Barranco: A Bohemian Haven for Lima’s Leading Artists
A former beach resort and home to Peru’s most affluent residents in the early 19th century, Lima’s Barranco district has more recently transformed into a creative hub favored by the country’s leading artists.
The streets of Barranco are awash with art and brightly colored buildings – no wonder this vibrant barrio, where talent flows freely, is known as Lima’s most romantic area. Barranco gets its particularly stunning looks from its location, on the cliffs – south of central Lima and the high-end Miraflores neighborhood. With panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the bohemian hotspot is home to trendy cafés, eateries and lively bars, many of them overlooking the beach. And while Barranco is fairly quiet during the day, the atmosphere becomes much livelier in the evening. After all, it is known as the Soho of Lima.
Where to stay
AC Hotel Lima Miraflores
Luxury
Located in Miraflores – Lima’s entertainment district, just north of Barranco – AC Hotel Lima Miraflores is a sophisticated hotel with an elegant interior. The hotel, part of the Marriott group, is ideally situated by the Malecón – a 2-mile-(3km-)long promenade beside the Pacific Ocean. Swanky Miraflores is a favorite amongst tourists, boasting a large number of restaurants, bars and shops, including Larcomar, an outside mall set on the ocean cliff. Luxury meets comfort at this contemporary hotel, which is designed with an elegant neutral color palette. Step inside and you’re introduced to a suave space with 139 rooms spread over 17 floors and an impressive rooftop bar – the only one of its kind in Lima – with stunning views of the Peruvian capital. Enjoy dinner with a view here, as well as the hotel’s signature drink, ACGT (A Custom Gin Tonic). If you prefer to stay inside, head down to Saladero, the onsite restaurant that serves up a fusion of European and Peruvian dishes.
Where to go
Plaza de Armas Barranco
Building
Begin your visit at the main square, the heart of Barranco. Here you’ll find charming colonial buildings, a beautiful park and multiple statues and fountains, but the plaza also provides entertainment. As a meeting point for local residents, many artists gather here to share their passion with bystanders: musicians come out to play their latest tunes, painters display their work, designers sell their craft and actors put on a show.
Puente de Los Suspiros
Bridge
A short walk away, you have the iconic Puente de Los Suspiros, also known as Barranco’s Bridge of Sighs. Built in 1876, the historic wooden bridge has become one of Peru’s most famed landmarks, and offers beautiful views of Lima – it’s particularly romantic in the evening when the quaint area is illuminated. Legend has it that if you hold your breath and make a wish while crossing the bridge, your wish will come true.
MATE Mario Testino Museum
Art Gallery, Museum
Dédalo Arte y Artesanía
Store, Art Gallery
Mercado de Surquillo
Market, Restaurant, Seafood
Peru’s gastronomy scene has evolved through the years, turning Lima into a must-visit foodie destination. And what better way to discover the country’s traditional foods than to visit one of Lima’s bestmarkets? Just a short walk from Barranco, Miraflores’ Mercado de Surquillo is your introduction to Peruvian cuisine. Upon arrival, you’ll probably spot the fruit vendors first, with their wide range of brightly colored and unique tropical fruits like lucuma, cherimoya and pepino. Taste of some of these local treasures before moving over to the meat and fish section, to see what’s arrived fresh that morning. Be sure to stop and indulge in traditional dishes such as ceviche and tiradito. A walk around the market stalls will allow you to see and smell your way through the country’s most loved foods.
Linda Konde was hosted by the AC Hotels on a press trip to Lima, Peru.
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