Review: Eden Roc Cap Cana – fun, sun and golf in the Caribbean

Along the coastline of Punta Cana, on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean, lies Eden Roc Cap Cana, the country’s only luxury Relais & Chateaux resort.

It boasts 60 guest rooms and suites, white sandy beaches, a marina, a children’s play area, and a golf course. Eden Roc is the pinnacle of luxury, catering to individuals, couples and families.

It’s no surprise, then, that the resort has drawn the attention of celebrities, including singer Beyoncé and actress Jennifer Lopez, whose 2022 action-romcom Shotgun Wedding was filmed at this five-star coastal property.

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Eden Roc offers a range of accommodation, including apartment-like suites and villas, such as the Founder’s Villa, which can host 22 guests in 11 bedrooms overlooking the golf course, with amenities such as a private swimming pool, gym, personal chef and dedicated concierge.

In this gated community of pastel-coloured villas, reminiscent of the colourful houses on London’s Primrose Hill, but in the tropical Caribbean climate, I stayed in a pink junior villa with a private pool. The villas look like they have come straight out of a packet of sherbet.

Inside my villa, the open-plan layout was airy with high ceilings, neutral decor, and complimentary Champagne and fresh fruit. Along with a spacious bathroom, there was an outdoor shower and a walk-in wardrobe.

For those who dare, golf buggies are provided to guests who wish to navigate the resort themselves. But if you would prefer not to drive, your concierge can arrange lifts, despite the resort being easily walkable.

Take to the fairways

Eden Roc Cap Cana is located in a secluded setting that lends itself to relaxation. But there are also a number of activities on offer should you prefer to make the most of your stay.

I took part in a sound healing session, for instance, which uses the sound produced from the vibration of bowls of various sizes containing water to induce relaxation and reduce stress. I also enjoyed an oxygen-hydrating facial at the in-house Solaya Spa, which was similarly relaxing.

For foodies, there are cooking workshops making mofongo, a traditional Caribbean dish made from fried plantain and other locally sourced ingredients, and mixology classes at the beach bar to help you make the perfect cocktail. Additionally, the resort hosts a cigar-rolling seminar that teaches you the history of tobacco production in the Dominican Republic.

Golf enthusiasts can, of course, play at Punta Espada, a signature golf course designed by the legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus. This 18-hole, par 72 championship course has the added benefit of the extraordinary views of the sea beyond the emerald fairways.

Afterwards, you can trade in your golf buggy to rent a Moke – a modern homage to the beloved mini car of the 1960s, which is currently enjoying a revival – to explore the beauty of Cap Cana, including the town centre, the local marina and Los Establos, a world-renowned equestrian centre that offers horse-riding lessons.

Parents can relax by the infinity pool or on the beach, while children can safely enjoy the kids’ pool, watched by lifeguards. Koko Kids’ Club, located in a tree house on a lagoon, provides activities for children aged four to 12 and a private babysitting service is available too.

Wake up to a Dominican breakfast

Eden Roc offers a gastronomical adventure with many dining options, ensuring guests will never be bored.

At the Blue Grill and Bar by the turquoise lagoon, fried plantain crisps dipped in guacamole are the snack du jour, while the buffet breakfast contains familiar favourites such as French toast and crêpes, but do try a traditional Dominican breakfast with mashed plantain, fried salami, deep-fried cheese and fried eggs.

Not too far away will be Blue, the restaurant’s eponymous cat, who will be making his rounds.

Before dinner at Mediterraneo, where you can enjoy fine Mediterranean cuisine with live music, guests should enjoy cocktails at the accompanying Riva Bar.

Restaurant La Palapa takes inspiration from its sea views with a menu of sumptuous seafood and pasta, while Hoyo 19 at Punta Espada is a great place to have a burger and a drink after a round of golf. For a more private experience, Eden Roc also offers dining on the beach or in villas, with the cooking done by a personal chef.

Eden Roc’s luxury knows no bounds and its picture-perfect views were nothing short of restorative. Whether you wish to fill your days with workshops and classes, playing rounds of golf, or with wellness treatments at the spa, eating delicious food and lounging by the pool with a good book, it’s a perfect getaway for families, couples and solo travellers alike.

Maryam was a guest of Eden Roc Cap Cana. From £700 per night, per room.

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