x512.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/CTLBB_20151004_SVI_PF_170-couple-960px-compressed-900x600.png 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<p><iframe loading="lazy" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/3/embed?mid=18Y1-lTmpyWAwVK7Pfky--m0c3sbbPCkq" width="640" height="480"></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Route:</strong>  <span style="font-weight: 400;">Deia to Pollenca</span><br />
<strong>Distance: </strong>68 km<br />
<strong>Recommended Activity Level: </strong> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Avid (4/5 Difficulty)</span><br />
<strong>Best time of year: <span style="font-weight: 400;">May-June; September-October</span></strong></p>
<h2>5) La Rioja</h2>
<h4>Century Ride through the Sierra Cantabria</h4>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Pedal past all of <a href="https://www.winerist.com/blog/entry/best-wineries-to-visit-in-rioja" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Rioja’s famous wineries</a> and architectural jewels. With the spectacular backdrop of the Sierra Cantabria mountains on one side, the fertile vineyards stretching out to the south, and the sparkling roof of the Marques de Riscal twinkling colourfully to greet you at the end of the ride.</span></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36647 aligncenter" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_063-LA-RIOJA-BIKING-960px-compressed.png" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_063-LA-RIOJA-BIKING-960px-compressed.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_063-LA-RIOJA-BIKING-960px-compressed-450x300.png 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_063-LA-RIOJA-BIKING-960px-compressed-768x512.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_063-LA-RIOJA-BIKING-960px-compressed-900x600.png 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<p><iframe loading="lazy" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/3/embed?mid=1FOmYH1cJyCnVaErQDi1hEB8bLVqpEvg_" width="640" height="480"></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Route: </strong> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Torremontalbo &#8211; Briones &#8211; Haro &#8211; Brinas &#8211; Bastida &#8211; Rivas de Tereso &#8211; San Vicente de la Sonsierra &#8211; Abalos &#8211; Samaniego &#8211; Paganos &#8211; Guardia &#8211; El Campillar &#8211; Logrono &#8211; Fuenmayor &#8211; end at Marques de Riscal (hotel)</span><br />
<strong>Distance: <span style="font-weight: 400;">102 km (63 miles)</span></strong><br />
<strong>Recommended Rider Level:</strong> Enthusiast (3/5 Difficulty)<br />
<strong>Best times to ride: <span style="font-weight: 400;">May; September-October</span></strong></p>
<h2>6) Madrid</h2>
<h4><strong>Pedal in the paths of the pros</strong></h4>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you’re up to the challenge, follow along with Spain’s top bike race, <a href="http://www.lavuelta.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Vuelta</a>, and pedal like you&#8217;re a pro-possessed. This stage from the 2015 race will take you from the outskirts right into the city of Madrid. </span></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36649 aligncenter" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_010-SpainGeneric-960px-compressed.png" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_010-SpainGeneric-960px-compressed.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_010-SpainGeneric-960px-compressed-450x300.png 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_010-SpainGeneric-960px-compressed-768x512.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_010-SpainGeneric-960px-compressed-900x600.png 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<p><iframe loading="lazy" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/3/embed?mid=1atnzluaE1SxvR39whpN2wsoTYgmB39e2" width="640" height="480"></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Route:</strong> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Alcala de Henares-Torreon de Ardoz-San Fernando de Henares-Coslada, Vicalvaro-Madrid</span><br />
<strong>Distance: <span style="font-weight: 400;">98.8 km</span></strong><br />
<strong>Recommended Rider Level:</strong> Enthusiast (3/5 Difficulty)<br />
<strong>Best times to ride: <span style="font-weight: 400;">May, September-October</span></strong></p>
<h2>7) Andalucia</h2>
<h4><strong>Southern Spain Mountain Climb</strong></h4>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Some of the most stunning rides are in the south of Spain. Ride through the mountains of Grazalema through a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sierra_de_Grazalema_Natural_Park" target="_blank" rel="noopener">protected natural park</a>, rich in wildlife. Home to many colonies of vultures, you may even see the endangered Egyptian vulture if your eyes are up to the task! </span></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-36646 aligncenter" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_041-FAUXSIERRA-cantabria-960px-cmopressed.png" alt="" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_041-FAUXSIERRA-cantabria-960px-cmopressed.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_041-FAUXSIERRA-cantabria-960px-cmopressed-450x300.png 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_041-FAUXSIERRA-cantabria-960px-cmopressed-768x512.png 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/RJABS_10072012_PHA_PF_041-FAUXSIERRA-cantabria-960px-cmopressed-900x600.png 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<p><iframe loading="lazy" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/3/embed?mid=1d1SQzzelrYc5ecvwX583R3SLrmG1KCAM" width="640" height="480"></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Route:</strong> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Ronda to Grazalema via Benaojan and Montejaque</span><br />
<strong>Distance: </strong>40 km<br />
<strong>Recommended Rider Level:</strong> Enthusiast (3/5 Difficulty)<br />
<strong>Best times to ride: <span style="font-weight: 400;">May-June, September-October</span></strong></p>
<h2>Ready to Ride?</h2>
<p>Browse our full portfolio of <a href="http://www.butterfield.com/tripfinder/?fr=Spain&amp;fa=Biking" target="_blank" rel="noopener">bike trips in Spain</a> or feel free to reach out to our <a href="http://www.butterfield.com/private-travel/#5" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bespoke travel team</a> to plan a custom bike trip of your own!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>


The 7 Best Cycling Routes in Spain

Accolades

Passion Passport

Amazon

Arequipa

Colca Canyon

Lake Titicaca

Paracas

Trujillo

Five Must-Visit Locales in Peru

Africa and Middle East

Morocco

<h1><strong>Where to Eat and Drink</strong></h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Have a drink at the decadent and palatial <a href="http://www.mamounia.com/en/">La Mamounia </a>at cocktail hour. Expensive, yes&#8230;but legendary!</span></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-35057 aligncenter" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/la-mamounia-732c.png" alt="" width="732" height="488" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/la-mamounia-732c.png 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/la-mamounia-732c-450x300.png 450w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Walk all around the Guéliz, along the Rue de la Liberté or Rue de Yougoslavie, have a mint tea on the terrace of <a href="http://www.renaissance-hotel-marrakech.com/EN/hotel.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Renaissance</a></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and, why not a juicy steak for dinner at <a href="http://www.lestudiomarrakech.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Le Studio</a>?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Take a leisurely walk in the quiet neighbourhood of La Kasbah and enjoy a lunch at <a href="https://www.lasultanahotels.com/p/marrakech" target="_blank" rel="noopener">La Sultana</a></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">, all far from the bustle and frenzy of the rest of the <em>medina</em>.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-35053 alignright" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/atlasmtn-350c.png" alt="" width="350" height="263" />For a taste of real Moroccan cooking just like at home, have dinner at <a href="https://alfassia.com/restaurants/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Al Fassia</a>. The mostly female staff have been cooking traditional cuisine for over 25 years here, and you will not be disappointed.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Get out of the city for a bit of fresh air, and drive out to the <a href="http://kasbahtoubkal.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kasbah du Toubkal</a> for lunch with a view. Located in the foothills of the Atlas mountains, even director Martin Scorsese himself (who visited when he was shooting <em>Kundun</em>) considers these spectacular surroundings some of the best views in the world. </span></p>
<h1>Where to Stay</h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rest your head in style at the <a href="http://www.riadfarnatchi.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Riad Farnatchi</a>. Don’t miss out on their fantastic spa, including an upscale Moroccan hammam. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Head into the desert for an unforgettable experience: sleep under the stars at the <a href="http://www.scarabeocamp.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Scarabeo Camp</a>. It&#8217;s almost like travelling back in time, but with a luxurious feel instead of a dusty expedition.</span></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-35045 aligncenter" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/desert-960c.png" alt="" width="960" height="532" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/desert-960c.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/desert-960c-480x266.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/desert-960c-768x426.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>


Europe

Portugal

<h2><strong>The Kiosks of Lisbon</strong></h2>
<p>Just about every visitor to Lisbon wonders why not every city has the <em>quiosques de refrescos</em>—‘refreshment kiosks’—that are ubiquitous in Lisbon’s numerous parks and squares. Chalk it up to year-round pleasant weather. Decent snacks and sandwiches, fresh juices, good espresso coffee, draft beer, and even cocktails are available in these heavenly convenient establishments. You’ll find yourself exclaiming to the Lisboans that they have no idea how good they have it!</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-34304 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/kiosk_lisbon_rachelbickley_960_c.png" alt="" width="960" height="539" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/kiosk_lisbon_rachelbickley_960_c.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/kiosk_lisbon_rachelbickley_960_c-480x270.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/kiosk_lisbon_rachelbickley_960_c-768x431.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<h2><strong>Neighbourhood Churrascarias</strong></h2>
<p>If you’re the kind of eater who likes to visit traditional establishments, places whose doors you walk through to feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, try visiting a neighborhood churrascaria—or grill. The Churrasco da Graça in the Graça neighborhood is one such place: white paper tablecloths, TV on in the corner, tables full of locals. Get your fix of traditional <em>bacalhau</em> (codfish), grilled sardines, and roast chicken. You may need to gesture to make your order, but you will leave satisfied!</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-34251 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/churrasco_da_graca_alessandrorossini_732_c.png" alt="" width="732" height="436" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/churrasco_da_graca_alessandrorossini_732_c.png 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/churrasco_da_graca_alessandrorossini_732_c-480x286.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></p>
<h2><a href="http://www.atirateaorio.pt/">Atira-te ao Rio</a>, Cacilhas</h2>
<p>The many hills in Lisbon make for spectacular views across the Tagus. But to see the city from afar you need to cross the river, and there’s no better way to do it than by ferry on your way to eat at Atira-te ao Rio. Ferries run from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas about every 15 minutes. Once you’re on the other side, a short walk alongside abandoned riverside warehouses will bring you to this little restaurant set by the water’s edge. The view and the setting is what makes this place so special. And the food? It’s simple, traditional and tasty. Nibble on tuna pâté, olives, bread and olive butter before the codfish stew or Portuguese steak arrives.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-34254 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/lisbon_sunset_960_C.png" alt="" width="960" height="540" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/lisbon_sunset_960_C.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/lisbon_sunset_960_C-480x270.png 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/lisbon_sunset_960_C-768x432.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>


Resto

Travel Tips

Maido

Mitsuharu Tsumura

<h5>Starting From the Bottom</h5>
<p>In Peru, Mitsuharu was an up and coming young chef with a fancy degree from America. In Japan, he was an unknown entity with no local experience to speak of.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-31832" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-dishes-320x300.jpg" alt="maido-mitsuharu-tsumura-dishes" width="320" height="300" />But if nothing else – and there was, truly, nothing else – he had a connection. His grandparents, who still lived in Japan, introduced him to a man named Mr. Hirai, the owner of a well known restaurant called Seto Sushi.</p>
<p>After watching him filet fish, Mr. Hirai agreed to give Mitsuharu a job. The pay was nonexistent and the work gruelling. It was a start.</p>
<p>For four months Mitsuharu showed up everyday to wash dishes, never so much as touching a knife. After establishing himself as a competent dishwasher, he was elevated to the post of knife sharpener. Eventually he became proficient enough to sharpen knives for every chef in the restaurant, a huge honour by the standards of Japanese restaurants.</p>
<p>Though he was still miles away from being able to prepare food for the restaurant, in Japan everything has a purpose. While he wasn’t yet making sushi, he was watching, observing the masters, and learning patience and discipline. It was a quintessentially Japanese apprenticeship.</p>
<h5><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-31836" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-knife.jpg" alt="maido-mitsuharu-tsumura-knife" width="350" height="236" />Working His Way Up</h5>
<p>Around this time, he started practicing his own knife skills. To master the fine art of sushi making he would practice on rice and gherkins, preparing thousands of them to hone his skills.</p>
<p>He continued to work his way up the ladder at Seto, taking over responsibility for receiving and cleaning seafood. This eventually led to filleting and preparing fish, cooking rice for the staff’s meals and working behind the bar, until one day, two years after arriving in Japan, he had finally earned his keep.</p>
<p>Mitsuharu began to make sushi.</p>
<hr />
<h2>Pulled Back to Peru</h2>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-31838" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-dish.jpg" alt="maido-mitsuharu-tsumura-dish" width="350" height="236" />He stayed in Japan for eight more months perfecting his craft until one day Mitsuharu felt the pull of his native Peru beckoning him back home.</p>
<p>The Sheraton Lima, where he had interned years ago, invited him to return as a member of their chef team, where he began his journey up the hotel’s ranks.</p>
<p>And now here he was, three years after returning to Peru and on the precipice of the hotel’s highest position, feeling conflicted.</p>
<figure id="attachment_31839" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-31839" style="width: 275px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-31839" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-exterior.jpg" alt="Maido" width="275" height="412" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-exterior.jpg 275w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-exterior-200x300.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 275px) 100vw, 275px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-31839" class="wp-caption-text">Maido</figcaption></figure>
<h5>A Conundrum Turned Culmination</h5>
<p>Again he turned to his father for advice and again his father was stern and resolute – but this time, he had very different advice for his son.</p>
<p>“Son, you have proved to be a good worker and I am going to invest in you,” he said. “Open your restaurant, I will support you.”</p>
<p>Today that restaurant is <a href="http://www.maido.pe/en/index.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Maido</a>, where Mitsuhara draws from his experience and heritage to prepare Japanese and Peruvian dishes, telling a story with each plate he serves.</p>
<p>In 2016, Mitsuhara and Maido landed at <a href="http://www.theworlds50best.com/list/1-50-winners/Maido" target="_blank" rel="noopener">number 13</a> on the coveted World’s 50 Best Restaurants list (<a href="http://www.theworlds50best.com/latinamerica/en/the-list.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">and number 2 in Latin America</a>), winning the <a href="http://www.theworlds50best.com/awards/highest-climber-sponsored-by-lavazza" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Highest Climber Award</a> in the process.</p>
<p>He’s come a long way since that conundrum.</p>
<hr />
<h2>Prime Your Peruvian Palate</h2>
<p>Fortunately, you don&#8217;t need to spend two years apprenticing at a Japanese sushi restaurant to develop a taste for Mitsuhara&#8217;s cooking.</p>
<p>He&#8217;s generously provided us with the below recipe for Amazonic Beans, which you can try preparing at home.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-31841" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-beans.jpg" alt="maido-mitsuharu-tsumura-beans" width="752" height="452" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-beans.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Maido-Mitsuharu-Tsumura-beans-480x289.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" /></p>
<h3>Amazonic Beans</h3>
<p><strong>Serves 4</strong></p>
<h4>Ingredients</h4>
<h5>For beans:</h5>
<p>Avocado Cream 60 gr (RB)<br />
Sauteed beans 60 gr (RB)<br />
Sweet Quince 12 cubed<br />
Grain Soil 8 gr (RB)<br />
Ponzu gel 4 gr (RB)<br />
Crispy Quinoa 12 units (RB)<br />
Sprouts and flowers</p>
<h5>For avocado cream:</h5>
<p>1 Clean avocado<br />
Dashi 80 ml (RB)<br />
Cilantro 8 gr<br />
Salt 4 gr<br />
Juice of 3 lemons</p>
<h5>For Dashi (1/2 litre):</h5>
<p>1/2 Lt. Water<br />
6 gr Kombu<br />
10 gr Katsuobushi</p>
<h5>For sauteed beans:</h5>
<p>Regional cooked beans 60gr<br />
Or any beans you like.<br />
Chopped red onion inbrunoise 8gr<br />
Chopped garlic in brunoise 4 gr<br />
Chopped ginger 4 gr<br />
Sesame oil 20 ml<br />
Salt<br />
Pepper</p>
<h5>For the Sweet Quince:</h5>
<p>Quince 200 gr<br />
White sugar 100 gr<br />
Cinnamon 2 gr<br />
Water 200 ml</p>
<h5>For the Grain Soil:</h5>
<p>Ground coffee 35 gr<br />
Honey 50 gr<br />
flour 20 gr<br />
Unsalted butter 15 gr</p>
<h5>Ponzu Gel (250 gr):</h5>
<p>Ponzu 250 ml<br />
Xantana 2 gr</p>
<p>Crispy Quinoa (20 units )<br />
Black Quinoa 50 gr</p>
<h4>Instructions</h4>
<h5>For Avocado Cream:</h5>
<p>In a blender add all the ingredients and process until you get a smooth cream. Reserve cold.</p>
<h5>For Dashi:</h5>
<p>Hydrate the kombu in water for 12 hours. In a saucepan place the water with kombu to medium heat until it reaches 80 degrees C° and after reaching this temperature add the katsuobushi and put out the fire. Leave to infuse for 20 minutes with the lid on. After 20 minutes, strain with a thin gauze to prevent remains.</p>
<h5>For Sauteed Beans:</h5>
<p>In a pan saute the garlic with the onion, the ginger and the cooked beans for about 2 minutes and season with salt and pepper, add the sesame oil and put out the fire. Reserve cold.</p>
<h5>For the Sweet Quince:</h5>
<p>Clean the quince and cut into 1-cm cubes, with the excess of quince make an infusion with cinnamon and reserve. In a pan make a syrup with water and sugar and add the cubes of quince with the previous infusion and cook for 3 minutes. Reserve cold.</p>
<h5>For the Grain Soil:</h5>
<p>Temper the butter. Crush the Chulpi corn until obtain a kind of coarse ground. In a bowl mix all ingredients until you have a kind of dough. Spread the dough on a plate and bake at 150 degrees C. for 10 minutes. Remove, let cool and keep in a sealed container.</p>
<h5>For the Ponzu gel:</h5>
<p>With a mixer blend the ingredients until the Ponzu take gel texture. Reserve cold.</p>
<h5>For the Crispy Quinoa:</h5>
<p>In a blender place the Quinoa with little water and blend until completely ground, place the mixture in a pan and cook for 10 minutes over medium heat. Roll out the mixture on a Silpat , try to stretch as thin as possible and bake at 120 degrees for approximately 30 minutes. Reserve in a dry place.</p>
<p>In a cold dish place as a base a line of avocado cream. On top of the avocado cream place the sauteed beans simulating a kind of garden. Embed the crispy quinoa on the avocado and placed the quince´s cubes. Finish the plating putting Ponzu gel drops and grain soil and decorate with flowers and sprouts.</p>
<p>Serve cold.</p>


At Lima's Maido Restaurant,<br> a Nikkei with a Knife <br>– and a Vision

<h3 class="List_0020Paragraph"><span class="List_0020Paragraph__Char">Plaza de Armas</span></h3>
<p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char">Pictured here and in the banner above, the Plaza in Cusco was the centre of the Incan Empire.</span></p>
<p class="Normal"><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-31139" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-Plaza-De-Armas-1.jpg" alt="Things-to-do-in-Cusco-Plaza-De-Armas (1)" width="752" height="450" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-Plaza-De-Armas-1.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-Plaza-De-Armas-1-480x287.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" /></p>
<p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char">Here administrative, military, and political decisions were made. In its heyday the plaza was double its current size, though today it is the bustling centre of modern Cusco. </span></p>
<h5 class="List_0020Paragraph"></h5>
<figure id="attachment_31135" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-31135" style="width: 400px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-31135" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-Plaza-De-Armas-450x300.jpg" alt="Things to do in Cusco Iglesia La Compania de Jesus" width="400" height="267" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-Plaza-De-Armas-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-Plaza-De-Armas.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-31135" class="wp-caption-text">Iglesia La Compania de Jesus</figcaption></figure>
<h5 class="List_0020Paragraph"><span class="List_0020Paragraph__Char">Iglesia La Compania de Jesus</span></h5>
<p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char">A 16<span class="Normal__Char">thC</span> historical church located on the other side of the Plaza de Armas, this church rivals the Cusco Cathedral in terms of prominence in Plaza de Armas.</span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char">It is a marriage of Incan and Baroque architecture. Featuring the largest altar in Peru, it also houses several notable paintings.</span></p>
<h5 class="List_0020Paragraph"><span class="List_0020Paragraph__Char">Cusco Cathedral</span></h5>
<p class="List_0020Paragraph"><strong>aka Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin</strong></p>
<p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char">Located in the centre of Cusco at the Plaza de Armas, this cathedral took almost 100 years to complete. </span>Since its completion in 1654 it has received minor Basilica Status and was designated a <a href="http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/273" target="_blank">UNESCO World Heritage Site</a> in 1983.</p>
<p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char">The Cathedral now houses a large collection of Cusco’s colonial art, relics, and archeological pieces.</span></p>
<h3 class="List_0020Paragraph"><span class="List_0020Paragraph__Char">San Blas</span></h3>
<p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-31143" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-San-Blas-400x300.jpg" alt="Things-to-do-in-Cusco-San-Blas" width="400" height="300" />North of the Plaza de Armas, San Blas is one of Cusco’s most picturesque neighbourhoods.</span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char">This pedestrian-only area of Cusco is great for exploring the ancient stone streets. A creative hub, be sure to take note of the artist workshops and studios as well.</span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char">Travellers can take the old Incan Road up many steps to ‘great stone street’ and see the famed 12-angled stone, a marvel of stonework set into the best kept Incan walls in Cusco.</span></p>
<h3><span class="List_0020Paragraph__Char">San Francisco</span></h3>
<p>Wander to the Plaza San Francisco and visit the church and monastery, which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries.</p>
<h3><span class="List_0020Paragraph__Char">Santa Catalina Convent</span></h3>
<p>This convent houses a colonial and religious art museum that includes an interesting collection from the Cusco school of paintings. The wall paintings on the first floor are unique to the convent.</p>
<h3 class="List_0020Paragraph"><span class="List_0020Paragraph__Char">San Pedro Market</span></h3>
<p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright size-full wp-image-31145" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-San-Pedro-Market.jpg" alt="Things-to-do-in-Cusco-San-Pedro-Market" width="400" height="250" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-San-Pedro-Market.jpg 400w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-San-Pedro-Market-250x156.jpg 250w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" />Experience the real people of Cusco and take in their customs in one of the most authentic Peruvian markets.</span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char">Natives to Cusco shop at the San Pedro Market as you can find anything here, from fresh fruits, vegetables, grains and meats, to flowers of every colour and handmade alpaca clothing.</span></p>
<p class="Normal"><span class="Normal__Char">Feeling bold? Pay a visit to the &#8220;magic man&#8221; for some shamanistic ritual items.</span></p>
<h3><span class="List_0020Paragraph__Char">Museo de Historia Regional</span></h3>
<p>This museum houses a great collection of Incan and pre-Incan artifacts. Its second floor houses a collection of the Cuzco School of Colonial Art.</p>
<h3></h3>
<hr />
<h2>Just Outside of Town</h2>
<p>While there&#8217;s plenty of things to do in Cusco itself, those willing to venture outside the city limits can experience a few of the charming and fascinating villages that surround it.</p>
<h3></h3>
<figure id="attachment_31147" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-31147" style="width: 400px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-31147 size-full" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-andahuaylillas.jpg" alt="Things to do in Cusco Andahuaylillas" width="400" height="350" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-andahuaylillas.jpg 400w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-andahuaylillas-343x300.jpg 343w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-31147" class="wp-caption-text">The chapel in Andahuaylillas</figcaption></figure>
<h3><span class="List_0020Paragraph__Char">Andahuaylillas</span></h3>
<p>A little further afield (45 km from Cusco), this pretty Andean village is famous for its magnificent 17thC chapel, known as the Capella sixtina del Ande.</p>
<p>Under the auspices of <a href="https://www.wmf.org/project/san-pedro-ap%C3%B3stol-de-andahuaylillas-church" target="_blank">the World Monuments Fund</a>, the church is not always open, but the caretaker will open it for you; if you cannot find him, the town itself is worth a visit.</p>
<h3><span class="List_0020Paragraph__Char">Pikillacta &amp; Rumicolca</span></h3>
<p>Pikillacta is a pre-Incan Wari settlement 30 km (19 mi.) south of Cusco that dates back to the 11th century. The Incas built the gate of Rumicolca on top of another Wari structure just one kilometre away, and the contrast between the two is worth seeing.</p>
<h3><span class="List_0020Paragraph__Char">Tipon</span></h3>
<p>This is a magnificent series of water canals and Incan terraces located in the south-eastern Cusco Valley, approximately 25 km (16 mi.) from Cusco proper.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-31149" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-Tipon.jpg" alt="Things-to-do-in-Cusco-Tipon" width="752" height="220" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-Tipon.jpg 752w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Things-to-do-in-Cusco-Tipon-480x140.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" /></p>
<hr />
<h2>And a Few Reminders&#8230;</h2>
<p>Though a beautiful town, Cusco has a reputation for pickpockets, so please be careful. It is best to carry valuables in front of you, not on your back, and watch your pockets.</p>
<p>Also note that Cusco&#8217;s charming cobblestoned streets are best traversed in comfortable shoes like runners or hikers.</p>


<span>Insider's Guide:</span><br> 13 Things to Do in<br> (and around) Cusco

The Telegraph

Beyond Machu Picchu: Amazing ways to see Peru

<span>Experts + Insiders:<br></span> Amanda Gary

Profiles

<span>Experts + Insiders:</span><br> Veronika Macas

In Pictures

<span>In Pictures:</span><br> My Week in Peru 

Doctor's Review

Food to Travel For

Simply the Best Magazine

Butterfield & Robinson partners with SAVEUR

The New York Times

Friday’s Travel News: In Transit

Travel Weekly

SAVEUR, Butterfield partner to launch foodie-themed tours

STYLE

Looking for a Summer Escape to Peru

Christmas vacations

USA Today

Explore Machu Picchu and Peru

Columnists

Colombia: An Explorer's Paradise

Colombia

<p>But as history unfolded, this didn&#8217;t prove to be so. <a title="Francisco Pizarro " href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francisco_Pizarro" target="_blank">Pizarro </a>and the boys stopped in on their way to Peru in search of glory and gold, the coca crop business brought a lot of pain and suffering to the country, and miles of jungle made the land hard to inhabit. So, when I landed in Bogota on a recent research trip, I expected an ancient world.</p>
<figure id="attachment_17887" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-17887" style="width: 320px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-17887" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Bogota2-320x213.jpg" alt="Colombia" width="320" height="213" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Bogota2-320x213.jpg 320w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Bogota2-124x82.jpg 124w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Bogota2.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-17887" class="wp-caption-text">In Bogota I found a city electric and alive.</figcaption></figure>
<p>What I found was a country emergent, with brand new buildings and bike lanes in Bogota, a restaurant scene that rivals some of my favourite New York City neighbourhoods and hotels that blew me away.</p>
<p>There are a few places in Bogota that tip their hats to the old world, but on the whole, the place is buzzing with modernity.</p>
<p>Outside of the city, a tough domestic policy on the cocaine trade over the past few years has cracked down on cartels who were once more powerful than small European countries, making it much easier (and of course, safer) to move from region to region.</p>
<p>And since the Spanish only made it to Cartagena, Bogota and a few other locales,  the majority of the places I went on my recent trip had not been peopled for a couple of hundred years—making for some truly exceptional exploring!</p>
<p><a title="Colombia: An Explorer's Paradise Part I" href="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/2014/04/15/colombia-explorers-paradise-i/" target="_blank"><strong>Click here to read Tyler&#8217;s travel diary chronicling his trip.</strong></a></p>
<hr />
<p>&nbsp;</p>


<span>Colombia:</span><br>Undiscovered <br>and Emergent

Places on the Verge

<span>Places on the Verge:</span><br> An Evolution and Education

Regional Delicacies

Ecuador And Galapagos Islands

<h2>A Recipe for Ceviche</h2>
<h5><a href="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/2013/08/28/ceviche-mysterious-origins-diverse-flavour/ceviche_sized/" rel="attachment wp-att-14687"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-14687" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Ceviche_sized-320x320.jpg" alt="Ceviche" width="320" height="320" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Ceviche_sized-320x320.jpg 320w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Ceviche_sized.jpg 424w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" /></a>Ingredients</h5>
<p>1 pound snapper fillets<br />
12 lemons, juiced<br />
1 large diced onion<br />
2 finely chopped red chilies<br />
3 Tbsp chopped coriander<br />
1/2 cup popped corn<br />
Salt and pepper</p>
<h5>Instructions</h5>
<p>Place the fish into a large glass bowl and pour the lemon juice over the fish. Stir in the onion, chilies and seasonings. Leave in the refrigerator for 4 hours and serve chilled with popped corn on side.</p>
<p>*<em>The Empire Strike Back</em>, obviously.</p>


<span>Ceviche:</span><br> Mysterious Origins, <br>Diverse Flavour

Know Before You Go

<h3>Peru with B&amp;R</h3>
<p><strong>I know B&amp;R offers <a title="Peru Trips " href="http://www.butterfield.com/where-we-go/latin-america/peru/" target="_blank"><strong>a collection of trips in Peru</strong></a>. What can I expect to see when I travel to Peru with B&amp;R?</strong><br />
If I just said &#8220;everything,&#8221; I wouldn&#8217;t be far off. We hike along Inca trails through a lush valley, contemplating locals working in their corn and potato fields. We get active, with activities like horseback riding, and relaxed, chilling in a spa. We explore ancient ruins both famous and lesser known, walk through gorgeous ancient salt mines, admire the jungle (orchids!) while hiking our way to Machu Picchu and we stroll down the lively streets of Cusco.</p>
<p><strong><img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-10974 alignleft" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Peru_inset-212x320.jpg" alt="Peru Travel Tips" width="212" height="320" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Peru_inset-212x320.jpg 212w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Peru_inset.jpg 424w" sizes="(max-width: 212px) 100vw, 212px" />How vigorous is the walking?</strong><br />
The hike to Machu Picchu can be challenging, as can the hike to Pumamarca and to the top of Machu Picchu Mountain. The other walks on our itineraries are moderate and you can often choose either the longer or shorter option based on your ability. However, you may find that the effects of the altitude make the walks take longer than they normally would. You&#8217;ll also have stairs or steps to contend with on many hikes.</p>
<p><strong>What should I pack?</strong><br />
Bring appropriate clothing! Climate varies from very cool evenings in the altiplano to quite warm and moist near Machu Picchu. You&#8217;ll want everything from light cotton, shorts and hiking pants, to warm layers (fleece, hat and gloves) and rain gear, along with a comfortable pair of hiking shoes. A hat for the sun and bug spray are also helpful. Our trips are casual. You can bring something nice if you&#8217;d like for first and final nights, but anything too fancy may make you feel out of place.</p>
<p>According to <a title="Peru Rail's Luggage Policy " href="http://www.perurail.com/tickets_baggage.php" target="_blank">Peru Rail&#8217;s luggage policy</a>, on the train to Machu Picchu each traveller can only bring one small backpack and one piece of hand luggage no bigger than 157 cm (62 inches) in length, weight and width and weighing less than 5 kg (11 pounds). The size is similar to the handbags we are allowed to bring on planes. So, travellers will need luggage that fits those parameters for the portion of the trip that goes to Machu Picchu.</p>


<span>Know Before You Go:</span><br> Peru Travel Tips

Testimonials

Trip Tales

In Peru, New Friends <br>& New Experiences

Chef Q&amp;A

Cuisine

<p><strong>How has this diverse travel experience influenced you as a chef?</strong><br />
It’s given me a broader “colour palette” to paint with… or in my case, cook with. I’ve seen so many flavours and ways of combining them that it makes it more fun for me in the moment I have to create and cook a recipe. Also I’ve been in different kinds of kitchens with different traditions and different people; each place, each person I’ve met has given me something that has led to the way I enjoy expressing myself by cooking.</p>
<p><strong>As a chef, how would you describe yourself, your methods and your cooking philosophy?</strong><br />
I cook in a mindful (conscious) way: being one with my breathing and one with the act of cooking. For me it goes beyond satisfying the taste buds. My aim is to bring pleasure, but also well-being. I cook as well in accordance with the <a title="Slow Food" href="http://www.slowfood.com/" target="_blank">Slow Food movement</a>, I like to use traditional methods. I like to be in touch with the land, grow the food I cook and eat in an organic way, and I like to be in contact with the caretakers who grow food. I use organic and sustainable products as much as I can. The food I prepare is mainly seasonal and not only tastes good, but is deliciously healthy. I believe what Hippocrates said: “Let food be thy medicine, and medicine thy food.”</p>
<figure id="attachment_8400" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-8400" style="width: 195px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Brisa3.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-8400 " src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Brisa3.jpg" alt="Brisa Deneumostier" width="195" height="274" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-8400" class="wp-caption-text">Brisa embraces Peru&#8217;s natural splendour in both her life and her cooking.</figcaption></figure>
<p><strong>Let&#8217;s talk about Peruvian cuisine. What defines it?<br />
</strong>Peru’s geography makes this place a paradise of biodiversity. Such a variety of products come from the coast, the Andes and the Amazon, providing regional cuisines from different areas of Peru. These days more of our ingredients are being recognized abroad, like the Andean grains (quinua, kiwicha and cañihua) and more varieties of our potatoes, of which there are thousands, along with organic cacao and coffee. Our ceviche is the dish most known abroad and the dish Peruvians feel most proud of, but I must say that the ceviche we eat today is the result of more than 500 years of fusion between different cultures in Peru, which is manifested as well in our gastronomy, which has influences from Spanish, Moorish, African, Chinese and Japanese traditions.</p>
<p><strong>As a chef, how do you apply your own unique spin or interpretation to Peruvian food?</strong><br />
I use as many organic and sustainable products as I can and use a variety of Peruvian ingredients, including aromatic and medicinal herbs and plants, which add tasty flavours as well to food. Some wild edible ingredients will be foraged nearby, depending on the year and where I’ll cook. The methods of cooking and the way of combining food will be always done in a mindful way, using as inspiration the methods I’ve seen in different parts of Peru and the world.</p>


peru

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