Grand Velas Spas Named Among World’s Most Luxurious

With the release of its first ever verified list of the world’s most luxurious hotels and spas, Forbes Travel Guide has highlighted 30 outstanding spas across six different countries, each of which was evaluated on up to 900 standards by anonymous inspectors. SE Spa at Grand Velas resorts in Riviera Nayarit and Riviera Maya were both named among the top performers.

Each spa on the list reflected the specific standards Forbes inspectors delve into, with detailed attention paid to the level of luxurious choices and conveniences offered.

At Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, the spa spans 16,500 sq ft, with a palapa-style entrance, Balinese furnishings and a large marbled wall with cascading water. Guests can begin their spa experience with the Hydrotherapy Ritual, which includes a revitalizing shower, herbal steam and sauna, a dip in the two-temperature lagoon, soak in the Jacuzzi and multi-jet Swiss shower, before venturing to one of the 20 treatments rooms, high-performance gym, spa boutique and beauty salon.

The treatments here are grouped into seven ceremonies: Huichol, Water, Wind, Earth, Fire, Diamond and Beauty. And many comprise organic elements such as coffee, chocolate and aromatherapy oils.

Over at Grand Velas Riviera Maya, meanwhile, the architecturally striking SE Spa reflects the inspiration that was taken from the Yucatan Peninsula’s jungle and natural water pools, with stones, plants and streams specific to the landscape incorporated into the curved design by Mexican architects EliasElias AR. The two-level spa spans more than 89,000 sq ft with separate Water Lounges for men and women featuring custom-designed amenities like a Clay Room, Ice Room, Experience Showers and central infinity pool with powerful massaging faucets and carved stone chaises with jets positioned just beneath the surface of the water.

Signature treatments at this spa also incorporate natural products that have significance in Mayan culture, from coffee and cacao to vanilla and local honey.