Marriott International, Inc. has entered into an agreement with Propriétés & Co to develop a luxury resort and an exclusive residential project under 'The Luxury Collection' brand in Marseillan. The picturesque port town in Languedoc, Southern France, will be the setting for this project on an approximately six-hectare plot directly on the Étang de Thau lagoon. The 'Port Marseillan, a Luxury Collection Resort' is slated to open in 2029.
The venture includes a hotel with 72 rooms and 189 branded residences. This concept is designed to offer both guests and owners a premium resort experience. The culinary offering will encompass nine gastronomic concepts, from an oyster and sashimi bar and a signature restaurant to a French café and a wine bar with a terrace.
The residences are designed with diverse configurations: waterfront villas, pool villas, garden suites, apartments, and penthouses. Each unit is conceived to blend the local identity of the destination with Mediterranean lifestyle and modern luxury. Owners will gain access to all the resort's services and facilities.
Strategic Expansion in an Attractive Location
Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer Europe, Middle East & Africa at Marriott International, commented on the project's significance: “With the signing of Port Marseillan, we are reaching an important milestone in expanding our luxury portfolio in Europe's most sought-after resort destinations.” He emphasised that this not only represents Marriott International's first branded residences in France but also strengthens its presence in one of the country's most attractive leisure destinations. The combination of Marseillan's natural beauty, rich culture, and Mediterranean way of life perfectly aligns with 'The Luxury Collection' philosophy, which offers authentic insights into its destinations.
Miguel Espada, President of Propriétés & Co, highlighted his family's personal connection to the region. The aim was to develop a resort that focuses on the historical, characteristic, and gourmet cultural features of the destination, thereby creating a resort and living experience deeply connected to the region's identity.
Architecture and Design
The resort will be built on an elevated position, offering expansive views over the Étang de Thau lagoon to Sète, Mont Saint-Clair, and the Mediterranean Sea. The architecture is handled by Slowlife Architects, with interior design in collaboration with designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán. The architectural concept is inspired by traditional winemaker's houses and integrates regional elements such as natural stone facades, wooden shutters, wrought-iron details, and warm terracotta tones. The interiors will be characterised by high-quality materials and craftsmanship. The region boasts approximately 300 days of sunshine per year, long sandy beaches, over 50 kilometres of cycle paths, nearby marinas, and 8,000 hectares of protected natural landscapes.
As a new luxury resort, the project will expand 'The Luxury Collection' portfolio in France to four properties. It joins existing properties such as Prince de Galles in Paris and Hôtel de Berri Champs-Élysées in Paris, as well as Hôtel du Couvent in Nice. This addition underscores Marriott International's commitment to continuously expanding its luxury portfolio in France.
