Maroma Resort & Spa

Secluded, exclusive, Eden-like beachfront resort on the Maya Riviera

Set on the fringes of 300 acres of jungle and coconut plantations, Maroma Resort & Spa by Orient Express is surrounded by lush tropical trees and plants, and fronted by one of the most beautiful stretches of beach in the Caribbean (voted one of the top 10 beaches in the world by the Travel Channel). A peaceful haven in an otherwise very developed area of the coast, Maroma feels a million miles away from the fleshpot of Cancún. This is the way to enjoy the Caribbean coast without having to endure the spring breakers and raving masses.

Architect José Luis Moreno, the brains behind the project, described the development as a 'protest against mediocrity' (only one-tenth of the site on which Maroma is built is developed - the rest is jungle). This may sound pretentious, but it’s nice to know that some people care about the environment and the result is, in our opinion, one of the most special luxury beach resorts in the Yucatán - perfect for a honeymoon or rejuvenating both body and spirit.

Highs

• It's set on one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico - miles of powdery white sands washed by the clearest turquoise sea
• The 65 luxury rooms and 1 villa feel private and exclusive
• The haute cuisine on offer is prepared to international standards
• You'll find welcoming staff and personal 'no fuss' service
• You can choose from an array of massages, facials, Reiki sessions, Ayurvedic treatments and yoga classes in the excellent spa
• It's just 40 minutes from Cancún airport, yet feels blissfully secluded

Lows

• You'll need a car if you want to explore, as the restort is reached via a mile-long rough track through dense jungle (though transfers to and from the airport are included in the room rates)
• Strong sea breezes can make you feel chilly in the evenings and on cloudy days (although they're heaven sent on hot days!)
• It's expensive for mere mortals, and extra charges can soon mount up
• Reports suggest some rooms are becoming a little dated and faded around the edges