IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, is expanding its presence in one of its primary markets of France, with four new hotel signings and an exciting opening. Situated on France’s charismatic coastline, the five-strong collection of new properties bring three of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ brands to the region for the first time, including Staybridge Suites, Holiday Inn Express, Crowne Plaza and Hotel Indigo.
Expansion is a key strategic growth driver for IHG, and the new signings in Cannes, Cagnes-sur-Mer, Arachon-La Teste and Marseilles further cement the company’s presence in continental Europe across multiple brand collections including; Essentials, Premium, Suites and Luxury & Lifestyle.
The first of the new additions recently opened on the shores of Arcachon Bay, a charming inlet on France’s South West coast. Bringing the reliable comfort of Holiday Inn Express to the region, Holiday Inn Express Arcachon- La Teste provides the perfect base from which to uncover the many delights of this revered region. Many of the area’s beloved sites are located within 15-minutes of the hotel, including the Dune of Pilat, sunsoaked resort of Pyla-sur-Mer and a bounty of beaches.
The new signings are expected to open from October 2021 onwards, with Hotel Indigo Cagnes-sur-Mer, the first of the set scheduled to welcome guests. Showcasing Hotel Indigo’s stylish yet approachable aesthetic, the new property takes inspiration from the local neighbourhood. Comprising 87 sumptuously designed bedrooms, seven of which are elegant suites, this distinctly individual hotel brings an inviting, lively character to the seaside town of Cagnes-sur-Mer. Guests can explore the gentle shores of the Mediterranean, historic town centre and many delights of the Riviera’s elegant cuisine while enjoying the design-led comfort of Hotel Indigo Cagnes-sur-Mer.
Scheduled to open in spring 2022, Holiday Inn Express Ajaccio introduces the brand to the French island of Corsica. Comprising 71 rooms, the new hotel is designed with the modern business traveller in mind but will also appeal to leisure guests. Providing contemporary workspaces, complimentary Wi-Fi and breakfast as standard, Holiday Inn Express Ajaccio meets the needs of those travelling for work, while seeking to enjoy Corsica’s sparkling coastline. The hotel is located within easy reach of the seafront and the island’s glamourous harbour is just 2.6km from the hotel, providing links to the south of France and Sardinia.
Those seeking a longer stay can enjoy an enhanced home-away-from-home experience when Staybridge Suites Cannes Centre opens in mid-2022. With amenities including a fully equipped kitchen in every suite, a dedicated outdoor space, complimentary hot breakfast daily with signature offerings, Staybridge Suites combine the convenience of a hotel with the ambience of a private apartment. The hotel’s many features include a fitness centre, swimming pool and meeting room. The opening will be the brand’s debut in France and is located a short, five-minute walk from Cannes iconic palais des festivals and the croisette.
IHG Hotels & Resorts will also expand Crowne Plaza’s presence in Southern France with the opening of Crowne Plaza Marseille Le Dôme. Expected to open in 2022, the hotel will provide a premium offering in one of Europe’s most picturesque port cities. Synonymous with elegance and timeless appeal, Marseille is the ideal setting for Crowne Plaza’s newest opening on France’s sparkling coastline. Offering an on-site restaurant, 147-rooms and leisure facilities, the new hotel is sure to become one of the most sought-after addresses on the continent. The hotel will join the dual-branded Crowne Plaza Nice-Grand Arenas and Holiday Inn Express Nice – Grand Arenas, which opened in June 2021.
(Mrs) Willemijn Geels, Vice President Development Europe at IHG Hotels & Resorts, commented:
“The recent wave of new signings and openings in France reflects the cautious optimism we at IHG Hotels & Resorts have for Europe’s recovery. France is a crucial market for us and the focus on its beautiful coastal region is an intentional step to grow our brands out of the cities and hubs, to regional settings where we can provide best-in-class properties for our guests.
Together with our owners and developers, we are continually seeking to mindfully expand our brands and invite more guests to experience the world with IHG Hotels & Resorts. We look forward to welcoming our IHG Reward members, repeat guests and new visitors to our new properties in France when they open throughout 2022.”
