InterContinental Hotels Group expands French Portfolio with Hotel in Marseilles

InterContinental Hotels Group has signed an agreement with one of the leading European investment funds and real estate developers, AXA REIM, to open the first InterContinental hotel in Marseilles, France.

The hotel will open in early 2011 after an extensive renovation and restoration. This will be the third property for the InterContinental brand in France adding to the iconic hotels - the InterContinental Paris Le Grand Hôtel and the InterContinental Carlton Cannes.

The InterContinental Marseilles will be situated in the heart of the historical centre with easy access to the historic Old Port and marina with its many restaurants and bars. It will be located on the site of the original Hôtel-Dieu, a building dating back to the 18th Century, listed in Marseilles Inventory of Additional National Heritage Sites and an integral part of the city's rich history and heritage.

Positioned as the gateway to the world-renowned region of Provence and the magical Mediterranean, the InterContinental Marseilles will feature 191 rooms, spa and fitness centre, two restaurants, fully-equipped conference space and a Club InterContinental Lounge. The building will also include 70 - 80 residential apartments.

Jennifer Fox, Chief Operating Officer, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Europe, said, "This is an iconic, brand defining project for us; France is an extremely important destination for InterContinental Hotels & Resorts and we are absolutely delighted we have managed to secure such a great location to further our brand presence in the country. This is an opportunity that rarely emerges and we are absolutely committed to creating and establishing a fabulous, high-end urban resort."

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