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Sometimes time feels like it flies by quickly and when one of our correspondents was going to be in Puno, Peru, we realized it had been seven years since we stepped into the Hotel Libertador Lago Titicaca. Although the long-promised renovations still aren’t in motion, it was time for us to post an update with some new photos.
Despite Puno being situated on the shores of the world’s highest navigable lake, one with a unique culture of people on its islands, it doesn’t get all that many tourists. This Libertador and Titilaka have been the only real games in town for upscale travelers for many years. There’s a lot of competition for your attention in Peru. If travelers haven’t set aside a few weeks to really see Peru in depth, they’re often breezing through the Sacred Valley and Cusco then taking off again.
The new train trip from Belmond (formerly Orient Express) with Peru Rail should help though. They have long had a luxury train line between Cusco and Puno, but now it extends further to Arequipa, making it a multi-day journey with overnight stays. This should encourage more people to pass through.
As with much of Peru though, it’s sad that people do only spend a night in passing. This is probably part of the reason why the Libertador has taken its time in upgrading its rooms. Few guests are spending multiple days here, taking advantage of all the great excursions the property offers through its co-owned tour company. Until the renovations happen, which will mean enlargement of some rooms as well, we strongly suggest trying to snag one of the nine suites. Otherwise, at least get one that maximizes the view:
“If you want to watch the sunrise over the lake from bed (and you do), book a “sunrise view” room with beds on the right-hand side of the room as you’re facing the windows. If that’s not enough lake view for you, walk the short distance to the mirador view point next to hotel for nearly 360 degree views of Lake Titicaca.”
The Libertador Lago Titicaca is aptly named because it’s on its own private island. The public areas take full advantage of the views, with the hotel stretched out along the shore and lots of glass on the lake-facing side. The lobby is full of light and in the cool months there’s a communal free-standing fireplace to gather around.
Drinks are served in this area too, taking advantage of Pisco and other local ingredients. The extensive breakfast buffet, included in the rates, gets high marks from guests. At night things get more formal and the menu features plenty of local specialties.
The hotel has its own oxygen room for guests who get overwhelmed by the altitude, there’s a gym on site, and the island’s dock departs for lake trips to floating villages.
Sоurсе: luxurylatinamerica.com
