Zel, a collaborative lifestyle brand from Meliá Hotels International and tennis player Rafael Nadal that blends relaxation, sports & fitness, and social connection, has announced its first establishment in Punta Cana has opened. Nestled amongst nature and from spectacular beaches, Zel Punta Cana will welcome guests from around the world with a unique hospitality experience that combines the Mediterranean lifestyle with the island charm of the Caribbean. Following the success of its inaugural hotel, Zel Mallorca, in 2022 and the opening of its second location, Zel Costa Brava in 2023, this hotel marks the brand’s expansion into the Americas.
Zel Punta Cana is ideally situated less than 30 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport and just a short stroll away from the stunning white sands of Bavaro Beach. Inspired by the welcoming homes, outdoor culture, and spontaneous lifestyle of the Mediterranean, Zel brings this unique vision to destinations with their own distinct cultures for a one-of-a-kind experience.
The all-inclusive resort features 190 nature-inspired guestrooms with layouts ranging from 796 to 2152 sq. ft. including Suites, Master Suites, and Swim-Up Suites that feature private gardens that lead directly to the pool. Perfect for couples, friend groups, and families alike, the Casa Zel Swim-Up Suite features two bedrooms both with king beds, separate living room and dining space, terrace with whirlpool for two, and Balinese bed in the garden for the most sophisticated stay. The guest rooms feature local Spanish-favorite Café de Finca specialty coffee, perfect to enjoy upon waking up in the morning and through the day. The hotel also features two swimming pools, five tennis courts, dedicated meeting spaces, full-service spa, six dining experiences, and a beach club. Zel Punta Cana’s concept store will feature both local and international brands including Romualda, Casa MariCruz, Chakana, OAS, Octaevo, and Printworks for guests to shop.
With the love of the outdoors and philosophy of slow living serving as design inspiration, the rooms have been conceptualized with colors, textures and shapes that convey the natural world inspired by Mediterranean style. Guests set their own pace, with each room serving as a place of relaxation, wellbeing, and rejuvenation. With Meliá’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental harmony a priority, the hotel’s interior pays homage to its natural environment as well as its many Mediterranean influences, with an unmistakable warmth complimented by maritime touches.
“For our first Zel location outside of The Med, Punta Cana was the natural choice,” said Rafael Nadal, co-creator and inspiration for the Zel brand with Meliá Hotels International. “With the unique nature that welcomes guests from around the world, the Caribbean is the best compliment to the Mediterranean values and lifestyle and makes Zel Punta Cana the ideal place to enjoy endless days of relaxation, sports, and celebrations.”
Zel Punta Cana brings culinary experiences that bring the world to the Caribbean. Parda is a Mediterranean-style buffet that invites diners on a journey through the vibrant cultures and rich traditions that inspired the Zel brand through local fresh ingredients. Volcan captivates with its asador grill, where guests can dine among the delicious aroma of sizzling meats and fresh herbs for a truly immersive experience. At Tacorini, the fusion of Mexican folklore and Greek elegance comes to life, serving a delightful combination of tacos and gyros. Nokyo will offer a unique blend of Japanese minimalism and Mediterranean charm, featuring a carefully curated selection of Japanese dishes. Wine enthusiasts can sample the best selection of wines and spirits at Silvestre, a winery adorned in natural sunlight and wood furnishings throughout. Guests can also enjoy a wide variety of cocktails at Voltaje, a dynamic lobby bar embellished with gold touches and jewel tones. The Beach Club boasts the perfect pairing of excellent food and a lively ambiance, perfect for relaxation by the beach.
This new location also offers everything that travelers need to enjoy active wellbeing on their vacation with the renowned Zel Club, which encourages a community that shares in a healthy and social lifestyle. Zel Club will host expert-curated weekend retreats that will include the ideal blend of sports and activities, relaxation on the beach, and social connection to the community. To showcase the essential festive side of the Mediterranean lifestyle, Zel Club will host festivals and day parties to celebrate the opening and closing of seasons, holidays, and just-because occasions.
“We consider Zel to be a Mediterranean embassy and look forward to introducing our lifestyle experience to Punta Cana,” said Gabriel Escarrer, Chairman and CEO of Meliá Hotels International. “Together with Rafa, we decided to embark on this adventure to share our worry-free values and warm culture with our guests around the world. The Caribbean is a destination with an abundance of its own special charm that perfectly complements the Zel brand, creating a holiday retreat unlike any other.”
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. Partners leading the weekly activities at Zel Club include industry experts and renowned leaders in the health, fitness, and wellbeing. 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, designed for both hotel guests and the public to partake in the active wellbeing activities.
The AUA Spa is a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation that allows guests to disconnect. The wellness area 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 from the extensive menu of treatments. The state-of-the-art gym welcomes guests to utilize the cutting-edge 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 to get lost in a fitness routine.
