Honest Review of Xcaret Arte Resort

Planning a destination wedding can be both exhilarating and challenging, especially when trying to find a venue that captures the essence of your chosen location while accommodating the needs of your guests. For us, getting married in Mexico was a dream, but convincing our family—who aren’t frequent travelers—was a hurdle. Safety concerns loomed large, fueled by media portrayals. To ease their worries, we opted for a resort wedding. While this decision came with its own set of benefits, we couldn’t help but think about what could have been if our family was a little bit more adventurous. Enter Xcarte Arte.

Although we didn’t ultimately choose Hotel Xcarte Arte for our wedding due to budget considerations and accessibility concerns for some of our guests, the resort left a lasting impression on us. If you’re considering a destination wedding in Mexico that truly makes you feel like you’re in the Mexican Jungle, this resort might just be the perfect fit.

A First Impression That Wows

From the moment you arrive at Hotel Xcarte Arte, you’re transported to a world of pure beauty. The resort’s architecture seamlessly blends with the surrounding natural landscape, with rope bridges swinging between buildings and lush greenery everywhere you look. It’s truly an escape that immerses you in the culture and environment of the region.

Culinary Delights at Every Turn

One of the standout features of Hotel Xcarte Arte is the food. The resort offers an incredible variety of dining options, each one more impressive than the last. Whether you’re a foodie or just appreciate a good meal, you’ll be blown away by the creativity and quality of the cuisine here. From Japanese Tepanjaki to Cantina Viaipy, which boasted a whole menu of “seasonal insects”, the food was truly an adventure. A surprise favorite for us was the rooftop vegan restaurant, which served up a brunch we won’t soon forget. And if you’re looking for a unique dining experience, head to Las Vuevas, a restaurant located in a lagoon on the family side of the resort. Even the pickiest eaters can find something they enjoy at one of the resort’s two buffets or the beautiful steakhouse built into a natural cave.

Drinks

From the moment I received a hand muddled mango margarita at a POOL BAR, I knew the drinks here were going to be on a different level. While, just like at most all inclusives, they weren’t particularly strong but where they lacked in potency they made up for in creativity and flavor. I highly recommend spending an evening at the speakeasy. It’s a weird walk but once you arrive you’re greeted with a party that lives up to the rest of the resort. Most nights they had a band or some kind of lively entertainment but it was the atmosphere that really set it apart.

Rooftop Pools and Jungle Hikes

For those who love to explore, Hotel Xcarte Arte is a dream come true. The resort is massive, with hidden paths, art installations, and even hiking trails that wind through the jungle. Take the morning to walk up the temple, it’s unlike anything you’ve ever witnessed and the view is spectacular! Each building has its own rooftop pool, complete with bars and amazing service. Most of these pools are open to all guests, giving you plenty of opportunities to relax and take in the stunning views.

Comfort and Convenience

While the room we stayed in wasn’t particularly extraordinary compared to other resorts, it was comfortable and well-appointed. The hammock on the balcony was a nice touch, and we loved it so much that we ended up purchasing a few to take home. However, if you’re booking a room, be mindful of the different classes available, as some limit access to the family side of the resort.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay

Prepare to Get Lost: The resort is huge and full of hidden paths. If you enjoy exploring, this is a plus, but if you prefer knowing exactly where you are at all times, download the hotel’s app right away. The app’s map feature will help you navigate the property with ease.
Indulge in the Spa: Even if you only have an hour, splurge on the hydrotherapy experience at the spa. It’s located in a man-made cave and offers an unforgettable relaxation experience, complete with a sauna, ice bath, steam room, and pool. The spa is so impressive that it deserves its own dedicated post!
Book Dinner Reservations Early: The resort boasts eight restaurants, three of which require reservations. These spots fill up quickly, so be sure to book your reservations as early as possible to enjoy the full culinary experience.
Plan for Special Assistance: If you have guests with mobility concerns, make arrangements with the hotel in advance. The resort’s natural, multi-level design can be challenging to navigate, especially for those using assistive devices. We recommend requesting a room in Building 4 on the 3rd floor for easier access.

Final Thoughts

Hotel Xcarte Arte is an exceptional venue that could make for an unforgettable destination wedding. While we chose a different path for our own wedding, this resort remains at the top of our list for its breathtaking scenery, top-tier dining, and unique amenities. If you’re looking for perfectly clean, white sand beaches and spending time in the sand as the waves crash in is important to you, this probably isn’t your resort but if you want to give your guests a truly immersive experience, Hotel Xcarte Arte is well worth considering.