Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Iberostar Averroes
Velas Resorts vs Iberostar Hotels & Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Iberostar Averroes |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.1 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 4.5 |
| Room Count | 307 | 256 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 2 |
| Pools | 4 | 3 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | 2001 |
| Year Renovated | — | 2015 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Iberostar Averroes |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive | Yes | Yes |
| Adults Only | No | No |
| Beach Access | Yes | Yes |
| Spa | Yes | Yes |
| Kids Club | Yes | Yes |
Dining Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Iberostar Averroes |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 7 |
| Included | 11 | 5 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 2 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Iberostar Averroes |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 8 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 2 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Iberostar Averroes |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 25 |
| Included | 18 | 16 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 9 |
Pros & Cons
Grand Velas Los Cabos
Pros
- The only all-inclusive in the world simultaneously holding Forbes Five Stars, AAA Five Diamonds, and a MICHELIN-starred restaurant — a genuine distinction, not a marketing claim
- Cocina de Autor's 8-10 course tasting menu with wine pairing is fully included in the all-inclusive rate — at a standalone restaurant this would cost hundreds per person
- Every suite starts at 1,081 sq ft with ocean views, private terrace jacuzzi, and 24-hour butler concierge — the entry suite here exceeds most competitors' top categories
- Three-tier infinity pools naturally segregate family, activity, and adult-only zones without restricting access — practical design rather than strict policy
Cons
- Beach is not swimmable — Los Cabos Pacific currents make ocean swimming dangerous; the infinity pools are where guests actually swim
- Cocina de Autor is restricted to adults and guests 18+ — families with younger children can't access the MICHELIN-starred restaurant during their stay
- Rates start around $1,600/night in low season and $1,800+ in peak winter — a significant commitment that requires being genuinely invested in the Five Diamond experience to justify
Iberostar Averroes
Pros
- Private beach with complimentary loungers and parasols — no separate sunbed charge, unlike many comparable Spanish Iberostar properties.
- Buffet food quality and authentic Tunisian integration (briks, couscous, tajines) runs above what the price tier would suggest.
- The hammam and Turkish bath are genuinely practiced here, not decorative spa theater.
- Proximity to Kairouan and Carthage — historically significant sites that most beach holiday destinations can't offer.
Cons
- Air conditioning and heating only operate during specific seasonal windows — shoulder months have neither system running.
- The Olivier restaurant is included but restricted to once per stay per guest — the best food on property is artificially rationed.
- Only local Tunisian beverages are fully included; imported spirits are charged separately even on the all-inclusive rate.
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Los Cabos is the larger property, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.