Zel, the lifestyle brand resulting from the collaboration between Meliá Hotels International and tennis player Rafael Nadal, in which relaxation, sport, fitness and social connection come together, has just announced the opening of its first establishment in Punta Cana on December 12. Surrounded by nature and next to spectacular beaches, Zel Punta Cana will welcome guests from all over the world with a unique hotel experience in which the Mediterranean lifestyle merges with the Caribbean charm of the island. Following the success of its first establishment, Zel Mallorca, which opened its doors in 2022 and the opening of the second, Zel Costa Brava in 2023, this hotel marks the beginning of the brand's expansion on the American continent.
Zel Punta Cana is ideally located less than 30 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport and just steps from the stunning white sands of Bavaro Beach. Inspired by the warm homes, outdoor culture and spontaneous lifestyle of the Mediterranean, Zel brings this unique vision and fuses it with the corresponding local culture to offer a one-of-a-kind experience.
The all-inclusive resort features 190 nature-inspired rooms ranging in size from 74 m2 to 200 m2 including suites, master suites and swim-up suites that feature private gardens leading directly to the pool.
Perfect for couples, groups of friends and families, the Casa Zel swim-up suites feature two bedrooms, both with king-size beds, separate living and dining areas, a terrace with a whirlpool for two and a Balinese bed in the garden for a truly sophisticated stay. The rooms feature specialty coffee from
Spanish brand Café de Finca, perfect to enjoy upon waking in the morning or during the day. The hotel also features two swimming pools, five tennis courts, meeting spaces, a spa with a selection of treatments, six dining experiences and a beach club. The Zel Punta Cana store will offer guests local
and international brands, including Romualda, Casa MariCruz, Chakana, OAS, Octaevo and Printworks.
With a love of the outdoors and a slow living philosophy serving as inspiration for the design, the rooms have been conceptualised with colours, textures and shapes that convey the natural world inspired by the Mediterranean style. Guests set their own pace, and each room is a place of relaxation, wellbeing and
rejuvenation. With Meliá’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental harmony as a priority, the hotel’s interior pays homage to its natural surroundings as well as its many Mediterranean influences, with an unmistakable warmth complemented by maritime touches.
Zel Punta Cana offers culinary experiences that bring international cuisine to the Caribbean. Parda is a Mediterranean-style buffet that takes diners on a journey through the vibrant cultures and rich traditions that inspired the Zel brand with fresh, local ingredients. Volcán captivates with its grill. Guests can dine among the delicious aroma of steaming meats and fresh herbs for a truly immersive experience. At Tacorini, the fusion of Mexican folklore and Greek elegance comes to life, serving a delicious combination of tacos and gyros.
Nokyo will offer a unique blend of Japanese minimalism and Mediterranean charm, with a carefully curated selection of Japanese dishes. Wine lovers can sample the finest selection of wines and spirits at Silvestre, a wine cellar bathed in natural light and decorated with wooden furnishings. Guests can also enjoy a wide variety of cocktails at Voltage, a dynamic lobby bar adorned with gold accents and jewel tones. The beach club offers the perfect combination of delicious food and a lively atmosphere, perfect for relaxing by the beach.
This new location also offers everything travelers need to enjoy active wellness on vacation with the renowned Zel Club, for the enjoyment of those who lead a healthy and social lifestyle. Zel Club will host expertly curated weekend retreats that will include the ideal mix of sports and
activities, beach relaxation and social connection with the community. To showcase the festive side so characteristic of the Mediterranean lifestyle, Zel Club will host festivals and day parties to celebrate the opening and closing of seasons, holidays but also without the need for the occasion to be marked.
“We consider Zel to be a true Mediterranean embassy and look forward to introducing our lifestyle experience to Punta Cana,” said Gabriel Escarrer, President and CEO of Meliá Hotels International. “Together with Rafa, we decided to embark on this adventure to share our easy-going values and warm culture with our
guests around the world. The Caribbean is a destination full of its own special charm that perfectly complements the Zel brand, creating a vacation retreat unlike any other.”
Weekly daytime programming at Zel Club will combine holistic wellness and entertainment in a social environment that cultivates connection for both hotel guests and external clients. Partners leading weekly activities at Zel Club include industry experts and recognized leaders in health, fitness and wellness. The hotel will also introduce its Fitness Residency – a series of signature classes and activities, including running, pilates, yoga and more, designed to engage hotel guests and external clients alike in active wellness pursuits.
The AUA Spa is a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation that allows guests to unwind. The wellness area focuses on self-care and features a hot tub, sauna, steam room and private treatment cabins to enjoy massages, facials, body treatments, beauty services and a
variety of services from the extensive treatment menu. The state-of-the-art fitness center is an incentive for guests to use the cutting-edge equipment at their own pace or with the help of a personal trainer who designs their own personalized routine based on each guest’s individual needs.
Group activities such as guided yoga and meditation are offered, with extensive outdoor space on the beach or in the gardens serving as the ideal backdrop to unwind while working out.
Source: Meliá Hotels International.