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The Riviera resort that’s a welcome alternative to the glitz of the Côte d’Azur, this eco-conscious enclave proves tradition and modernity can live in harmony.
It really isn’t too hidden away, but compared to the other all-singing-all-dancing resorts that sweep up Riviera Maya, the dirt track driveway and lack of signage make Chablé Maroma seem like a little secret only the select few know about. The brand took the Yucatan jungle by storm, now it’s time for the coast to get its hands on the impeccable service (there’s three staff members to every one villa), deep wellness focus and sustainability-driven ethos.
And much like its sister property, Mexico’s ancient ways are celebrated in full, from the villas’ raw-yet-refined furnishings to the traditional experiences like Temazcal ceremonies on the spa’s menu and learning the culinary secrets of the ‘Chi Chis’ – or Grandmothers to us.
Not too big, but not too small, 70 individual casitas make it so there’s a buzz about the place without it being chaotic. There’s the odd child here and there, but the overall atmosphere is very grown-up.
Cancun-based designer Paulina Morán, whose work can also be found over in the Yucatan property and Hotel Esencia on the other side of Playa del Carmen, is to thank for that. Her signature way of merging the natural surroundings and local materials make the hotel feel like it has always belonged on the white sand of one of the Mayan Riviera’s best beaches.
Chablé Maroma is aimed at the people who like a side of paradise with their escapades and their spirituality both in their Shaman guided self-discovery and the mezcal they’re sipping on by the pool (the tiles of which are a 60s cyan dream). While the spring breakers live it up in Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Chablé’s guests are waking up to fresh pastry and coffee deliveries every morning and taking cooking classes from an expert in Mexican cuisine. But if that pang of wanderlust hits, nothing is too far away.
The three dining venues pack a punch; Kaban surprises with fresh seafood flavours, Bu’ul restaurant has made the bold decision to only feature a tasting menu, and its accompanying rooftop Raw Bar is unique to the Riviera featuring some best-in-class ceviche and oysters. Then there’s the spa, where well-being journeys are deeply rooted in Mayan mysticism inspired by purification from the ocean, balance from the tree and transformation from the air. Think meditative ceremonies around an ancient spiritual Alamo tree and a four-handed massage, called The Tree of Life treatment, that realigns the body, mind, and soul.
From the second largest coral reef in the world just below the waves to the protected reserve Isla Contoy close by, there’s a wealth of biodiversity right on the doorstep.
If you ask nicely though, Maroma will open up its little black book of secrets, revealing some under-the-radar spots that are often bypassed by the tourist crowd. One of these is Kaan Luum Lagoon, a local favourite close to Tulum with colours akin to an agate slice.
The Riviera resort that’s a welcome alternative to the glitz of the Côte d’Azur, this eco-conscious enclave proves tradition and modernity can live in harmony.
Hitting all the sweet spots with its riviera setting and freeing access to a showcase of scintillating parks; this Mayan-inspired boutique entices chocoholics, tipple-seekers, and nature-lovers alike.
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