Dotted with impressive boutique-style Haciendas and more than 100 archaeological sites, including Uxmal, Tulum and one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’, Chichén Itzá, here the Yucatán Peninsula’s Mayan culture abounds.
Boasting luxurious resorts and charming hideaways, the area known as the Riviera Maya is home to soft white sands, crystal clear waters and the second largest reef in the world. Add to this colourful Spanish towns, sleepy coastal fishing villages and exclusive Mayakoba with its mangroves and beaches and it is easy to see why so many travellers flock to the region’s shores.
Gary has just returned from a pre-Christmas trip to the Riviera Maya where he stayed at at three stunning and very different luxury properties – Fairmont Mayakoba, Grand Velas Riviera Maya and Etéreo. Each is featured below as well as some unmissable special offers for 2025 (not including Etéreo) and some key recommendations by Gary.
Fairmont Mayakoba
The expansive Fairmont Mayakoba blends authentic Mexican style with warm hospitality, excellent facilities and special privileges exchanged between all of the Mayakoba resorts.
Elegantly appointed guestrooms are housed in either the main residence or within 90 beautiful casitas overlooking the waterways and mangroves of the resort. Beach Front and Beach Area Suites feature private plunge pools, spectacular views and attentive butlers who will cater to all aspects of your day, from private check-in to confirming leisure activities and dining reservations. Elevate your ‘Appetite for Luxury’ and upgrade to the all-inclusive meal and beverage plan available in a selection of the resort’s delicious dining venues, where you will sample a variety of cuisine for exceptional value.
Take in the scenery from the picturesque pools and beach, from the El Camaleón championship golf course surrounding the resort or while sailing in a lancha boat on an eco-tour through the network of canals. Whether you choose to play tennis, learn to dive, cycle your way round the resort or go sightseeing, this family-friendly hotel with a dynamic kids club offers something for everyone.
Gary’s Tip:
Particularly recommended for families seeking a larger resort style 5 star property offering a multitude of facilities.
Beaver Travel Special Offer
UP TO 40% DISCOUNT ON ROOM RATES
Save £590 per person – 7 nights from £1,930 per person
Price is based on two adults sharing a Fairmont Room on a room only basis and includes return transfers plus economy flights with British Airways
Book by 31 January 2025 for stays until 03 January 2026
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
Surrounded by white sand beaches and Mayan jungle, Grand Velas is a luxurious all-inclusive resort spread along the picturesque coastline. Families will feel at home in the Zen Jungle and Ambassador suites with private terraces and stunning views, while couples take in the romance of the adult-only Grand Class, all with plunge pools.
Dine and drink in stylish restaurants and bars, sampling Mexican cuisine in Frida or Cocina de Autor, French fare in Piaf and Asian fusion in Sen Lin. Surrender to the SE Spa, lounge on the beach or enjoy one of the wide array of activities. Younger guests can enjoy time at the Kids Club whilst the Teens Club is a must for young adults.
Gary’s Tip:
Staying here completely changed my pre-conception of an ‘All inclusive’ resort. It attracts high-end guests (not necessarily trying to over eat and drink in order to get maximum value of pre-paid cost!). There was NO attempt to charge extra for any premium products or skimping on what was included in the pre-paid price, the opposite in fact. For example at the excellent adults only pool I was regularly offered premium cocktails, nibbles, fruit, sun glass cleaning etc..
I would thoroughly recommend Grand Velas Riviera Maya!
Beaver Travel Special Offer
UP TO 25% DISCOUNT ON ROOM RATES
PLUS $50 spa credit per adult per night
Save £1,465 per person – 7 nights from £3,980 per person
Price is based on two adults sharing a Zen Grand Suite Nature View on an all-inclusive basis and includes return transfers plus economy flights with British Airways
Valid for stays until 04 January 2026
Etéreo, Playa del Carmen
Part of the Auberge Luxury Collection, Etereo is located across 9 acres of a protected mangrove forest within the prestigious Kanai development, a 40-minute drive from Cancun International Airport. All 70 accommodations, which range from 875-square-foot studios to 3,925-square-foot, three-bedroom penthouse suites, come with ocean views. Along with five restaurants, two swimming pools, and a stunning white sand beach, this boutique resort features the largest reef in the region, which lies just 80 metres offshore.
Gary’s Tip:
Recommended for clients looking for high quality 5 star, quieter boutique style hotel (70 rooms). Rich culture woven into every detail with authentic Mexican feel (interesting rituals/experiences offered), laid back atmosphere, super helpful & friendly staff offering great personal service, very chilled back ground pool music etc)
