From US$328 for two-person occupancy, inclusive of roundtrip airport transfer, wifi, and many treats. Kids under 12 stay free. Bed and breakfast and all-inclusive packages available too.
– Lovely staff who are always attuned to whatever you might need
– Though there’s occasional live music in the evenings, Grand Residences isn’t the right hotel for those looking to party
I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone look this blissed out. The man practically floats out of the spa at Grand Residences Riviera Cancun, making his way back towards the infinity pool and the white sand beach. He doesn’t seem to have a care in the world. I want that look. I need that look! Perusing the spa’s extensive menu, I simplify my choice: could I have what he had?
The spectacular treatment turns out to be the Lomi-Lomi massage. Based on ancient Hawaiian philosophy and healing techniques, this massage works the body and relaxes the mind. An hour later the kink in my neck has disappeared, the knots are gone from my back, and I have the exact same blissed-out look on my face. It lasts my entire stay at Grand Residences Riviera Cancun.
This five-star resort is on a quiet beach in the fishing village of Puerto Morelos, which is between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Puerto Morelos has a handful of hotels sprinkled along its seemingly endless white sand beach. The best is Grand Residences Riviera Cancun.
The hotel is aptly named. The all-suite accommodations are equipped and decorated like a real home, so you don’t feel like you’re in an anonymous hotel room. Although … I can’t think of too many homes I’ve been in that have the special services Grand Residences offers, like magical replenishments of treats and Bulgari amenities, and evening turndown service with gifts of tiny alebrijes folk art sculptures.
My grand one-bedroom suite has a full kitchen, laundry, dining table for eight, living room, large bedroom, and a balcony which has chaises longues, another dining table for eight, and a jetted tub. My bathroom has two walk-in closets, his- and hers- sink areas, a shower room, separate toilet room, and another jetted tub.
Grand Residences Riviera Cancun currently has 144 of these suites, from junior in size to immense ones with four bedrooms. Some have their own private pool. They’re laid out in a handful of low buildings clustered around central courtyards with sunken mangrove gardens, a lap pool, kids club, restaurants, and an immense tiered infinity pool overlooking the beach. Two buildings sit right on the beach.
While you can cook for yourself in-room, dining at Grand Residences is exceptional. Meals can be purchased à la carte or on an all-inclusive basis. One restaurant specializes in authentic Mexican and Mayan dishes, another has a menu which changes throughout the week. In the lobby, there’s an espresso bar and a patio for afternoon tea, complete with finger sandwiches and pastries. At the beach, have lunch with your feet in the sand or try a tequila tasting.
The town of Puerto Morelos is a short drive away, though it’s easy to drive to Cancun or Playa del Carmen too. I highly recommend Puerto Morelos’ Tulaka Diving for a reef-conscious way to explore the underwater world of the Mayan Riviera, whether by snorkel or scuba. The waters off Puerto Morelos have been protected by the Puerto Morelos Reef National Park since 1998, so the reef and sea life are in excellent condition. I saw colourful fish, an abundance of sea fans and even a sleeping 1.5m nurse shark (which are not dangerous at all to humans).
Grand Residences Riviera Cancun is ideal for couples, families (kids under 12 stay for free, and can enjoy the kids club), and for special events like weddings. As a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, you can be assured that your stay will be just about perfect.
