Via Australis

Located within the historical heart of Arequipa, Palacio Guaqui was once the manor house of the Count of Guaqui from the 19th to the 20th century. This beautifully restored mansion forms part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, recognised for its cultural and architectural significance.

Every detail of Palacio Guaqui’s restoration reflects a deep respect for its original structure and surrounding environment. Peruvian artisans, using innovative and sustainable techniques, have preserved the mansion’s authentic charm while crafting an elegant retreat that feels timeless yet modern. Each suite in this boutique hotel is a sanctuary of refined design, offering spacious, warm and inviting interiors.  The serene ambiance of the three courtyards invites you to unwind and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Arequipa.

The hotel’s restaurant pays homage to the region’s culinary traditions, serving exquisite dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients. The cosy atmosphere provides the perfect setting to savour authentic flavours of Peru, while a varied buffet breakfast ensures a delicious start to the day. For a more private dining experience, room service delivers the same level of culinary excellence to your suite. For those on the move, the hotel offers thoughtfully prepared lunch boxes, allowing you to carry a taste of Arequipa wherever your adventures takes you. Meanwhile the 24-hour bar provides an array of beverages and light snacks at any time of the day or night.

Located within the tranquil expanse of Belize’s Mountain Pine Ridge, Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge was originally a logging home. Spanning 7,200 acres of lush forest and rolling hills, this reserve has become a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

The Garden Cottages offer a perfect escape, crafted with locally sourced mahogany furniture, luxury linens and spa-inspired amenities, including handmade soaps. Each suite features a cozy wood-burning fireplace, inviting you to unwind as the crackling fire casts a warm glow in the evenings. With stunning views and expansive sitting areas, these rooms serve as a peaceful sanctuary to retreat to after a day of exploration. You can also choose to stay at the Fire Tower. Inspired by traditional fire lookout towers, this four-story retreat rises above the forest canopy, granting uninterrupted 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. Meanwhile the villas are perfect for couples or families, offering extended living spaces as well as a private heated plunge pool.

The property offers an array of activities tailored to all types of adventurers. With knowledgeable guides, embark on bird-watching excursions, guided nature walks or even yoga sessions that connect you to the tranquil surroundings. Hike through winding trails, observing native wildlife in their natural habitat or enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear natural pools beneath cascading waterfalls. The surrounding forest reserve is teeming with life and every trail promises a new discovery.

For those with a passion for culinary discovery, the dining experience at Hidden Valley is not to be missed. Hidden Valley takes pride in a ‘Nature Based Conscious Cuisine/No Barcode’ philosophy, an approach grounded in sustainability and the rich agricultural heritage of Belize.

Local ingredients, sourced from nearby farmers and artisans, form every dish, ensuring that each bite supports both the environment and local communities. The menus celebrate the flavours of the region, with dishes inspired by traditional Mayan cooking and modern Belizean influences. Each meal is an opportunity to experience Belize’s food culture, and activities such as cooking classes, chocolate-making workshops and cocktail sessions invite you to dive deeper into the culinary landscape.