Luxury marvels at nature

The Peruvian coastline, a stretch of land meeting the Pacific Ocean, is a diverse, enchanting region: from arid deserts to lush valleys, it offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and ecological richness. ALAMAR, ESCVDO’s High Summer 24, takes its inspiration in this very particular place.  

Its coastal desert, part of the larger Sechura Desert, is one of the driest places on Earth, defined by sand dunes, especially around Ica and Paracas, that create an otherworldly atmosphere contrasting sharply with the vibrant blue of the Pacific Ocean. 

This is a place where water strangely enough seems to define the dessert. First, the ocean: an incredible marine environment where nutrient-rich waters support an abundance of marine life from fish schools to great mammals as dolphins and whales, with the occasional sea lions, and a myriad of seabirds. 

Second, the desertic geography is transformed by coastline’s valleys, where rivers like the Santa, Rimac, and Chira flow down from the Andes, creating green oases amidst the arid desert. These fertile areas support agriculture, which was key to dotting the coast with historical and cultural treasures. Ancient civilizations, like the Moche and Nazca, left their mark here, as well as the Inca and the Chimú, great pre-columbian communities, all adoring the ocean and the earth as their deities. Many of this cultures were masters in textile arts, weaving cotton, yucca, maguey and other plants indigenous to the region, and dying them with insects like the cochinilla (dactylopius coccus), plants or powder made out of minerals. 

Thanks to these two variables, the Coast is full of unexpected colors and beauty, from where ALAMAR, ESCVDO’s High Summer 24, builds a palette of earth and ocean bound tones, as well as a collection of textures that copy the scenery. 

The mild weather of the coast have also safekept archeological treasures, such as the enigmatic Nazca Lines. The massive geoglyphs etched into the desert floor continue to intrigue archaeologists and tourists alike, with figures of incredible geometry and motifs that go from the natural world to the supernatural and religious one. 

Finally, coastal cities such as Lima offer a blend of colonial architecture, delicious cuisine and a strange but wonderful climate, all result of the particular geography. The "garúa," a dense coastal fog that blankets areas during the winter months create a mist over the desert surroundings, supporting unique ecosystems and giving the city a mysterious, ethereal charm. 

The Peruvian coastline is a remarkable blend of stark desert, lush valleys, and rich marine life, interwoven with a deep cultural history. This region is not only a testament to Peru’s natural and historical richness, but also a source of endless fascination.