Second Home Peru: A Museum, a View, an Unforgettable Stay

Along with Machu Picchu, Peru’s capital, Lima, is enjoying a tourism boom these days, thanks to its world-class museums and growing reputation as a center of South American gastronomy. Fortunately, the hotel scene in the city is keeping pace, offering a large variety of excellent accommodations in every price range. One establishment in particular — Second Home Peru Guesthouse & Gallery — deserves to be at the top of the list in the category of B&B’s.

​Actually, the estate is in a league of its own on several counts. The property is the home and studio of one Peru’s most legendary contemporary artists, Victor Delfin. His daughter, Lilian, has transformed the mansion and adjacent buildings into a guesthouse that truly lives up the adjective “unique.” The grounds are a large sculpture park, perched on a cliff overlooking the vast Pacific Ocean. Yet the premises are conveniently situated just steps away from the heart of Barranco, Lima’s thriving arts district, and the neighborhood’s picturesque and evocative Bridge of Sighs.

Dramatic ocean views can be enjoyed from all but one of the guest rooms, either through floor-to-ceiling windows or from a semi-private terrace. Elegance is evident inside as well, especially in the bathrooms appointed with Louis XV tubs, while the comfortable queen-sized beds boast fine cotton linens and comforters. Complimentary high-speed wi-fi Internet access extends even to the furthest of the guest quarters. While rooms are equipped with cable flat screen TV’s, one surprising drawback is the lack of an in-room telephone, even for internal communication to the front desk.

Second Home Peru

Among the six rooms is one family suite, but the rooms are basically designed for single or couple adult occupancy. Space permitting, an extra bed for a third person or child is available at an extra charge.

A complimentary continental breakfast is served, and guests can enjoy a very impressive swimming pool. But the highlight still remains getting up close and personal with Delfin’s works, especially his amazing sculptures, in the style of his famous “The Kiss”, one of Lima’s most beloved landmarks, in the Love Park along the Miraflores beach. Many of his paintings and creations in different media may also be viewed in his studio; and he may often be observed at work. (He has even been known to converse with visitors, although predominantly in Spanish). Tourists who are not guests of the B&B may visit the grounds and studio of Casa Taller Delfin, by appointment.

There may be better spots if you’re looking for luxury travel in Peru, but this will indeed make you feel like you’ve found your second home.

Second Home Peru website.

Number of rooms: 6

Published rates: $115-$130 (USD)

Text and photos by Buzzy Gordon, who was a guest of Second Home Peru for purposes of review.