From the moment you arrive at Grand Velas Riviera Maya, it’s clear you’ve entered somewhere truly special. The entrance, painted in pristine white, is striking against the deep blue Riviera Maya sky, and the dramatic water feature is so inviting that, after a long-haul flight, you may be tempted to jump right in. This resort isn’t just a place to stay – it’s an experience, a luxurious escape where every detail is thoughtfully designed and the service is second to none.
Spanning 206 acres, Grand Velas Riviera Maya is a world in itself, carefully curated to provide guests with the ultimate luxury, relaxation, and all-inclusive indulgence. It operates as three resorts within one: Zen Grand, a tranquil sanctuary set amid lush greenery and home to the serene spa; Ambassador, which is family-friendly with an air of understated luxury; and Grand Class, an adults-only oceanfront paradise, complete with an elegant Sky Bar and the Michelin-starred Cocina de Autor. Each section has its own unique charm, but all embody the signature luxury and authentic Mexican warmth that make Grand Velas a standout in the region. Unlike many American-owned Mexican resorts, Grand Velas remains deeply rooted in its heritage thanks to its Mexican ownership, ensuring an experience that feels both high-end and true to its culture.
One of the major advantages of staying here is the ability to pre-book dining reservations before arrival, ensuring you can secure a table at the most sought-after restaurants. However, should you wish to make last-minute changes, the concierge team is incredibly accommodating, offering seamless WhatsApp assistance for dinner reservations, activity bookings, bike hire, and even unexpected requests – need a hair straightener delivered to your room? No problem. It’s this level of service that elevates Grand Velas beyond a standard luxury resort – every single detail is taken care of, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in relaxation.
From the moment you step out of your transfer, the indulgence begins. A crisp glass of champagne awaits, followed by an effortless check-in experience. Bags are swiftly whisked away, and you are escorted to lunch, all without the inconvenience of wristbands…because who wants a tan line from a resort pass? The Grand Class section offers an enchanting setting, where jungle pathways echo with the sounds of frogs at night, enhancing the feeling of being surrounded by nature.
Rooms are nothing short of exceptional, with luxurious touches that make all the difference. The oceanfront, ocean-view, and tropical Zen settings each offer stunning views, but it’s the spaciousness and elegant design that truly impress. Each suite is equipped with a flatscreen TV, a welcome bottle of Grand Velas Mezcal to toast your holiday, a Nespresso machine, Molton Brown amenities, toothbrush kits, a nightly turndown service with salted caramel treats, and even a thoughtful selection of forgotten essentials. The fully stocked minibar…complimentary, of course! Features sweet treats, champagne, beer, and soft drinks, restocked every morning. Each suite is a private retreat, blending comfort with sophistication, where every element has been considered for a seamless experience.
The poolside service at Grand Velas is unparalleled, offering three distinct pool options, each with attentive waitstaff ensuring you never need to lift a finger. From an ice-cold bottle of water upon arrival to plush sunbeds that redefine comfort, every aspect is designed for total relaxation. The watermelon margarita was a true standout, crafted with freshly cut watermelon and your choice of premium tequila. Just steps away, the beach offers the same level of impeccable service, making it effortless to unwind whether you choose to lounge by the pool or on the soft white sands.
Dining at Grand Velas is an event in itself, with a variety of world-class restaurants to choose from. Asian fusion dining at Sen Lin, modern Mexican cuisine at Frida, and an exceptional steak experience – cooked to perfection, even for those who have dined at top-rated steakhouses worldwide. Cocina de Autor, now boasting a Michelin star, pushes the boundaries of flavour and presentation, holding the AAA Five Diamond Award, making it the first restaurant of an all-inclusive resort to ever receive this distinction.
For a more casual yet equally satisfying option, Restaurante Azul is a favourite, offering breathtaking ocean views and an exceptional buffet selection. Fresh tacos, made-to-order sushi, a vibrant salad bar, eggs prepared to your preference, fruit smoothies, and classic breakfast staples create an indulgent yet varied dining experience.
A 24/7 shuttle service ensures seamless transport across the vast resort, with wait times rarely exceeding one minute. If you’re craving a sweet treat between meals, Amat Café is the perfect stop, serving fresh cookies, pastries, cold brew coffee, and ice cream. Evenings are just as vibrant, with entertainment options including a karaoke bar and the stylish Koi Bar.
Shopping is made easy with a dedicated boutique in each section of the resort, offering everything from designer swimwear and SPF to luxury souvenirs. Those eager to explore can take part in bike tours, which provide insights into the resort’s history, Mayan culture, and stunning natural surroundings. Water sports are abundant, while families can take advantage of the well-equipped kids’ and teens’ clubs, with babysitting services available at an additional cost.
Wellness is a priority at Grand Velas, with two fully equipped gyms featuring bottled water, sweat towels on every machine, and post-workout healthy snacks. However, the true highlight is Se Spa; an oasis of tranquillity offering an immersive wellness experience and renowned for its authentic Mexican treatments.
The seven-step water journey, is an hour-long guided ritual, the ultimate in true relaxation and the perfect way to recover after a flight. Spanning almost 90,000 square feet, the spa is divided into men’s and women’s areas, each featuring custom-designed facilities, including a Clay Room, a circular glass-tiled steam room with a fibre-optic starlit ceiling, an Ice Room with floor-to-ceiling windows, and a series of hot-and-cold experience showers. Changing rooms are stocked with Dyson electrical styling tools and aromatherapy showers, ensuring every element of the experience is luxurious. While the Water Journey is gender-segregated, meaning couples can’t experience it together, the tranquillity and post-glow effect are a real selfie moment.
One of the most unique treatments is the Paak’am massage, which begins with a grounding ritual of placing feet in warm, sand-like pebbles to create a soothing sensation. The treatment incorporates a gentle full body scrub enriched with Mexican cactus blossoms, followed by heated cactus pads infused with rosemary oil, delivering a harmonious blend of relaxation and nature-inspired rejuvenation.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya is the kind of getaway that stays with you, the sort of resort where guests return year after year. With its breathtaking setting, impeccable service, and world-class amenities, it offers a level of luxury that feels both effortless and unforgettable. Whether indulging in Michelin-starred dining, unwinding at the spa, or simply taking in the beauty of the Riviera Maya, every detail is designed to make you want to return. It’s no surprise this extraordinary resort has been the backdrop for many films – a place where luxury, nature, and authentic Mexican hospitality come together seamlessly.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya, Carretera Cancun Tulum Km 62 Playa Del Carmen, 77710 Riviera Maya, Q.R., Mexico
