CIRQA
Place:
Arequipa, Peru
Placemakers:
Ignacio Masias
Ethos:
An Andean idyll that intentionally blends ancient roots and contemporary style
To step into the stunning sillar stone edifice of CIRQA is to step back in time.
Located in the historic center of Arequipa in a UNESCO protected site, CIRQA is housed in a former monastery that dates back to 1540. Inspired by the way monks once graciously welcomed faraway travelers into these walls, CIRQA pays homage to its heritage by carrying forward the same tradition of warm Peruvian hospitality today.
The property’s eleven rooms offer a unique blend of original volcanic rock architecture with contemporary nuance. Centered around the main terraza and patio (with a heated plunge pool), no two rooms are the same – some don restored high-vaulted ceilings, while others offer views of the local landscape. The perfect place to acclimatize to the Andean altitude, this forgone Parador serves as a soulful invitation to explore Peru’s second largest city.
Arequipa is the heart of the southern travel circuit and home to three volcanoes, colorful monasteries, and colonial cobblestone streets. Also known as the White City, it’s known for its unique art, history, and design; spend hours wandering the enchanting city streets, or plan a half or full-day expedition into the expansive surrounding landscape.
Nearby Chilina Valley is known for world-class rafting, hiking, biking, as well as tours of the sillar quarries, while Aguada Bianca National Park promises salt flats and high-altitude plains, where you can catch sight of vicuñas, guanacos, flamingos, and other native wildlife.
Upon return, venture to the rooftop restaurant, El Techo de CIRQA. Embodying the spirit of a historic Picanteria, or Arequipenean road-stop, reverence for local tradition is at the heart of the gastronomy – plus, there’s no better toast than to the sun setting behind a snow-capped volcano.
Particulars:
11 Rooms
Terraza
Rooftop restaurant
Patio with heated plunge pool
Massage room
24-hour concierge
The Conservatory Exclusives:
Use code CONSERVATORY at checkout to receive your 10% discount
Curated welcome amenity (at property’s discretion)
Room upgrades based on availability
