Grand Velas Los Cabos

Mexico is quickly becoming one of my absolute favorite travel destinations.

I've had some amazing opportunities to travel there these last two years (to Tulum, Mérida, Izamal, Valladolid, Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and Los Cabos) despite only visiting the country for the very first time in January 2016.

And this past weekend I attended the Morelia En Boca Food Festival in Morelia, Mexico. Which was has completely ruined me for food everywhere else.

But as I'm unpacking and filtering through the 3k of photos I took, I'm realizing I still have so many amazing stories to tell you from my trip to Los Cabos in March too.

Including the most important part: our incredible hotel.

If you're looking for a luxurious, beach-front all-inclusive in Mexico with some authenticity and real culture to it, look no further.

Welcome to the incredible paradise that is...

Grand Velas Los Cabos

THE HOTEL

Grand Velas Los Cabos is easily one of the most beautiful hotels I've ever seen, let alone had the privilege to stay at.

From the moment you arrive, you are pampered and cared for in a way that feels downright royal. And, with the stunning architecture, luxe details, and endless stretches of pristine beaches along the Sea of Cortez, I can't imagine a more regal setting in Los Cabos.

From their seven amazing restaurants to their stunning three-tiered infinity pool to the endless amenities and care you'll receive, I strongly suspect you'll fall as deeply in love with Grand Velas Los Cabos as I have.

THE ROOMS

The rooms at Grand Velas are ENORMOUS. And, embarrassingly, much larger than my apartment back home in Chicago.

From the rain showers to the in-room whirlpool tubs to the spacious (and private!) balconies all facing the sunrise on the Sea of Cortez, you can't help but feel completely pampered in your room.

The super-fast wifi certainly helps too!

THE SPA

Photos are prohibited throughout most of the spa area at Grand Velas which is a blessing and a curse at the same time -- it's easily one of the most beautiful and thoughtfully designed spas I've ever been to.

And while I wish I could have shot more of the space, it's something you'll just have to experience for yourself. I particularly recommend their Blue Agave Candle Massage!

THE POOL

Oh this stunning pool! I don't think I've ever fallen more in love with a pool.

This three-tiered infinity pool is one of the most photogenic spaces I've ever gotten to shoot. Whether it was at sunrise, during the day, or at sunset, I couldn't stop myself from shooting HUNDREDS of photos of this stunning space.

I recommend waking up early one to shoot before the other guests wake-up -- having the whole pool to yourself is positively magical!

THE FOOD

With SEVEN on-property restaurants in addition to room service, Grand Velas Los Cabos is one of the most delicious all-inclusives I've ever eaten at. From a fine dining gastronomy experience heralded by a two-Michelin starred chef to seaside ceviche, there's guaranteed to be a dish you'll fall in love with!

AZUL

Grand Velas's buffet option is shockingly delicious and authentically Mexican (unlike so many other all-inclusive buffets).

We ate here most mornings and thoroughly loved the fresh-made omelettes, variety of juices, and all the Mexican pastries! Not to mention the view of the beach just below...

ROOM SERVICE

I only had the opportunity to order room service once during our trip, on our last day, but was incredibly impressed.

Everything is delivered with white table linens, fresh fruit, and delicious coffee. That combined with the view from your hotel room of the Sea of Cortez below made for such a romantic experience -- even solo.

CABRILLA

Grand Velas Los Cabos' poolside cevicheria may have been my favorite restaurant of all if only because the relaxed atmosphere coupled with the incredibly fresh seafood make this the sort of spot you never want to leave.

We were especially smitten with the smoked marlin tostadas and oysters which are both must-trys!

COCINA DE AUTOR

Last summer, while in Amsterdam, I had the opportunity to try the afternoon tea at the Waldorf Astoria but never their two-Michelin-starred restaurant Librije Zusje. Cocina de Autor is Chef Sidney Schutte's only restaurant outside of the Netherlands.

And it's a game-changer.

I'm not usually the type to like a "gastronomy journey" or a meal consisting of more than 5 small plates (can I just have two large ones?) but Cocina de Autor BLEW. ME. AWAY.

This was by far one of the most interesting and creative meals I've ever experienced and absolutely shouldn't be passed up -- even if the concept of "small plates" sends you running. I promise, you will leave with a VERY full belly. And having eaten some of the coolest conceptual food you'll ever have the pleasure of experiencing.

FINAL THOUGHTS...

My stay at Grand Velas Los Cabos feels like a beautiful dream.

I can almost smell the Sea of Cortez from my balcony.

I can almost taste that smoked marlin tostada still...

And I can almost feel the sand beneath my toes.

I've stayed at many magical hotels before, but none quite like this. I hope to bring back Hubby soon and eat my way through the rest of Grand Velas's restaurants!

BOOK YOUR STAY HERE

Disclosure: I received a complimentary stay at Grand Velas Los Cabos through the Mexican Board of Tourism to facilitate this post. Review and all opinions are ALWAYS my own.