Jim and Jackie go to Peru

Jackie in the doorway of Inti Punku (Sun Gate) with Mount Veronica in the background.

We are often inspired by the tales of travel, adventure and daily life we hear from our guests, whether they hail from around the world or closer to home. It's one of the great side effects of life in a B&B. The flip side, though, is that in 10 years of running this business and living in this beautiful region, we've never been able to tear ourselves away for a big trip of our own. Until now.

Last month, Jim and I closed up shop, hopped on a plane, and crossed a big destination off my bucket list with a two-week trip to Peru, including the iconic Machu Picchu. And it was amazing!

Since conversation around the breakfast table often turns to dream destinations, I thought I'd share some of our experience with you...

After arriving in the city of Cusco in the heart of the Inca empire, we started with a few days of sightseeing and day-hikes.

The fortress in Ollantaytambo was impressive.

We based our first few days out of the living Inca town of Ollantaytambo.

We explored pre-Inca ruins at Pikillacta in the south valley.

We included a modern-style adrenaline rush with an afternoon of zip lining.

A 400m climb up to the first zipline. This is the closest I'll get to mountain climbing.

One of seven ziplines, including a 700m single span.

After acclimatizing for a few days, we embarked on a three-day trek taking us 4,400 metres above the Sacred Valley.

The Perolnioc waterfalls below ruins.

Our trek took us up above the tree line into the puna.

Camping at night, hiking all day, feeling a sense of accomplishment.

Climb every mountain!

After our first trek, we spent an easy day in the city of Cusco before embarking on our second trek, the Salkantay route to Machu Picchu.

Jim doesn't just live on the edge, he naps on the edge!

Cold nights at high altitude make for frosty mornings.

On top of the world!

We were part of a small group for this trek. Here we're celebrating reaching our highest point at 4,630 metres!

Getting warmer as we descend. Passing waterfalls and bridges as we enter the high jungle.

At Llactapata ruins, we can see Machu Picchu off in the distance.

 After four days hiking approximately 70km, we arrived in the town of Aguas Calientes, our launching point for two days in Machu Picchu.

The classic view -- totally worth the effort.

Llamas!

The craftsmanship and sheer work involved boggles the mind.

Hiking an Inca trail up Machu Picchu Mountain.

Tired but happy!

Awe and inspiration everywhere.

Your intrepid innkeepers cross a biggie off the bucket list!