Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection vs Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Domes Resorts vs Velas Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 8.3 | 9.8 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 198 | 267 |
| Restaurants | 5 | 8 |
| Pools | 5 | 4 |
| Year Opened | 2008 | 2003 |
| Year Renovated | 2020 | 2015 |
Features
| Metric | Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive | No | Yes |
| Adults Only | No | No |
| Beach Access | Yes | Yes |
| Spa | Yes | Yes |
| Kids Club | Yes | Yes |
Dining Comparison
| Metric | Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 17 | 9 |
| Included | 5 | 9 |
| Extra Charge | 12 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 10 | 12 |
| Suite Categories | 5 | 11 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 23 |
| Included | 15 | 21 |
| Extra Charge | 12 | 2 |
Pros & Cons
Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection
Pros
- Two Michelin-starred chefs operating simultaneously on one property is exceptional — Anthos and Makris Fine Dining give this resort dining credibility that few Greek resort properties can match.
- Every single accommodation has a private jacuzzi or pool — no need to pay for a top-tier suite to get one.
- Spinalonga Island views from the resort are among the most historically and visually dramatic settings at any Cretan resort.
Cons
- Anthos, Makris, Yaosai, and Antonino's are all extra charge — the premium dining program costs real money on top of an already high room rate.
- The adults-only pool can be cool if unheated in shoulder season — confirm pool heating dates when booking for May or October.
- Golf buggy service is essential due to the hilly terrain — not a walkable resort for guests with mobility limitations.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Pros
- AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star simultaneously — one of the most decorated all-inclusive resorts in Mexico
- Suites start at 1,000 sq ft with private terraces, ocean views, and 24-hour butler concierge — the entry level here exceeds most competitors' premium categories
- Premium spirits, wines, and 24-hour room service are fully included — not standard at most all-inclusives, even premium ones
- Banderas Bay is swimmable — actual ocean swimming possible, unlike Los Cabos Pacific corridor properties
Cons
- Pool lounger competition peaks by 8 AM in high season (December through March) — early rising is required for preferred positions
- Some ocean view suites have partial obstructions from palm trees or the Selva del Mar restaurant building — ask at booking about specific suite positioning
- Piaf and Frida fill up during high season — book before arrival rather than assuming walk-in availability
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is the larger property, while Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection has more dining venues, while Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection offers more activities.