Accor’s Handwritten Collection has reached a major global milestone with the opening of its 50th hotel, underscoring growing traveller demand for boutique-style stays that combine local character with the reach of an international hospitality group.
Just three years after launching in 2023, the collection now spans 20 countries, with more than 50 additional hotels under development, making it one of Accor’s fastest-growing collection brands for independent hotels.
Rather than standardised luxury, Handwritten Collection focuses on properties with distinctive personalities, preserving each hotel’s identity while connecting owners to Accor’s global distribution, loyalty and commercial platform.
A Fast-Growing Collection Built Around Individual Stories
Unlike traditional hotel brands that emphasise consistency, Handwritten Collection allows each property to retain its own identity.
Every hotel is selected for its unique story, architecture, design and hospitality, giving travellers experiences that reflect the destination rather than a standard brand template.
Jean-Yves Minet, Global Brand President, Midscale & Economy at Accor, said the milestone reflects changing traveller expectations.
“Handwritten Collection celebrates individuality in hospitality and the power of human connection. Reaching 50 hotels reflects a growing desire for stays that feel personal, sincere and shaped by real stories.”
The portfolio ranges from restored heritage residences and cultural landmarks to modern lifestyle hotels, creating a collection designed for travellers seeking authentic local experiences.
Expansion Pipeline Tops 100 Hotels
The momentum shows little sign of slowing.
Accor has confirmed that more than 50 additional Handwritten Collection hotels are currently under development, with numerous projects still under negotiation.
According to Camil Yazbeck, Global Chief Development Officer for Premium, Midscale & Economy at Accor, the brand continues attracting independent hotel owners looking to retain their property’s identity while benefiting from Accor’s worldwide sales, marketing, loyalty programme, technology and operational support.
The conversion-friendly model has proven particularly attractive as hotel owners increasingly seek flexible branding without sacrificing individuality.
Las Vegas Among the Biggest Future Additions
One of the headline projects in the pipeline is Treasure Island TI Las Vegas – Handwritten Collection, which will become the brand’s second property in the United States.
The iconic Las Vegas Strip hotel is also home to the long-running Mystère production by Cirque du Soleil, making it one of the collection’s highest-profile additions to date.
Recent Handwritten Collection Openings
Hotel Rathauspark Wien – Handwritten Collection (Austria)
Opened in January 2026, this historic Vienna hotel occupies a building once associated with renowned writer Stefan Zweig. Blending heritage architecture with contemporary comfort, it offers guests an intimate base close to Vienna’s cultural attractions.
Hotel Shanghai Hongqiao – Handwritten Collection (China)
Opening in February 2026, the 360-room property strengthens the brand’s presence in one of Shanghai’s busiest business and transport districts. The hotel combines modern guestrooms with extensive meeting facilities, wellness amenities and multiple dining venues.
Château de Mazan – Handwritten Collection (France)
Launched in March 2026, the Provençal château sits at the foot of Mont Ventoux and was once home to the Marquis de Sade. Featuring 31 guestrooms surrounded by historic gardens, the property blends French heritage with boutique hospitality.
New Hotels Joining Soon
The development pipeline continues to expand across Europe, Asia and resort destinations.
Hotel Aeschi Interlaken – Handwritten Collection
Scheduled to open in Summer 2026, this renovated Alpine retreat overlooking Lake Thun will feature 40 guestrooms, wellness facilities, restaurant and meeting spaces.
The Queen at Chester Hotel – Handwritten Collection
Opening in Summer 2026, the restored Victorian landmark marks Handwritten Collection’s debut in the UK. Following a £5 million refurbishment, the 218-room hotel will blend historic railway heritage with contemporary hospitality.
Palais am Schlossgarten Merseburg – Handwritten Collection
Expected in early 2027, this German property will offer 133 rooms alongside wellness facilities, restaurant, bar and extensive meeting space.
Satori Resort – Handwritten Collection
Planned for 2028, the Bali resort will feature 154 guestrooms and villas, further expanding the collection into one of Asia’s most sought-after leisure destinations.
Why It Matters
The rapid expansion of Handwritten Collection highlights a broader shift in hospitality, where travellers increasingly favour hotels with authentic local identity over standardised accommodation.
For hotel owners, the brand also represents a growing trend toward “soft branding“—maintaining a property’s individuality while accessing the commercial advantages of a global hotel network.
With 50 hotels already operating and another 50-plus in development, Handwritten Collection appears well positioned to become one of Accor’s fastest-growing lifestyle collections in the years ahead.
At a Glance
- 50 Handwritten Collection hotels now open worldwide
- Operating across 20 countries
- More than 50 additional hotels under development
- Brand launched by Accor in 2023
- Upcoming openings include Switzerland, the UK, Germany, Bali and Las Vegas
- Focus remains on preserving the unique identity of independent hotels
Related Coverage
Handwritten Collection by Accor opening in Nha Trang, Vietnam, in Q4
Accor Signing a New Handwritten Collection Hotel in Lijiang China
