What it’s like to stay at Atelier Playa Mujeres, one of Cancun’s newest 5-star properties

I saw an intriguing advertisement on Staff Travel Voyage’s website to book a stay at the new 5-star all-inclusive resort, Hotel Atelier, in Playa Mujeres, Mexico. I didn’t know much about the hotel or area, but I knew I needed a beach getaway. Once I learned the property is only 30 minutes from the Cancun airport and nestled between other award-winning resorts, I happily booked a 3-night stay in paradise.

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Atelier Review- The Resort

Concept and Location

Atelier Playa Mujeres officially opened its doors in April 2019 and describes itself as a modern resort inspired by the art and design of contemporary Mexico. The hotel’s designers aimed to create a new luxury experience for guests, thoughtfully crafting 593 rooms with ocean views, jungle views, or luxurious swim-up suites. Atelier is an adults-only resort, so all guests must be 16+.

Playa Mujeres is a renowned luxury beach destination known for its marina and world-class golf facilities. Cancun attracts guests interested in nightlife and entertainment; however, Playa Mujeres provides a small haven of unspoiled paradise for those looking to unwind. Atelier is located along an ideal stretch of sand, beckoning guests with its crystal blue waters.

Gated Entrance

Guests staying in the Mexican Caribbean value safety, so the Atelier property is gated and requires guest identification for entrance. Although it’s located in a quiet enclave of Cancun, extra security is always a welcome amenity. Once you make your way through the gates, the beautiful Atelier grounds welcome you with open arms.

The drive up to the entrance is breathtaking, as the contemporary landscape and minimalist pools and walkways subtly hint at the luxury that awaits inside. As I exited my ride, the valet warmly greeted me, making me feel at home. His offer of a cool hand towel happily signaled the start of my vacation. Once I walked into the resort, the bell porter collected my belongings and set up a luggage trolley for me while I checked in. The grand lobby amenities include a full-service bar with a pool and ocean view.

Check-In

At check-in, there were no long lines or unnecessary waiting. A staff member immediately greeted me and ushered me to her private desk. As I filled out forms, waiters graciously offered me sparkling wine in a champagne flute.

Once I finished checking in, the staff shared the complimentary WiFi passcode and handed me a woven bracelet instead of keys. The bracelets function as room keys, providing an easier way for guests to access their rooms and order all-inclusive amenities. I also downloaded the Atelier cell phone app, which provided dining information and digital room access.

The Rooms

After a long flight and a thankfully quick check-in process, I was ready to check out my room. With a flick of the wrist, my bracelet opened my door, and I admired my space for the next few days. The room was airy and bright and had a nice view of the main pool and jungle from my balcony. I was thankful to receive a corner king upgrade steps from the pool.

The bathrooms are separated by sliding doors, providing guests a bit more privacy. The showers are grand, and include a rain shower head. There are two marble sinks, and beautiful green tile line the floor.

The king bed featured floor lights that activated with nighttime movement. A new flat-screen TV was placed in front of the bed, allowing me to browse the hotel amenities from the screen. A minibar area, a couch, a table, and a desk were set up around the room.

If needed, the hotel provides 24-hour room service and serves guest rooms with various desserts throughout the day.

The Pools

During the day, I spent copious amounts of time by the main pool, which stretched as far as the eye could see. Of course, the pool had two swim-up bars stocked with top-shelf liquor. The menu featured several beer and liquor options, so guests are able to order most of their favorite drinks.

Once the evening hit, I celebrated by relaxing in one of the several hot tubs. It was an excellent way to end a full day in the sun.

Rooftop Infinity Pool Views

I spent my night lounging by the rooftop infinity pool—as if the main pool wasn’t relaxing enough. A large bar was also fully stocked with more top-shelf liquor, beer, and wine. The bartenders were friendly, welcoming, and always nearby to take our orders.

I loved sitting in the comfortable lounge chairs and looking out to the sea.

The Beach in Playa Mujeres, Mexico

One afternoon, I went to the beach and relaxed on a daybed overlooking the sparkling sea. As much as I loved the pools, I wanted to spend at least one day enjoying the ocean view. Few people were around, making it feel like a private beach.

A beach bar was also nearby, so an attentive waiter would occasionally pass by and offer to refill my glass. Many activities were set up for guests, such as volleyball, kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing. The sand was white and as soft as clouds.

Across the ocean, the lights of Isla Mujeres flickered with invitation. Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island and offers a unique snorkeling experience. Book with a tour group from the concierge or spend your day exploring the island by golf cart.

Atelier Review- The Food

Breakfast

For breakfast, I ate at El Suspiro and Mercado 19. El Suspiro serves Mexican cuisine, and the Mercado is a Mexican buffet. I ordered my favorite Mexican breakfast dishes- huevos divorciados, chilaquiles, and enchiladas. It hit the spot for Mexican food cravings. The buffet also offered cereal, yogurt, and hot meals.

Lunch

I ate lunch by the pool at El Suspiro and El Trompo. El Suspiro serves seafood during the day, and I loved the tuna and sea bass ceviche. El Trompo serves gourmet poolside snacks; I loved the calamari and nachos. Every meal came with chips and guacamole and attentive staff.

5-Star Restaurants

I enjoyed breakfast and lunch but was incredibly excited to try the restaurant. Most all-inclusive restaurants have long lines and serve mass-prepared food, but Atelier has several delicious fine dining options. The quality of the food was impressive, and I never needed a reservation. During my stay, 4 of the restaurants were open.

Friday night, I ate at Los Abrazos, a steakhouse located upstairs next to the rooftop infinity pool. For an appetizer, I sampled the beef carpaccio and crab cakes, and for my main dish, I ordered the beef fillet, macaroni and cheese, and mashed potatoes.

On Saturday night, I was invited to the María Dolores restaurant. It is a restaurant dedicated to serving Mexico's ingredients in specially prepared dishes. Reservations typically cost $95 per person.

The experience included a seven-meal course with paired wines and dessert. I especially enjoyed the beet coffee with dahlia flowers and the sea scallops with cured fish sauce and beans.

On my last night, I ate at Cilento, an Italian restaurant. The portions were small, so I ordered several plates. I started with beef carpaccio, octopus, and burrata. For my main meal, I tried the ravioli in veal sauce and duck confit.

Atelier Review- The Activities

Gorgeous Spa and Fitness Center

For those looking for deep relaxation, the Nuup Spa offers a selection of superior treatments and services. Once the spa is completed, there will be 18 treatment cabins with spa suites and private showers.

There will also be lounges, a tea station, saunas, pools, and a beauty salon. In addition to the spa, there will be a bridal Dress-Up Lounge ®, a private area for bridesmaids and the bride to prepare for a wedding.

The fitness center was not finished but open to guests. It includes several treadmills, bikes, and workout equipment.

The resort also provides a yoga room, tennis courts, and paddle ball courts.

Golf Course

Next to the hotel is a world-class golf course. It has 18 holes and is located in an unspoiled natural landscape. The golf course is available to guests on their first day, and reservations must be made with the concierge. Guests can practice games before tee-off, are provided transportation from the lobby, and receive club and cart rental assistance.

Art Gallery

The art gallery in the lobby is open to the public from 3 to 11 p.m. I walked in one night, and the staff was very knowledgeable about the artists and their collections. I especially loved the works of Damián Lescas and Nicolás Guzmán Aguilar. There were beautiful portraits of all types of animals and the sea.

Leaving Paradise and Hotel Atelier

My three days at the Hotel Atelier in Playa Mujeres were relaxing and fulfilling, tempting me to immediately book another stay.

The resort and facilities are A+, and the service is exceptional. I loved the secluded location and the relaxing atmosphere. Atelier is perfect for older families and couples, although friends looking for a quiet getaway would also enjoy Atelier.

Make your way to Playa Mujeres, Mexico, and experience world-class service alongside a seductive view of the Caribbean waters.