Two MFC-exclusive infinity pools with Ionian Sea views are a genuine differentiator — the view quality justifies the MFC upgrade for many guests
Staff quality is consistently cited as one of the best aspects of the property — attentive, warm, and responsive
Clear, calm Ionian Sea adjacent to the property — the water quality on this stretch of Zakynthos is notably good
Mare Nubium à la carte restaurant performs meaningfully above the buffet standard and provides real variety on longer stays
Outdoor gym facilities are an unusual inclusion — the open-air workout area is popular for early morning sessions
Cons
Amboula Beach is primarily pebble and stone, not sand — a detail that surprises guests expecting the sandy beaches shown in general Zakynthos photography
The resort has many steps throughout — guests with any mobility limitations should request ground-floor access rooms and confirm building layout before arrival
Some rooms and bathrooms have received complaints about condition (mold smell, worn fixtures) despite the 2015 renovation — request a recently refreshed room at check-in
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
Pros
Cocina de Autor is the first all-inclusive restaurant in the world to earn both a MICHELIN star and AAA Five Diamond — included in the rate
SE Spa with Forbes Five Stars, 90,000+ square feet, and 40+ treatment suites is one of the largest and most awarded resort spas in Mexico
Three distinct ambiances mean guests in Zen Grand have a completely different resort experience from guests in Grand Class — useful for multi-room group bookings
Tulum ruins are 15 minutes away and cenote tours are easy half-day excursions from this location
Cons
Zen Grand suites are three-quarters of a mile from the beach — the shuttle runs frequently but beach access requires active planning
Cocina de Autor and Piaf book up as far as 6 months in advance in peak season — call before arrival rather than assuming on-arrival booking
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Maya has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Riviera Maya has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Riviera Maya is the larger property, while Grand Velas Riviera Maya has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Riviera Maya offers more activities.
