Accor strengthens its presence in Italy with six new luxury hotels

Accor is betting on Italy and announces the forthcoming opening of six high-end hotels under the group's brands including: Raffles, Sofitel and Emblems Collection. The Raffles Lake Como will open in 2027, a structure that will rise along one of the most exclusive areas of the lake, after a complete renovation, and will offer all the iconic experiences of the brand - from the Library to the Writers' Bar, from the Long Bar to the Patisserie - combined with the charm of the most famous lake in the world. It will be the first Raffles hotel in Italy and among its exclusivities it will have a private beach bar accessible through a historic tunnel, innovative concept restaurants, a strong focus on sustainability and a food and wine itinerary that will highlight local excellence. Also in 2027, Sofitel Genova Marina will be opened, the brand's second Italian address after Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese. It will be a five-star hotel, will rise on the city waterfront, and will have the signature of the archistar Renzo Piano. The aim is to make it the city's first international luxury hotel.

Emblems Collection will instead debut in Italy in 2026 with four new properties, conceived to enhance local identity through design, authenticity and storytelling. The Hotel Bellevue in Cortina d'Ampezzo will offer 80 rooms nestled in the Dolomites, a landmark destination for both the ski season and summer. Palazzo Sozzini Malavolti in Siena will offer a historic residence with 19th-century frescoes, secret gardens and a spa dedicated to Tuscan craftsmanship. Relais San Clemente in Umbria, a former Benedictine convent set in 40 hectares of parkland, will become an exclusive retreat with private villas and a consecrated chapel. Finally, Masseria Furnirussi in Apulia will offer 60 suites, many with private pools, set in the largest fig orchard in Europe, reinterpreting Salento architecture in a contemporary key. "Italy is a priority market for Accor's luxury development in Southern Europe. The potential is significant in both established and emerging destinations, where there is a growing demand for authentic, high-profile experiences," emphasises Ettore Cavallino, senior development director luxury brands, Europe of Accor. "With new openings in areas of great appeal such as Puglia and Cortina d'Ampezzo, the group is strengthening its presence in places where global travellers seek unique stays. Thanks to the personalised approach of our luxury and collection brands, we are able to enhance the individuality of independent properties, while contributing to the long-term growth of Italian hospitality"..

Accor currently has over 75 properties in Italy and is the second largest hotel group in Italy, with a presence covering all categories from ultra-luxury to economy. The ongoing expansion reflects the Group's ability to offer an ecosystem of integrated experiences: from hotels to trains, from private residences to yachts, from signature restaurants to co-working, and from wellness clubs, spas, resorts and all-inclusives. "Southern Europe, and Italy in particular, is a strategic area for the long-term development of our luxury brands," explains Paul Rosenberg, Regional vice president luxury brands for France, Southern Europe and North Africa. Our growth is driven by respect for the local culture, a sustainable approach and solid collaboration with trusted partners. Relationships with hotel owners are a fundamental pillar of our strategy: together we want to consolidate Accor's presence in key destinations such as Rome, Milan and Sicily, contributing to an evolution of hospitality that is current, responsible and in line with the needs of today's travellers".

Among the latest activities in the premium segment of the market is the Orient Express brand with Orient Express La Minerva, the brand's first hotel in the world, which has brought a 17th century palace in Piazza della Minerva, restored by architect-artist Hugo Toro, back to life. In 2026, it will be the turn of Venice, with the opening of Orient Express Palazzo Donà Giovannelli, a 15th-century residence that has been carefully restored by Aline Asmar d'Amman. This year saw the debut of La Dolce Vita Orient Express, the new luxury train offering slow travel itineraries intertwining art, landscapes and haute cuisine with three Michelin stars, curated by chef Heinz Beck. With the opening of the Palazzo Donà Giovannelli, passengers will be able to arrive directly at Venice Santa Lucia Station and reach the hotel with a short walk or a gondola transfer. Recent months have also seen the opening of The Hoxton Florence and the Hotel Giacomo Morra Alba - Handwritten Collection, while the summer saw the debut of the Mövenpick Hotel Bari, in the heart of the Murat district. Derived from the restoration of the historic Palace Hotel, the new Mövenpick features a sustainable and sophisticated design, 186 elegant rooms, a private SPA, fitness room and twelve meeting rooms for up to 300 people. The gastronomic offer is entrusted to the Connubio Bistrot, which serves contemporary cuisine inspired by Apulian traditions, with a curated selection of wines and cocktails.