The Meliá Collection Brings Its Signature Luxury Experience to the Italian RivieraD' in Greater China

With this expansion, The Meliá Collection reinforces its presence in Italy’s luxury market, bringing its unique blend of heritage, design, and personalized service to one of Italy's most iconic coastal destinations.

Gabriel Escarrer, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Meliá Hotels International: “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 expanding our presence in Italy alongside valued partners such as SoGes Group. This hotel will invite guests to discover one of the most authentic and evocative corners of the Italian coast through experiences that are thoughtfully crafted, immersive, and deeply connected to the destination,”

Meliá Hotels International continues to strengthen the international growth of its luxury portfolio with the signing of a new The Meliá Collection hotel in Lerici, a timeless seaside destination on Italy’s enchanting Gulf of Poets. Scheduled to open within 24 months under a franchise agreement with SoGes Group, the property will mark the company’s first hotel in the Ligurian Riviera and become its 18th hotel in Italy.

Nestled between verdant hills and the shimmering waters of the Ligurian coast, Lerici offers a rare blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and understated sophistication. Long celebrated by poets, artists, and writers drawn to its inspiring landscapes, the town is defined by its medieval castle, elegant waterfront, picturesque marina, and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. Its privileged location, just moments from the iconic Cinque Terre and Porto Venere, makes it one of the most desirable gateways to the Italian Riviera.

The destination’s distinctive character aligns seamlessly with the essence of The Meliá Collection, a brand dedicated to connecting guests with extraordinary places through deeply authentic, curated, and meaningful experiences. More than a hotel, each property within the collection serves as a reflection of its surroundings, celebrating local culture, heritage, and sense of place.

The five-star hotel will feature between 80 and 90 elegantly appointed suites, a curated culinary offering, a 400-square-metre wellness and fitness sanctuary, dedicated meeting and event spaces, and an outdoor swimming pool. Conceived as a sophisticated retreat immersed in nature, the property has been designed to blend harmoniously into the surrounding landscape.

Its terraced architecture follows the natural contours of the hillside, unfolding through a series of landscaped gardens, panoramic terraces, and open-air spaces that maximize views across the Gulf of Poets. Green roofs, native vegetation, and a contemporary design language inspired by the local environment create a sense of effortless elegance and connection with nature.

Just a few kilometres from La Spezia, the region’s main transport hub, Lerici offers guests the best of both worlds: the tranquillity and authenticity of a refined coastal village, combined with easy access to some of Italy’s most celebrated seaside destinations. From the crystal-clear waters of Baia Blu and the historic charm of Lerici Castle to the scenic beauty of Cinque Terre and Porto Venere, the destination provides an inspiring backdrop for the immersive, place-led 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 expanding our presence in Italy alongside valued partners such as SoGes Group. This hotel will invite guests to discover one of the most authentic and evocative corners of the Italian coast through experiences that are thoughtfully crafted, immersive, and deeply connected to the destination,” said Gabriel Escarrer, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Meliá Hotels International.

With this signing, Meliá Hotels International further reinforces its commitment to Italy as a key strategic market, while continuing the expansion of The Meliá Collection, a growing portfolio of distinctive luxury hotels that redefine hospitality through authenticity, character, and an enduring connection to their surroundings.....- Continue reading (Members Only) - Unlock Advantages with a LHN Membership - Read more here

---

Small Tip To Landing Good Senior-Level Hotel Management Positions in 2026 & 2027

Many of our members have remained with us since the inception of our job lead service nine years ago. They continue to renew their memberships, staying on board even after securing new positions, and for good reason.

Daily, our editors dispatch bulletins detailing new job vacancies, projects, and industry shifts, including hotel launches, expansions, strategies, and market trends.

We recognize that numerous long-standing, senior-level members utilize these bulletins as conversation starters, reaching out to hotel chains and potential employers, sometimes with unsolicited applications and messages. LHN endorses such proactive engagement. It's an excellent, informal method to gain early interest from prominent hotel groups and upcoming projects, indicating your interest and broadening your opportunities for intriguing interviews or discussions about potential roles, particularly at the upper echelons of management.

Our editors also keep these proactive efforts in mind, shaping many bulletins to cover "new openings, new projects, and new market developments."

While membership spots for 2026 are limited, it's not too late to renew.- Read more here

The Team

LEADING HOTELIERS NETWORK / JOBLEAD-SERVICE

SIGN UP / RENEW