Grand Luxxe Rating: 4.0 Pearls

Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico

Defining itself as the premier high-end Mayan property, the Luxxe does well to live up to its claim. The design aesthetic is creative and thoughtful, something guests will notice the minute they step into the lobby. A black, rough slate wall defines the lobby, which is finished with dark, rich woods, striking artwork, and elegant chandeliers. Outside, guests stroll among lush, verdant gardens, winding down trails that lead to the two pools (one family, one adults-only) and the beach.

Between the multiple resident buildings the golf course, the beach, and the pool area, the place is sprawling -- which is a plus for some, a minus for others. Depending on which building guests stay in, they may have to take a golf cart to get from their room to the pool unless they want to walk a lot.

There are currently two towers of rooms and suites that are operational, and there are others being built, making a tranquil stay sometimes hard to come by.

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The Grand Luxxe is one of the many properties owned by Grupo Maya, a time share company based in Mexixo. Guests enter the Mayan property through a gate, and then it's another two- to three-minute drive to the lobby of any of the hotels. The scene is somewhat reminiscent of an office park since all the hotels are about the same 10-story height.

The properties are nestled in the southwest corner of the beachside town of Nuevo Vallarta, which is about 20 minutes outside Puerto Vallarta. Nuevo Vallarta was developed in the 80s as a resort community. The area is home to numerous hotels and luxurious vacation rentals, and it attracts visitors with its white-sand beaches. To keep up with the community's increasing needs, restaurants and shops continue to spring up (although there are still fewer restaurants in this area than in others). There are a couple of golf courses, as well as tennis courts, a small zoo, and several spas. A waterpark is also popular among families.

Nuevo Vallarta is less crowded than Puerto Vallarta, despite its focus on tourism. This is perhaps due in part to the rougher waters (that are great for surfing) and the high temperatures and rainfall, which peak higher in the summer months than in other Puerto Vallarta destinations. Dolphins and turtles also enjoy the seclusion of the area -- dolphins can be spotted in the calm waters of the lagoon and turtles lay their eggs on the shore.

• 10-minute drive to the Puerto Vallarta airport
• 20-minute drive to downtown Puerto Vallarta
• 15-minute drive to Marina Vallarta

Grand Luxxe is the higher-end member of all of the Mayan properties -- and it's obvious. There are three room types here: the Grand Room, the Suite, and the Grand Suite (a combination of the other two). Most of them are huge with large private terraces and amazing views (though many of these are reserved for time share owners).

• All rooms and suites have huge terraces with views of the ocean or mountains s to the mountains.
• 42-inch flat-screen TVs in every bedroom and living room
• Double-size tile shower
• Etro toiletries in bath
• Contemporary decor with beautiful wood and stone details
• Long writing and work desk with glass top
• The Master Room has two double beds or one king bed, two trundle bed sofas in living room area, and a terrace.
• Suites have a king bed, two terraces, a soaking Jacuzzi tub, and a kitchenette with stainless steel appliances.
• Master suites combine the Master Room and the Suite, and have a plunge pool on the terrace.

• Nice outdoor pool, plus an adults-only pool
• Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course
• Huge fitness center and spa
• On-site boutiques
• Tennis courts
• Multiple restaurants, plus access to amenities at all other Mayan properties
• Guest laundry
• View full list of amenities

• Punta Arena: seafood restaurant down by the beach, offers seafood luncheons and dinners in an open air atmosphere
• A seafood “market” allows guests to choose their fresh fish for dinner.
• Epazote: Mexican food, in the lobby and the lobby terrace behind
• Blue Fish: poolside seafood lunch option
• Guests can walk or take the tram to any other Mayan property restaurants, bars, or snack bars, including Café del Lago (the only breakfast place around).