An All-Inclusive Paradise: Staying at the Grand Velas Riviera Maya in Cancun
by Krish Patel
Within the Riviera Maya area of Cancun is an all-inclusive property that provides a taste of luxury to its guests. Let me introduce you to the Grand Velas Riviera Maya! It’s a stunning resort that sits along the fronts of a beach and offers plenty in terms of amenities and dining, as well as spacious suites. After spending a couple nights, this may very well be one of the most beautiful beach resorts I’ve stayed at.
Location and Convenience
From Cancun International Airport, CUN, the resort is located about 35 minutes away by car. However, many of Cancun’s attractions are located over an hour from the resort. The property is found four miles from downtown Playa del Carmen, which makes this a convenient location.
Layout, Facilities, and Ambiance
The Grand Velas Resort offers plenty of amenities within its massive layout (sometimes confusing). You’ll need a map to locate all of the facilities. The property sits behind the walls of a stunning entrance, which makes a great first impression on the resort. It looks beautiful and mimics the vibes of a tropical beach.
Within the property are three sections, one of which is exclusively for adults. The Zen Grand and Ambassador sections of the resort welcome children, while the Grand Class is adults only. For the purpose of this article, we’ll primarily focus on the Ambassador section of the resort, where all of the main amenities are found.
Most of the resort is situated in an outdoors environment, with tropical plants throughout. I loved the hut-style entrance area, which felt welcoming with staff who offered iced tea or champagne. There’s a comfortable seating space and a front desk with some of the most hospitable staff I’ve encountered during my travels.
On the resort’s main level are some shops, as well as the kids and teens club. The teens club is open from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Only kids aged between 12 and 19 are welcomed between 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM. There are plenty of facilities at both spaces, such as video game consoles, board games, and toys for younger kids.
Located past the entrance area is the hotel’s main pool, which is split into two sections. The infinity pool offers great views of the stunning white-sand beach that’s exclusive to this resort. There’s plenty of seating near the pool area, and it shouldn’t be difficult to find a chair for lounging. The other two sections of the resort have their own pools as well.
There’s a private path that leads down to the beach, which has plenty of chairs for lounging, as well as a space reserved for beach volleyball. I was impressed with the temperature of the water, which was quite warm. If you love white-sand beaches with clear water, then this beach at the resort is one you’ll enjoy.
A variety of activities are available for booking at the beach, such as jet skiing and water tubing at additional fees.
Located at the end of the Ambassador section of the resort is the fitness center, which includes a variety of equipment, including cardio machines and weights.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya offers a spa treatment, known as the SE Spa. A variety of treatments are available at the spa, which is located in the Zen Grand section. The facility has received a five star rating from the Forbes Travel Guide, making this Riviera Maya resort one of six in Mexico to receive this coveted rating.
Ambassador Suite
I stayed in one of the Ambassador Suites at the Grand Velas Riviera Maya. The suite is incredibly striking and possesses plenty of spaciousness. My suite came with two rooms, both of which are very similar and come with the exact same layout.
Upon entering, you’ll notice a spacious closet to the right, which comes with plenty of space for keeping clothes and storing luggage.
To your left is the bathroom, which includes two sinks. The temperature of the water is adjustable, and there’s a hook beneath the sink for keeping a towel.
Next to the sink on the right-hand side is the tub, which features a built-in jacuzzi system and water that can be adjusted to a preferred temperature. Several bath and soap products were provided, but there was no bath salt. The soap and lotion are both supplied from Molten Brown, which is an English company. Each soap provided has the scent of mandarin and clary sage.
On the opposite side of the bathroom is a shower and toilet room, both of which are spacious. I was satisfied with the water pressure and temperature adjustment in the shower.
The bathroom is also equipped with a vanity mirror, near which is an outlet for a blow dryer.
Located next to the bathroom is a well-stocked mini bar, which includes a refrigerator with soft drinks and a variety of snacks, as well as a coffee machine and tea.
The desk comes with plenty of table space, and includes one chair.
My suite came with a king-sized bed, with a clean, white blanket and several plush pillows. On either side of the bed is a nightstand, beneath which are drawers for storing small items. Located above the nightstand is a reading light and several charging outlets.
For eating, there’s a small dining table tucked away near one of the suite’s corners.
Located across from the dining table is a luxurious seating space, with a plush couch and chair, as well as a table.
The TV is a large size, but you’ll probably ignore it thanks to dramatic views of the beach from the balcony.
Speaking of the balcony, the one provided in your suite is very spacious and includes furniture for lounging. Overall, I really enjoyed the size of the suite and its amenities.
Dining
As expected from a five star all-inclusive resort, the dining scene at Grand Velas Riviera Maya is impressive, with several cuisines offered. There are eight restaurants, ranging from a Michelin star tasting menu to a buffet spread. The eight restaurants are spread across the three sections of the resort.
If you’re someone who’s after a lengthy breakfast buffet selection, then Azul might be the right choice for you. The buffet-style restaurant offers plenty of fresh foods, and has a selection of pastries, breads, fruits, dairy products, and hot options. The lunch and dinner selection at Azul is also lengthy, with plenty of hot and cold options, as well as desserts to choose from. Otherwise, eating breakfast at the hotel’s bistro might be a great option if you prefer table service.
For dinner, I highly suggest making a reservation at Cocina de Autor, the hotel’s very own Michelin star restaurant offering a chef-curated tasting menu. I enjoyed a nine-course meal paired with a mocktail tasting, however, alcoholic beverages are also available.
Besides enjoying one of the eight restaurants on property, room service is also available. For my first morning at the resort, I ordered a huevos rancheros, which was pretty mediocre. I would have preferred for the overall dish to be less soggy, but that’s what happens when you order room service.
Located near the resort’s Ambassador pool is one of the coolest bars I’ve seen, with stone stools built into the pool. The bar gives off a tropical vibe, with wooden finishes and a roof made of hay. I ordered a virgin mojito, which wasn’t overly sour, but very tasty.
The perfect spot to grab an afternoon snack is the Amat cafe, offering decadent pastries and smooth coffee with a rich flavor. I love the cozy ambiance of this place, with the plush chairs and piano in the background. Best of all, it’s located near the pool, which means you can easily grab a coffee on your way out for a swim.
Some other good restaurants for dinner include Sen Lin, Frida, and Lucca. Sen Lin offers a variety of Asian dishes, while Lucca offers fresh pasta and Frida is the hotel’s Mexican restaurant. Everything offered at the three restaurants is of a fine quality.
Service
Upon arrival at the resort, I appreciated the warm welcome with a hot towel and welcome drink. The staff were friendly throughout my stay and acted professionally. During each of my meals at the resort, the service wasn’t rushed, nor was it too slow. Staff members often asked me if I’d like anything that would make my stay more enjoyable. Amazing Service!
Booking and Pricing
For a one-night stay at the Grand Velas Riviera Maya, prices cost somewhere around $845 and vary from night to night. The price is meant to cover all of your food and drinks at the resort.
Grand Velas isn’t associated with a traditional hotel points program such as Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy, World of Hyatt, or IHG One Rewards. However, it’s still possible to enjoy perks through the way you’ve booked your stay. Consider booking through Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts using a credit card (such as the Amex Platinum) to earn Membership Rewards points.
Overall Thoughts
I really enjoyed my stay at the Grand Velas Riviera Maya, with luxurious rooms, plenty of amenities, and a great dining scene. Plus, the professional service made for a cherry atop a great stay. If you love all-inclusive resorts and are looking for a getaway in Mexico, then consider staying at this resort, as it’s one I highly recommend.