CIRQA - Relais & Châteaux

Flaunting original sillar rock walls and awe-inspiring architecture, CIRQA embodies Arequipa tradition and design and honours the city’s characteristic white lustre. The minimalist yet chic décor is exquisite, and carries through to the Salón’s gastronomic offering: a seasonal menu focusing on simplicity while bursting with local picantería flavours. The courtyard has a heated plunge pool and fluffy alpaca fleeces beside cosy braziers - perfect for some late afternoon down time - and the rooftop terrace, with its stunning views of the city and surrounding volcanoes, was made for sunset cocktails.

With only 11 rooms, CIRQA offers a truly exclusive experience. All rooms, centred around the main courtyard, are beyond comfortable with their custom-design finishings, tailored interiors and sleek glass panels that complement the courtesy snacks, organic amenities, and wireless speakers. The vaulted ceilings pay homage to monastery chambers, while the ample bathrooms with walk-in showers are any traveller’s dream. Larger Aposento rooms offer a personal reading area, and Bóveda rooms include a stand alone tub for added pampering.

Arequipa has plenty to offer, from colourful monasteries to celebrated cuisine and charming cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings. If you’re looking to explore the sights, CIRQA offers a variety of half or full-day excursions led by knowledgeable guides, while those looking for outdoors adventures may opt for rafting, hiking or biking in the nearby Chilina valley. Tours to the sillar quarries are pretty special, as are excursions to the altiplano, complete with amazing views of volcanoes and salt flats and the occasional close encounter with the cutest vicuñas.