Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Rixos Borovoe
Velas Resorts vs Rixos Hotels — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Rixos Borovoe |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.7 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 200 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 6 |
| Pools | 4 | 3 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | 2012 |
| Year Renovated | — | — |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Rixos Borovoe |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Rixos Borovoe |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 10 |
| Included | 11 | 1 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 9 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Rixos Borovoe |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 15 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 7 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Rixos Borovoe |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 22 |
| Included | 18 | 10 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 12 |
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
Rixos Borovoe
Pros
- The only Rixos all-inclusive in a national park—Borovoe's pine forests and Lake Shchuchye are genuinely worth a dedicated trip for the right guest.
- Hammam and Finnish sauna included in the base rate, not treated as an upsell—meaningful in a cold-weather destination.
- Winter activity program (skiing, ice skating, sledging) extends the resort's appeal beyond the standard summer season.
Cons
- Four of the specialty restaurants are extra-cost à la carte—the all-inclusive label covers only the L'Olivo buffet for main meals.
- Kazakhstan's first wake park and most adventure activities (rope park, horseback riding, go-karts) carry additional charges.
- Astana airport is 287 km away—plan the transfer in advance; options are not as developed as in Western resort markets.
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.