Though it’s not necessarily billed as a wellness resort, the new Grand Velas Boutique Hotel Los Cabos boasts all the hallmarks of a true destination spa retreat, making it an exceptional escape for travelers with a penchant for wellness. From nourishing dining options to serene design to a lovely locally inspired spa, there’s something for everyone looking to enjoy the Baja bliss of Cabo while keeping health and wellness in mind. The property, a boutique all-inclusive resort for adults, is a new ultra-luxury concept from Mexico’s Velas Resorts, and I’m happy to report that this exciting $50 million offering is a healthy home run for the brand.
WHAT WE LOVE
- Magical water circuit at Se Spa
- Healthy nibbles at Aqua Bar
- Expansive and welcoming Grand Class King Suite
- Serene sea views from the infinity pool
Accommodations
Situated adjacent to the much larger Grand Velas Los Cabos, the more intimate boutique hotel features 79 spacious suites, all of which are at least 900 square feet and include a living area with sofa, walk-in shower, and two queens or one king size bed. With garden or ocean views, each suite’s private terrace is large with outdoor seating, accompanied by a Jacuzzi or plunge pool and firepit. A contemporary Mexican design throughout features a neutral palette with handsome textural interest and Mexican art complemented by metal accents. Plus, lush flora, including the brand’s signature pink bougainvillea, can be enjoyed throughout the property.
I was lucky enough to stay in one of the 1,500-square-foot Grand Class King Suites, which offered sweeping ocean views, as well as a private terrace with a plunge pool and firepit. Inside offered two spacious living areas. The stunning natural spa-inspired design continued the wellness focus.
Like all the resort accommodations, the suite included daily turndown, round-the-clock personal concierge service, a daily stocked premium minibar with refreshments and snacks, red and white wine, artisanal Mezcal, a Nespresso Vertuo Coffee Maker, and an electric tea pot. A high-definition flat screen, Molton Brown bath amenities, Dyson hair dryers and straighteners, an aromatherapy diffuser, goose down pillows and comforters, and a pillow menu are also included. Further adding to the wellness focus, the bathroom featured a vitamin C filtered handheld showerhead that neutralizes chlorine, saves water, and leaves guests with shiny, luscious hair and a glowing complexion.
While it was tempting to simply hunker down in this gorgeous suite, there was so much to explore and enjoy throughout the resort.
Se Spa
I’ve visited multiple Grand Velas properties, including Grand Velas Los Cabos and Grand Velas Riviera Maya, each of which boast expansive spas that are impressive in size, scope, and vast menu options. However, I especially enjoyed the intimate, personalized nature of Se Spa at Grand Velas Boutique Hotel Los Cabos.
The spa features four elegant oceanview treatment rooms, two of which are dedicated to couples’ services. All treatments include a seven-step Grand Velas signature Wellness Ceremony, which takes guests through a series of restorative environments including a sauna, steam room, ice room, and sensorial shower tunnel. A culminating magnesium pool experience offers a bubble chaise lounger, standing-bubble geyser, glute and calf jets, and Jacuzzi to soothe and invigorate.
I always appreciate the creativity and indigenous inspiration of the spa menus at Grand Velas spas, and this innovative spa menu infused with Mexican culture didn’t disappoint. I enjoyed the Cahelmet signature massage, which takes inspiration from Baja California Sur’s rich flora and fauna, incorporating techniques based on the movements of the region’s iconic wildlife, such as the rattlesnake, puma, golden eagle, manta rays, and whales. Additionally, it blends the sounds of the ocean and the desert with the scents of local flora, like white sage and agave.
For those who want a more expansive wellbeing experience, the property has rolled out a variety of pampering packages, such as the Couples Mind Detox Retreat, which includes a Connection Concierge service, daily chakra and mantra meditation sessions, morning yoga classes, a personalized health consultation, and spa treatments. Recognizing the importance of rest in any wellness journey, the experience also includes special in-suite aromatherapy for sleep and a guided stargazing session in Los Cabos, one of the world’s top astronomy destinations, according to NASA.
Additionally, there is a Technogym fitness center with the latest line of equipment, so it’s easy to maintain your workout regime while in paradise.
Dining
Guests of Grand Velas Boutique Hotel have access to Grand Velas Los Cabos’ five gourmet restaurants, but there were so many scrumptious options at the boutique hotel, I never left and was perfectly satisfied.
Upon arrival, the concierge met me at 51 Bar, where I was welcomed with a gold-infused cocktail and an assortment of freshly baked pastries. Later in the day, a full range of grab-and-go sushi was available, making it a great spot for a scrumptious snack. Another favorite spot to grab a light bite was Roca Snack & Bar. The freshly prepared ceviche, enjoyed while I stared at the stunning Sea of Cortez, was a true delight. My favorite was the Tuna Tostada, which included tuna with creamy avocado, macha sauce, tuna cracklings, yuzu, crushed chili vinaigrette, and chili oil. I also loved the daily breakfast at Del Mar, where the offerings were fresh and delicious.
The culinary highlight of the property is Loto Robata Grill, led by two-Michelin-star chef Sidney Schutte. There, traditional Japanese flavors are merged with the art of slow grilling over open flames. The menu offers a variety of small bites to start, so I suggest ordering several options and sharing. As for the main course, the Spicy Beef Tenderloin and the Surf and Turf Skewers were particular standouts.
Pool & Beach
The stunning beach and infinity pool are yet another healing highlight at Grand Velas Boutique Hotel. The botanical-designed infinity pool offers plenty of places to relax and enjoy views of the private beach, where whales frolic during the winter months. Snacks and cocktails are available all day, and a pool concierge is on-hand to help meet any needs, from healthy bites to suncare to helping make arrangements for activities. Meanwhile, for those who may want to relax on the beach, Balinese beds and umbrellas are available seaside.
Indeed, the property offers something for everyone. From romantic escapes to girls trips and guys getaways to weddings and small corporate retreats, serenity seekers will find wellness-inspired luxury everywhere they look.
