El Albergue Ollantaytambo

Although the train station outside can be chaotic, step into the reception and you’ll instantly feel a sense of calm. El Albergue doesn’t strive to be pretentious; instead, it’s all about personalised service, a cosy atmosphere and superb eats. The interiors are simple but charming and feature paintings by owner Wendy Weeks. The gardens are gorgeous and serene, breakfast is wholesome, and the café, restaurant and bar, managed by Wendy’s son, serve the best and freshest dishes in town.

With only 16 rooms, El Albergue is charming and intimate. The rustic décor features plenty of dark wood, regional artworks and natural fabrics and the views of the surrounding mountains are dreamy from just about every balcony. Superior and Double Plus rooms are located away from the train platform, concealed within the hotel’s gardens, while standard rooms enjoy sights of excited travellers on their way to Machu Picchu. There’s also a newer Casita accommodation featuring two bedrooms, a bathroom and private kitchen with dining area - perfect for families.

The hotel is within walking distance of Ollantaytambo archaeological site, but offers plenty of other tours (private driver and guide included) to check out the other sights along the valley - Moray, Maras, and the Sacred Valley brewery to name a few. Not to be missed, however, is the hotel’s Pachamanca lunch, which includes a visit to the organic garden, distillery and coffee roasting facility. And of course, no need to remind you that the hotel is right on the train tracks that lead straight to Machu Picchu.