Review: Royal Uno All Inclusive Resort & Spa

I don’t usually wake up early when I’m staying at a beach resort. But I’m glad I did at Royal Uno All Inclusive Resort & Spa, because the sunrise views from my balcony were simply spectacular.

So was the view from my early-morning yoga class, which took place on a deck in the adults-only pool area. Beautiful vistas are just one of the selling points of this family-friendly resort, which opened last year as a new brand within the Royal Resorts portfolio. The 540-room property is the result of a massive reimagining of the former Royal Caribbean resort, and during my three-night stay, I explored the myriad activities and experiences the new brand offers.

A Prime Location in Cancun’s Hotel Zone

Royal Uno’s location is certainly an asset: Set within Cancun’s Hotel Zone, it’s an ideal option for travelers who have grown tired of long rides from Cancun International Airport to far-off resorts. At Royal Uno, guests spend just 15 to 20 minutes getting between the airport and Cancun’s legendary turquoise waters and silky beaches. In addition, the location provides easy access to other attractions and activities in Cancun — including Museo Maya de Cancun, an impressive Maya archeological museum that’s a quick walk from the hotel.

But you don’t need to leave the property to have a memorable time. Royal Uno is well-equipped to satisfy a variety of age groups with plenty of activities, dining options and entertainment. And the refreshed decor and attractive design is certainly inviting, with lots of natural light and stylish use of wood furnishings and accents throughout the resort.

Indulgent Experiences: Alea Spa and On-Site Dining

One of my favorite ways to indulge at Royal Uno was a two-hour visit to the beautiful Alea Spa. I immersed myself in a one-hour hydrotherapy circuit in a lush, open-air space, then moved on languidly to a therapeutic, one-hour massage treatment. Adjacent to the spa is the expansive fitness center, which is open from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

When it comes to dining, Royal Uno has seven food and beverage outlets with various tasty culinary offerings, so it’s easy to keep one’s palate entertained. Among my favorite dishes was the pescado al pastor (marinated, grilled seafood) at Os, a beautifully designed international restaurant centered around a generous and diverse buffet.

I also had a remarkable dinner at Miamare, where I fell in love with the homemade breads and delectable seafood ravioli, all served on a terrace offering the property’s best views of the sunset over the lagoon (indoor seating is also available). And I spent yet another noteworthy evening at Palotinte, a stylish contemporary Mexican eatery, where I dug into cerdo pelon, a hearty serving of pork that fell right off the bone. I also made frequent stops at Faro 32, a 24-hour coffee shop that stocks a tempting collection of sweet treats and even serves crepes.

Activities and Entertainment for Kids, Teens and Adults

Royal Uno’s multiple pool areas provide plenty of space to relax, swim and — if you feel like it — join in activities such as pool volleyball and Zumba classes. Children, meanwhile, can make good use of the large waterpark and spend time at the Royal Uno Kids Club, a free program for kids ages 4 to 12. Teens have their own space, too; the Cancool family room offers video games, movies, board games and other diversions (adult family members can also partake in the fun).

I was especially impressed by the variety of after-dark live entertainment at this property. I enjoyed performances that included a tango show at Kukul Cantina and a Mexican dance show on the rooftop of Star Bar, which serves as the hip, adults-only pool area by day. (Star Bar also hosted a lively and talented rock band on another night.)

No matter how much I appreciated the activities around the resort, I was always happy to return to my own personal oasis: a comfy oceanfront king room with a balcony that was perfect for having a drink and taking in the view. I admired the thoughtful features such as a separate tub and shower, well-designed lighting and a table perfect for both eating and working.

Travelers looking to splurge may want to consider reserving the 1,324-square-foot Uno Beachfront Suite with Plunge Pool accommodation, which opens onto the beach and provides even more space to unwind.

Whatever clients choose, at Royal Uno, there are infinite ways to set the stage for a memorable vacation.