PUNTA CANA — Meliá Hotels International has officially swung open the doors to its newest resort in the D.R., The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real, as well as neighbouring Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort for adults-only and Meliá Caribe Beach Resort for families.

Meliá made good on its plans, first reported in June 2018, to transform Meliá Caribe Tropical resort into two distinct properties, Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort and Meliá Caribe Beach Resort. The two properties opened their doors this past weekend.

All in all the three properties boast a combined US$140 million in work and renovations – $30 million for Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort and Meliá Caribe Beach Resort, and $110 million for The Grand Reserve. Melia says The Grand Reserve, the third Paradisus property to open in the D.R., is the first of its kind in the Paradisus portfolio and will feature ultra-luxe amenities.

The Grand Reserve has 288 expansive, brand new accommodations ranging from 800 to over 3,000 square feet. Suites feature either one or two bedrooms and amenities including living and dining spaces, independent soaking tubs and walk-in showers, as well as private secluded balconies with hydro-massage whirlpool tubs and outdoor living spaces.

The Grand Reserve’s Swim-Up Suites offer one or two-bedroom accommodations with direct access to an exclusive pool, complete with lush garden areas and a solarium.

With an immersive culinary program, The Grand Reserve also features 14 restaurants and bars including a gourmet market, modern steakhouse with open-format kitchen, ceviche bar featuring fresh signature ceviche’s, pokes and tartars, Asian-inspired concept featuring a sushi bar, teppanyaki and robatayaki tables and what Melia says is one of the most exclusive beach clubs in the Caribbean. Also debuting at its first Paradisus property is Black Oak, a modern take on the classic cigar bar offering a premium selection of cigars, liqueurs and artisanal cocktails.

Activities include relaxing at the Beach Club along Bavaro Beach, participating in WOGA (water yoga) or taking a fitness class at the Circle Studio featuring new fitness equipment. There’s also Blast! AquaFun Park, a kid’s adventure park featuring water games and slides.

Also debuting alongside the resort and new to the Paradisus portfolio are the MAIA Signature Treatments by Natura Bissé. The new spa features products by the Spain-based beauty line and boasts 14 treatment rooms and a relaxation room.

Guests will be able to Stay at One & Play at Three, with complete access to the extensive property offerings at both The Reserve and Paradisus Palma Real, with 15 restaurants including Passion by Chef Martin Berasategui, who holds 10 Michelin stars (additional cost), YHI Spa and YHI Spa Oriental Garden, five pools and complimentary Life Enriching Experiences. Opening rates start at US$354 per night, all-inclusive, double occupancy.