The Best Resorts in Cancún, Mexico

What an entrance! A giant metal bowl spouting real flames, in a lobby of towering, temple-like walls, is your welcome at Nizuc. It sets the tone for the magnificence to come: 274 suites and villas, spread about acres of lush tropical gardens. The gorgeous guest rooms merge Mexican design with Asian minimalism in soothing surrounds of natural stone and local wood. This is well-heeled, golf-buggy territory: it’s how guests reach their appointed activities, treatments and tables at meal times. You might subscribe to yoga on paddleboards, or try the Mayan cleansing ceremony in the first ESPA-branded spa in the Mexican Caribbean.

The comfort levels are reassuringly corporate, the color scheme is calming and the spa is the star: 35,000sqft devoted to balancing mind, soul and body. The treatment list is mind-boggling, featuring local ingredients and traditional techniques. You can ask for a massage in the open air and tune out to the hiss of waves. You can eat (pretty much) the world: Thai, Japanese, Italian, Mexican, Caribbean; then burn calories at the ocean-view gym or daily fitness classes.

The Mayan-futuristic-looking exterior of this adults-only goliath belies the unassuming, serene world within: rooms are designer-dreamy, with gentle tones and ocean views. The ambience is calm throughout, with music and aromatherapy drifting wherever you go. There are seven swimming pools and the spa and yoga lessons are hugely popular. You’re close to some of Cancun’s best shopping options, as well as the Underwater Museum: a submerged sculpture park featuring 400 statues made from moulds of local residents.

Against the brilliant backdrop of Caribbean blue, this four-star is all about entertainment and activities. You’ll find the works, from tennis courts and golf courses, to swim-up bars and an infinity pool with slides that’s a hit with families. Couples time is factored in too; the spa has a moonlight massage on the menu – served with champagne and chocolate covered strawberries. It’s also well located, right across the road from the desirable La Isla Shopping Village with its upscale boutiques, cinemas and eateries.