Las Qolqas EcoResort Ollantaytambo

In Lima for a shoot, I had a hard time imagining returning from Peru without seeing the Andes. I extended my trip by a few days, which I spent at Las Qolqas, an eco-resort in the Sacred Valley. Built on several acres of land outside of Ollantaytambo, the resort is made up of luxury tents, mature trees, and flowering gardens – all tucked between two sheer cliff faces. The property has a focus on sustainability: and is built with such a light footprint that it could be packed up and returned to farmland in just two weeks. From the hotel, I took a day trip to Machu Picchu, returning in time to have a massage, bathe in the Japanese soaking tub, and eat dinner at the property’s restaurant, which serves a daily menu cooked with whatever is fresh and local; during my visit that included a river trout breaded with quinoa, and salads made from greens grown on the property and edible flowers. While I was eating, staff members came into my room to light the fire in the wood stove, which I very much appreciated, as the nights were wonderfully chilly. It was an ideal jumping-off place for exploring the Sacred Valley, but also would be a lovely stay for anyone who wants to simply relax surrounded by spectacular beauty. – Skye Parrott