This island jewel, opened in 2000 at the evolving Uvero Alto region a 40-minute drive from Punta Cana, is breathtaking and is designed expressly for monied couples seeking a romantic retreat away from the other crowded resorts. The difference here is in the details, with an exclusive intimacy a hallmark and moonlit horseback rides along the torch-lit beach a favorite pastime. The property is exquisitely landscaped and features some intriguing architectural elements recalling the early colonial epoch.
Beyond the spacious port-cochere entrance, the open-walled lobby glistens with a surfeit of marble, including thick columns. Oversize rattan sofas and matching tables invite lounging and enjoying the sound of water tinkling in the fountains.
The dining experience here is exceptional and rises to the highest of international standards. Seven restaurants feed guests with cuisine ranging from Mexican and French to Asian and even a lobster restaurant, and both buffet and a la carte options create different mealtime experiences. As may be expected, a dress code applies in all seven a la cart restaurants. No less than ten bars are scattered throughout this property, including the lobby martini bar, a snazzy sports bar with dress code, and the sophisticated yet laid-back beachfront X-lounge. The casino opens nightly for guests-only and serves complimentary beverages to guests.
The secluded beach is a treasure compared to the jam-packed sections found in front of other properties. The huge pool is a haven due to its serene atmosphere, tumbling waterfalls, scores of lounge chairs and stocked swim-up bars linked by meandering extensions off the pool. Bridges connect the different sides and lead to the second pool area and whirlpools, and draped Balinese beds scattered about add to the romantic mood. The spa and fitness center are comprehensive, with more services and facilities than most in the area, including a steam room and vaulted-roof fitness room. A variety of non-motorized watersports are included in the rates, including bocce ball, riflery, and squash, but golf course fees are not. A selection of fine shops keeps fat wallets happy.
Meeting rooms accommodate up to 220 in impressive surroundings, including an executive boardroom, and business services are provided for a fee (although guests of the Excellence club enjoy complimentary services).
Sumptuous truly defines guest quarters, in tri-level units. All rooms and suites feature a light, vaguely Islamic tropical decor featuring clinical whites and soothing pastels, plus tile floors, air conditioning, ceiling fans, king four-poster beds or two doubles with scalloped rattan headboards, satellite TVs, radio alarm clock, CD/DVD players, direct-dial phones, stocked refrigerators, safes, iron and ironing board, rattan lounge chairs, private whirlpools and balconies, plus fluffy robes and slippers. Baths have hair dryers, coffeemakers, ample vanity space and separate showers and whirlpool tubs open to the bedroom through columned half-walls. Of particular note are the swim-out junior suites that allow certain accommodations on the ground floor to float out to the pools directly from the room. Excellence club rooms require a surcharge, but add a private concierge and registration area, private meal and snack lounge, complimentary Internet access, turndown service and upgraded amenities. Complimentary room service is available round the clock, and crisply dressed and well-trained staff is multilingual.
This is a true island paradise resort that welcomes couples from all over who are willing to pay the higher price tag. One of the classiest digs in the country, it outshines most contenders in the Punta Cana region, and competes against the nearby Sivory Punta Cana and Tortuga Bay, in Punta Cana.
