What it’s like to stay at Atelier Playa Mujeres, one of Cancun’s newest 5-star properties
I saw an advertisement on Staff Travel Voyage agency website for a brand new 5-star all-inclusive resort, Hotel Atelier, in Playa Mujeres, Mexico. I didn’t know much about the hotel or area, but I knew I needed a beach getaway. The resort is approximately 30 minutes from Cancun airport, nestled between other award-winning luxury resorts.
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Atelier Playa Mujeres Review- The Resort
The Hotel Atelier opened in April 2019 and is a modern concept inspired by the art and design of contemporary Mexico. Mexican creatives designed the resort to give guests a new luxury experience, combining art and nature. Atelier is an adults-only resort, so all guests must be 16+.
Playa Mujeres is a famous luxury beach destination due to its marina and world-class golf facilities. Cancun might be known for its pool parties and entertainment; however, Playa Mujeres provides a small haven of unspoiled paradise.
Gated Entrance
Atelier focuses on guest safety and security, so the property is gated and requires guest identification to access the resort.
The drive through the property was breathtaking, and the valet waiting with hand towels signaled my arrival. As I walked into the resort, the bell porter collected my belongings and set up a luggage trolley for me while I checked in. The grand lobby amenities include a full-service bar with a pool and ocean view.
The resort was still under construction; however, I never heard any outside noise in my room.
Check-In
At check-in, there were no long lines or unnecessary waiting. A staff member immediately greeted me and ushered me to her desk. I filled out forms, and waiters graciously offered me a sparkling wine in a champagne flute.
Once I finished checking in, the staff shared the complimentary WiFi passcode and room keys. The keys are not standard hotel keys but woven bracelets, a way for guests to easily access their rooms and order all-inclusive amenities. I also downloaded the Atelier cell phone app, which provided dining information and room access.
Since I booked with Staff Travel Voyage, I was upgraded to an ocean—and pool-view balcony.
The Rooms
I was thankful to receive a corner king room steps from the main pool. All of the rooms have wooden doors and beautiful stained glass. With a flash of the wrist, my bracelet opened the door, and the porter set up my bag while I inspected the room and balcony view.
The bathroom was separated by sliding doors. The shower was grand and included a rain shower head. There were two marble sinks, and beautiful green tile lined the floor.
The king bed featured floor lights that activated with nighttime movement. A new flat-screen TV was placed in front of the bed, allowing me to browse the hotel amenities from the screen. A minibar area, a couch, a table, and a desk were set up around the room.
Finally, the balcony awaited me with views of the largest pool I have ever seen, not overshadowed by an ocean view.
If needed, the hotel provides 24-hour room service and serves various desserts to guests’ rooms throughout the day.
The Pools
During the day, I spent time by the main pool, which stretched as far as the eye could see. Of course, the pool had two swim-up bars stocked with top-shelf liquor. The menu featured several beer and liquor options.
Once evening hit, I celebrated by relaxing in one of the several hot tubs. It was an excellent way to end a full day in the sun.
Rooftop Infinity Pool Views
I spent my night lounging by the rooftop infinity pool—as if the main pool wasn’t relaxing enough. A large bar was also fully stocked with more top-shelf liquor, beer, and wine. The bartenders were friendly, welcoming, and always nearby to take our orders.
I loved sitting in the comfortable lounge chairs and looking out to the ocean.
The Beach in Playa Mujeres, Mexico
One afternoon, I went to the beach and relaxed on a daybed overlooking the sparkling sea. As much as I loved the pools, I wanted to spend at least one day enjoying the ocean view. Few people were around, making it feel like a private beach.
A beach bar was also nearby, so an attentive waiter would occasionally pass by and offer to refill my glass. Many activities were set up for guests, such as volleyball, kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing. The sand was white and as soft as clouds.
Across the ocean, the lights of Isla Mujeres flickered with invitation. Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island and offers a unique snorkeling experience. Book with a tour group from the concierge or spend your day exploring the island by golf cart.
Atelier Playa Mujeres Review- The Food
Breakfast
For breakfast, I ate at El Suspiro and Mercado 19. El Suspiro serves Mexican cuisine, and the Mercado is a Mexican buffet. I ordered my favorite Mexican breakfast dishes- huevos divorciados, chilaquiles, and enchiladas. It hit the spot for Mexican food cravings. The buffet also offered cereal, yogurt, and hot meals.
Lunch
I ate lunch by the pool at El Suspiro and El Trompo. El Suspiro serves seafood during the day, and I loved the tuna and sea bass ceviche. El Trompo serves gourmet poolside snacks; I loved the calamari and nachos. Every meal came with chips and guacamole and attentive staff.
5-Star Restaurants
I enjoyed breakfast and lunch but was incredibly excited to try the restaurant. Most all-inclusive restaurants have long lines and serve mass-prepared food, but Atelier has several delicious fine dining options. The quality of the food was impressive, and I never needed a reservation. During my stay, 4 of the restaurants were open.
Friday night, I ate at Los Abrazos, a steakhouse located upstairs next to the rooftop infinity pool. For an appetizer, I sampled the beef carpaccio and crab cakes, and for my main dish, I ordered the beef fillet, macaroni and cheese, and mashed potatoes.
On Saturday night, I was invited to the María Dolores restaurant. It is a restaurant dedicated to serving Mexico's ingredients in specially prepared dishes. Reservations typically cost $95 per person.
The experience included a seven-meal course with paired wines and dessert. I especially enjoyed the beet coffee with dahlia flowers and the sea scallops with cured fish sauce and beans.
On my last night, I ate at Cilento, an Italian restaurant. The portions were small, so I ordered several plates. I started with beef carpaccio, octopus, and burrata. For my main meal, I tried the ravioli in veal sauce and duck confit.
Atelier Playa Mujeres Review- The Activities
Gorgeous Spa and Fitness Center
For those looking for deep relaxation, the Nuup Spa offers a selection of superior treatments and services. Once the spa is completed, there will be 18 treatment cabins with spa suites and private showers.
There will also be lounges, a tea station, saunas, pools, and a beauty salon. In addition to the spa, there will be a bridal Dress-Up Lounge ®, a private area for bridesmaids and the bride to prepare for a wedding.
The fitness center was not finished but open to guests. It includes several treadmills, bikes, and workout equipment.
The resort also provides a yoga room, tennis courts, and paddle ball courts.
Golf Course
Next to the hotel is a world-class golf course. It has 18 holes and is located in an unspoiled natural landscape. The golf course is available to guests on their first day, and reservations must be made with the concierge. Guests can practice games before tee-off, are provided transportation from the lobby, and receive club and cart rental assistance.
Art Gallery
The art gallery in the lobby is open to the public from 3 to 11 p.m. I walked in one night, and the staff was very knowledgeable about the artists and their collections. I especially loved the works of Damián Lescas and Nicolás Guzmán Aguilar. There were beautiful portraits of all types of animals and the sea.
Atelier Playa Mujeres Review- Leaving Paradise
My three days at the Hotel Atelier in Playa Mujeres was incredible, and I would definitely book a future stay here.
The resort and facilities were A+, and the service was exceptional. I loved the secluded location and the relaxing atmosphere. Atelier is perfect for older families and couples, although friends looking for a quiet getaway would also enjoy Atelier.
Make your way to Playa Mujeres, Mexico, and experience world-class service alongside a seductive view of the Cancun waters.
