Housed in a stately Republican home built in the twenties, charming boutique Villa Barranco has been lovingly restored in the heart of Lima’s bohemian district of Barranco. Preserving many of its beautiful original architectural features, including its grand facade and interior details, this is a warm and inviting four-star 9-room hotel by small Peruvian chain Ananay.
Boutique with character
As a former home, it’s befitting that this characterful property is located in a quiet, residential corner of Barranco. Award-winning restaurants and trendy art galleries are all within walking distance, with the coastal promenade not even a block away. The terrace bar and lounge has Pacific ocean views from the side of the property – the perfect spot for a sundowner cocktail. Having been converted from a private residence, the hotel retains a strong sense of warmth and homeliness. The living room has parquet wooden floors and book shelving that makes it look like the owner just stepped out from this summer residence, with doors opening onto the inviting garden patio.
The Rooms
With just 9 tastefully furnished rooms, each is unique with its own distinct character. All are generously proportioned ensuites, with private garden terraces or rooftop patios. There are Deluxe Rooms and Master Suites. On the first floor, there are two deluxe rooms (one with a garden) and four junior suites (two with a garden); on the second floor there is a junior suite with a private terrace, a junior suite with a balcony, and a split-level master suite. The master suit boasts a loft with a spiral staircase leading up to nook with a single bed and door opening onto a private ocean-view roof terrace.
Decoration is eclectic – one of the property’s owners is an avid collector – so a range of vintage furniture and trinkets adorns walls and rooms, complemented by cozy furnishings. Flashes of contemporary art are juxtaposed against the traditional pieces, with bright splashes of color in several rooms courtesty of trendy geometrical tiles. The style is trendy, without looking like it’s trying too hard to be cool. The spaces feel bright and airy thanks to the original high ceilings. All rooms offer air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and Wi-Fi.
Dining
Buffet breakfast is served in the living room, which is delightfully homely. In the summer, patio doors invite you to sit outside in the green gardens – a real treat in a desert city. There’s no restaurant, which isn’t too problematic thanks to the myriad of top restaurants in Barranco and neighboring Miraflores. Instead, there’s a light menu for room service, with simple and straightfoward dishes like hamburgers and pastas should you wish to have room service.
The hotel has purchased the identical home next door, with plans to provide a handful of extra rooms in the future and a dedicated restaurant space.