The Sacred Valley is one of the most compelling settings in South America, and Tambo del Inka makes it very easy to settle in. Set along the Vilcanota River in Urubamba, with the Andes rising on all sides, the design draws on local stone and eucalyptus wood, with large multicoloured braids recalling the Incan quipu system decorating the high walls. An indoor/outdoor pool overlooks the river, and the private train station means the journey to Machu Picchu begins at the front door. Hawa restaurant serves New Andean cuisine from an organic garden on site, and baby alpacas visit the lobby each evening. Cusco is ninety minutes away.