Meliá Hotels International signs its first hotel in Lerici, on the Italian Riviera
Meliá Hotels International continues to strengthen its international luxury portfolio with the signing of a new The Meliá Collection hotel in Lerici, an emblematic destination in the Gulf of Poets, on the Ligurian Riviera. The property will open within 24 months under a franchise agreement signed with SoGes Group.
The project marks the Spanish group’s first presence on the Ligurian Riviera and will become its 18th hotel in Italy, confirming Meliá’s renewed interest in the Italian market following several recent signings in other strategic markets.
Lerici, a destination with strong heritage character
Nestled between verdant hills and the clear waters of the Ligurian coast, Lerici combines natural beauty, cultural heritage and understated sophistication. Long favoured by poets, artists and writers, the town is distinguished by its medieval castle, elegant seafront, picturesque harbour and Mediterranean way of life.
Its privileged position, just a few kilometres from the Cinque Terre and Porto Venere, makes it one of the most sought-after gateways to the Italian Riviera. The destination’s distinctive character aligns with the DNA of The Meliá Collection, a brand dedicated to authentic experiences rooted in their surroundings.
Architecture designed to embrace the landscape
The five-star hotel will offer between 80 and 90 rooms and suites, a carefully curated culinary offering, a 400 sqm wellness and fitness area, meeting and events spaces, and an outdoor pool. Conceived as a retreat immersed in nature, the property has been designed to blend harmoniously into the surrounding terrain.
Its terraced architecture follows the natural contours of the hillside, unfolding across landscaped gardens, panoramic terraces and open spaces with views over the Gulf of Poets. Green roofs, local vegetation and a contemporary architectural language inspired by the environment reinforce this pursuit of understated elegance and connection to the site.
Easy access from La Spezia
Located just a few kilometres from La Spezia, the region’s main transport hub, Lerici offers both the tranquillity of an unspoilt coastal village and quick access to some of Italy’s most popular seaside destinations. From the crystal-clear waters of Baia Blu to Lerici Castle, and on to the Cinque Terre and Porto Venere, the setting provides an ideal backdrop for the immersive hospitality that defines The Meliá Collection.
“The Meliá Collection was created to celebrate the individuality of extraordinary destinations, and Lerici embodies that vision perfectly. We are delighted to add this exceptional property to our portfolio and to continue our development in Italy alongside trusted partners such as SoGes Group. This hotel will invite travellers to discover one of the most authentic and evocative corners of the Italian coast, through experiences that are thoughtful, immersive and deeply connected to the destination,” said Gabriel Escarrer, Executive Chairman and CEO of Meliá Hotels International.
Italy, a strategic market for Meliá
This signing forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen Meliá’s presence in Italy, a market the group regards as a priority. It follows several recent announcements from the group in comparable segments, including in Spain with a new The Meliá Collection property on the Costa del Sol, and in Argentine Patagonia with the signing of a hotel in Bariloche.
🔗 Also on LTH Hotel Gabrielli Venezia reopens under the Starhotels Collezione brand
With this signing, Meliá Hotels International confirms its ambition to grow The Meliá Collection, a expanding portfolio of distinctive luxury hotels that redefine hospitality through authenticity, character and a lasting connection to their surroundings.
At a Glance
Meliá Hotels International x SoGes Group – Lerici, Italy
Location: Lerici, Ligurian Riviera, Italy (Gulf of Poets)
Agreement: Franchise agreement with SoGes Group
Room count: 80-90 rooms and suites
Facilities: 400 sqm wellness & fitness area, meeting spaces, outdoor pool
Milestone: First Meliá hotel on the Ligurian Riviera, 18th hotel in Italy
Opening: Scheduled within 24 months
