Zel, a collaborative lifestyle brand from Meliá Hotels International and tennis player Rafael Nadal, has announced its first establishment in Punta Cana will open on December 12, 2024. Following the success of its inaugural hotel, Zel Mallorca, in 2022 and the opening of its second location, Zel Costa Brava, in 2023, Zel Punta Cana marks the brand’s expansion into the Americas.
The all-inclusive resort is situated less than 30 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport and just a short stroll away from the white sands of Bavaro Beach. It will open with 190 nature-inspired guestrooms with layouts ranging from 796 to 2,152 square feet, including Suite, Master Suite and Swim-Up Suite options that have private gardens that lead directly to the pool. The Casa Zel Swim-Up Suites have two bedrooms (both with king beds), separate living room and dining space, a terrace with a whirlpool for two and a Balinese bed in the garden. The guestrooms also offer local Spanish-favorite Café de Finca specialty coffee.
Two swimming pools, five tennis courts, dedicated meeting spaces, a full-service spa, six dining experiences and a beach club round out the hotel's amenities.
When it comes to culinary choices, Parda is a Mediterranean-style buffet; Volcan will have an asador grill; Tacorini will serve a fusion of Mexican and Greek cuisine; and Nokyo is where Japan meets the Mediterranean. Wine enthusiasts can sample a selection of wines and spirits at Silvestre. Guests can also enjoy a wide variety of cocktails at Voltaje, a lobby bar embellished with gold touches and jewel tones. The Beach Club pairs food with a lively ambiance.
This new location also offers Zel Club, which will host expert-curated weekend retreats that will include a blend of sports and activities, relaxation on the beach and social connection to the community. Weekly daytime programming at Zel Club will blend holistic wellness and entertainment in a social setting that cultivates connection for hotel guests and club visitors alike. The hotel will also introduce the Fitness Residency that will consist of a series of exclusive classes and activities including running sessions, Pilates, yoga and more.
The AUA Spa is dedicated to self-care, with a whirlpool, sauna, steam room and private treatment rooms to enjoy massages, facials, body treatments, beauty services and more. The gym welcomes guests to utilize the equipment at their own pace or with the guidance of an on-property personal trainer to curate custom routines based on each guests’ needs. Group activities including guided yoga and meditations are available, with an abundance of outdoor space on the beach or in the gardens serving as an ideal backdrop.
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