Chapter 1 Travel diary: The Peruvian Andes

A story that begins a long way from here, in the heart of the majestic Peruvian Andes.

This is the home of the alpacas whose soft, warm wool gives rise to our creations. But this country is much more than just know-how... it's a culture, landscapes and an incredible wealth of human resources.

The mountains of the Peruvian Andes stretch from the north to the south of the country, offering breathtaking panoramas: snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, crystal-clear lakes and villages perched at dizzying heights. The country's highest peak, Huascarán, rises to over 6,768 metres, a height that attracts mountaineers from all over the world. However, the Andes are much more than just a geographical magnitude; they are a veritable melting pot of biodiversity and ancestral cultures.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this mountain range is the presence of the Inca Empire. The Incas, who ruled much of western South America, exploited the difficult terrain of the Andes to build cities and temples. The famous Machu Picchu, now a wonder of the world, is testimony to the ingenuity of this civilisation and its harmony with the environment.

Machu Picchu: A must-see for travellers, this archaeological site impresses not only with its visual appeal, but also with its history and mysteries. Perched at an altitude of over 2,400 metres, Machu Picchu remains a symbol of the grandeur of the Inca Empire and a place of meditation for many visitors.

Lake Titicaca: This lake, the highest navigable in the world, is a mythological place for Peruvians and Bolivians. Surrounded by small islands and traditional villages, it is the cradle of many Inca legends.

The Colca Canyon: Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, this natural site is a perfect place for observing condors, the majestic birds that fly over the valley. The region is also known for its natural thermal baths, ideal for a moment of relaxation after a day's exploration.

The Sacred Valley: Located near Cusco, this valley is full of Inca ruins, archaeological sites and spectacular scenery.It is also an important centre for traditional agriculture, with colourful markets where you can discover local handicrafts.

The emblematic animal of the Andean high plateaux, the alpaca is much more than just a supplier of wool: it has been the silent guardian of these mountains for thousands of years. Adapted to the extreme conditions of altitude, they live in harmony with the spectacular landscapes of the Andes, contributing to the balance of the ecosystems and the way of life of the local communities.

Its wool, nicknamed ‘the wool of the gods’ by the ancient Incas, perfectly symbolises the nobility, warmth and authenticity of this region. Wearing alpaca means embracing a living part of the Andes, a link between nature, culture and timeless elegance.

Wearing a BellePaga creation means embracing a living part of the Andes, a link between nature, culture and timeless elegance. Discover the ancestral know-how of the Andes through our BellePaga collection on www.bellepaga.com