A Magical Mountainside Oasis Just An Hour From Lima!
Wow. This is the word that comes to mind when you enter the Sauce Alto Resort found in the mountain town of Cieneguilla, Peru. Just an hour from Lima central, the nearly constant sunshine found in this breezy town will whisk away any memory of the often overcast and smog filled city. As you walk from the entrance gates to your room, you’ll notice that that no detail has been forgotten. This perfectly landscaped property is abounding with rustic charm. From the ancient rock designs along the mountainside to the beautifully designed pond where permanent horses stand guard, this magical oasis is sure to melt your stress away. Inside the rooms, you’ll be met with the perfect combination of elegant and traditional design. The kitchen and dining area are perfect for meals in, but our favorite feature…the ultra-comfortable, oversized beds! The rooms available vary from studios, junior suites, presidential suites, and royal suites and they all come complete with a view! Book any of the royal suites and you’ll even have a whirlpool jacuzzi to soak all your stress away!
While you may not correlate Peru with timeshares, this resort is a direct affiliate of Interval International with over 3,000 properties in 80 countries worldwide! This makes travel for those who want to see all the world as easy as 1,2,3! Plus, if you’re a local Peruvian, there’s a special package for you with great promotional membership rates to Sauce Alto. At first, we weren’t sure how the timeshare aspect would mesh with this family resort, but it has definitely maintained its authenticity. Sauce Alto has been built across 7 hectares, its expansive plot of land is filled with all the nicest things. For any outdoor, nature loving, or athletic person this resort has it all. If you are a person who is looking to escape from the noise and smog of Lima, but keep the modern amenities, this place definitely has you covered!
This natural Inca themed oasis is constructed along the mountain side, next to the often rushing Lurin river. It was built for families, and couples who want to relax, and get away from the day-to day stressors of life. During the week, all that is often heard are the sounds of the birds frolicking in the trees. On weekends, this resort is completely transformed, bringing families together to laugh and play. With multiple playgrounds, two swimming pools, three separate soccer fields, a tennis court, and two paddle ball courts, it is hard to imagine any children getting bored. If you’re looking for some adult time, don’t worry, there’s plenty for you too! The pool’s swim up bar is available to serve you a cold one…or you can sit out in the lawn for lunch, while ordering fresh ‘comida criolla’ from the BBQ hut! Had too much sun? Stop by the glass enclosed El Meson restaurant and bar (where this resort got its start) and dine on grilled rabbit or fresh trout After the kids have gone to bed, you can even try your luck at a game of pool!
We love that this resort is run by multiple generations of family while working hand in hand with nature. Their food is farm fresh with their own farm and garden to grow fruit and veggies right at the back of the property. This back area also includes an entire camp ground if you wanted to spend a few nights out under the stars. Don’t worry, while not “glamping” they do have a small (for this place) Brazilian grill and bar area for you to prepare your meals. While they don’t have horses on property, they work with a local corral that brings over their horses for rides on Saturdays and Sundays. At only 40 soles per ride this is a steal. I have paid an average of 200 dollars American for the same kind of deal in the States.
While other reviews have docked the resort points for not having enough to do in the surrounding areas, we feel like they are missing the point. This is not a place that is built for constantly doing, but for enjoying quality time with your partner or family! Not to mention we found plenty to do! The archaeological ruins of Huaycán are a mere 5 minute drive from the resort, and are not only full of Ishma and Incan history, but are truly phenomenal to see. While Machu Picchu is usually the first thing people think of in Peru, there were actually a myriad of tribes and civilizations populating the area well before. This active archaeology site is open for tours run by actual archaeologists and was one of our favorite excursions to date. We also loved taking a road trip to the colorful town of Antioquia. Here you will find a wonderful little town that’s entire facade has been painted in bright colors to reflect images native to the area. One walk around the town and you might believe you stepped into a land straight from a fairytale!
If you’re a foodie, this resort and town is the place to be! A short walk from the property will lead you to Don Maurizio’s! While you may not think Italian when you are in Peru, this place gets pizza done right. From a girl that just traveled to Italy earlier this summer, I can tell you that the place is authentic as it gets! A little hard to find, but you won’t be disappointed! For desert, coffee, and tea, the super chic and floral El Jardin is a must visit! The main and beautiful town square of Cieneguilla also has a local farm fair each weekend, selling fresh local produce such as trout and honey, as well as crafts. Between the in-room kitchens, on-site and local restaurants, and room service, we promise that you won’t go hungry. If this resort doesn’t have your family covered, we’re not sure what will!
Interval International offers a wide variety of timeshare packages catering to any budget, so take our advice and book your next trip to Sauce Alto Resort! You can find more information at www.saucealto.com.pe and www.intervalworld.com.
