The Riu Palace Punta Cana has all the ingredients of the ideal luxury break, throwing a team of huge pools, a lively atmosphere and a white-sand beach into the mix.

You’re on to a winner when it comes to location with this hotel. It perches on the edge of a stretch of talc-soft sand that’s backed by towering palms. You get a two-for-one deal, too, as you’ve also got the run of the sister hotel – Riu Bambu.

There are three pools, including a bigger pool for the kids, along with a coffee shop which serves patisseries and ice-cream.

Rooms
Junior suites all include a balcony or terrace, free Wi-Fi and air-con. All rooms at this RIU Palace also come with an in-room drinks optic – meaning you’ll have your very own branded premium spirits on tap in your room. The drinks can vary, but usually include brands such as Smirnoff, Bacardi and Jose Cuervo.

Facilities
A stay at this hotel includes use of some facilities at the Riu Resort as a whole, so the list of things to do is long. There’s a gym, tennis courts, full activities time-table, windsurfing, kayaking and snorkelling just for starters. And the adults-only pool has a swim-up bar. In the evening, there’s a choice of bars and Riu’s live shows are on nightly. Food-wise, there’s the main buffet plus a steakhouse, fusion restaurant, Italian place, Japanese eatery and a Spanish restaurant. And to complete the list, a spa offering a gym, relax pool and steam bath.

Pools
A trio of swimming spots plus a kids’ pool make up the pool scene. One of them’s an adults-only number with a swim-up bar and in-water loungers.

Food & Drink
The elegant buffet restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating. Breakfast might start with a Buck’s Fizz, while evening meals keep up the high standard with scallops, smoked salmon and rib-eye steaks. There are exchange privileges with the Riu Bambu only.

There are five à la carte restaurants, including an Italian, Spanish and steakhouse. The Japanese place serves up fantastic sushi appetisers, while the fusion restaurant excels at Michelin-style presentation. The Capucchino coffee shop which serves a range of cakes and pastries and ice-cream has been added to the roster, too.

Entertainment
Each evening, a live band plays at the Plaza – the resort’s courtyard – before the main show. There’s something different to watch each night – think dance shows and tribute acts.
Party animals can join in with themed adults-only parties a few times a week – expect DJs, foam cannons and free-flowing drinks. Or, head to Pacha nightclub within the resort.

Sports & Activities
One of the pools puts on aqua aerobics, and you can have an introductory scuba diving lesson here, too. There are also group activities in the RiuFit area, seven times a week.
Guests have access to three tennis courts, and there are things like dance lessons and aquagym. Read More

Health & Beauty
The spa* offers a gym, sauna, and a range of treatments including facials*, massages*, manicures*, and waxing*.