WRITTEN BY Teresa Greco
Venturing into the southern zone of the exclusive Isla Mujeres, Mexico, I discovered a paradisiacal haven that transcends the ordinary: the Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets. This ultra-luxurious resort is nestled gracefully amid the breathtaking natural landscape of the island. Reminiscent of romantic Mediterranean cities along the sea, this all-inclusive property harmoniously integrates with the island’s natural beauty, offering guests a unique experience that blends elegance, sustainability, and an unbridled sense of adventure.
Exquisite Arrival
Your vacation begins when you embark on the resort’s designated speed boat or, in my case, catamaran at Marina Hacienda del Mar (50 minutes from Cancun International Airport). I knew I was in for an unparalleled experience as I enjoyed the wind through my hair and the warmth of the sun on my skin during the 40-minute ride to the island. It was a fitting prelude to the captivating experience that awaited me, as this exclusive retreat boasts a spectacular vantage point overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea and the Cancun hotel zone, setting the stage for unforgettable sunsets that paint the sky in mesmerizing hues.
On a private pier extending into the sea, you are greeted by a team of staff who take your luggage, offer you a refreshing hand towel and beverage, and escort you to the main lobby to get checked in for your stay.
Elevated Suites and Endless Privileges®
The suites at Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets, part of the prestigious Impression by Secrets line, epitomize contemporary luxury infused with Endless Privileges® inclusions, where everything is included, such as unlimited dining and drinks, personalized butlers, and 24-hour concierge service. Each of the 125 modern suites offers refined elegance and comfort reminiscent of Mediterranean coastal towns with natural stone and wood surfaces in cream, soft brown, and turquoise blue hues.
Boasting spectacular views, some overlooking the serene Caribbean Sea and others capturing the scenic Cancun hotel zone, the suites’ interior finishings seamlessly blend with the outdoor colours and textures of the sea and sand. I would suggest upgrading to the Signature Junior Suite Ocean View rooms and above, as they feature a sitting nook perfect for enjoying the evening’s sunset or finishing some work, a terrace with a hot tub and a hammock facing spectacular ocean views of the Caribbean Sea, and a comfortable lounge area.
The personalized butler service ensures that every guest’s desire is catered to with meticulous attention to detail. Each suite is adorned with elevated amenities, including a complimentary beach tote and sun hats, fully stocked wine coolers with snacks, and secluded in-suite dining, ensuring an indulgent and tailored experience for every guest.
Impeccably designed, the bathrooms are a sanctuary of indulgence, featuring dual rain showers and premium bath amenities from Le Labo that evoke a sense of spa-like tranquillity. The in-suite tablets serve as a comprehensive guide to the resort’s offerings and services, ensuring seamless navigation throughout the stay.
Conscious Sustainability and Environmental Guardianship
You cannot help but become enamoured by the artwork throughout the property. Centrally embedded within the essence of Impressions Isla Mujeres by Secrets lies the noble mission of the Saving our Sharks Foundation and the captivating shark sculptures by prominent Mexican artist Cesar López Negrete. Among the remarkable highlights is “The Temple,” an expansive wedding gazebo meticulously constructed following bio-architectural principles by the locally celebrated architect Javier Uma. The resort’s commitment to preserving both social and environmental integrity impressed me. The Saving our Sharks Foundation aims to protect sea life, our oceans and to change the lives of local fishermen communities and their families by empowering them to transition to ecotourism and citizen science monitoring and vigilance activities. By embracing eco-conscious initiatives, the resort minimizes the use of single-use plastics and harnesses solar energy to heat water, significantly reducing its ecological footprint.
Gourmet Indulgence at Every Turn
Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets takes pride in its culinary prowess, offering five gourmet à la carte dining options and two casual venues, promising a gastronomic journey that surpasses expectations. I would highly recommend the following restaurants: Spezia offers breathtaking ocean views while indulging in refined à la carte Mediterranean cuisine by Master Chef Noe Miron, boasting Italian specialties like beef carpaccio, zuppa di pesce, and wood-fired pizza; Inspired by Asian cuisine under the guidance of Master Chef Paolo Parlanti, immerse yourself in Japanese teppanyaki-style cooking and Pan-Asian flavours at Sake; Set in a relaxed ambiance, delight in gourmet grilled specialties at Wildfire Grill, including steak and seafood dishes; Revel in sophisticated rooftop dining at UNIK The Kitchen, offering light tapas during the day and a diverse à la carte menu in the evening, blending French, Peruvian, and Mediterranean flavours, complemented by an array of mixology at the rooftop bar.
Unparalleled Activities and Wellness
At Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets, guests can indulge in a variety of amenities both at the beach and within the pool areas. The resort’s beach area offers alluring on-water hammocks and Bali beds, inviting guests to unwind in ultimate comfort amid the coastal beauty. Exhilarating water adventures include sliding down a thrilling waterslide into the ocean, swimming with whale sharks, and snorkelling or scuba diving in the MUSA Cancun Underwater Museum of Art.
For poolside relaxation, the tiered infinity pools create a visually stunning setting, and there’s a remarkable 30-person hot tub near the ocean. In the evening, you can enjoy live music in The Temple or on the rooftop terrace, UNIK, which features infinity pools, inviting fireplaces, and a stylish restaurant and bar. The rooftop created the perfect mood one evening as I immersed myself in the music of the live DJ and violinist who synchronistically played songs that moved me to dance while appreciating the glow of the fireplaces, Cancun’s lit skyline in the far distance, and the moon’s reflection on the Caribbean sea.
The resort’s commitment to holistic well-being extends to the PURE SPA by Natura Bisse, offering an array of indulgent treatments, hydrotherapy, and rejuvenating experiences, including Hammam and Floatation treatments. I enjoyed participating in the Sunset Ceremony, e-bike tour to nearby Punta Sur and the Ixchel Mayan Temple, sound healing meditation, and working out in the fitness center; activities that cater to wellness enthusiasts like myself ensure a holistic and revitalizing stay.
A Visionary Culmination of Luxury
Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets is more than just a luxury resort; it’s an immersive sanctuary where guests are ushered into a world of refined indulgence without compromising on ecological responsibility. Its dedication to providing an exceptional guest experience through bespoke services, cultural immersion, and thoughtful amenities ensures that every visit is a harmonious blend of luxury and enrichment. As the sun set over the turquoise waters, casting a golden hue across the horizon, I departed on the catamaran while admiring the overwater cabanas illuminated by romantic torches in the distance.
To explore further or make reservations, check out https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/mexico/impression-isla-mujeres-by-secrets/seiim
