In Brief: Sofitel is set to establish a new benchmark in Rio de Janeiro’s hospitality scene with the opening of its flagship Ipanema hotel, slated for completion by the close of 2026.
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Sofitel Rio de Janeiro Ipanema – Image Credit Accor
Sofitel has announced the transformation of Sofitel Rio de Janeiro Ipanema into its first flagship hotel in Brazil, with an opening scheduled for the end of 2026.
Sofitel Rio de Janeiro Ipanema is set to reopen at the end of 2026 as the brand’s first flagship hotel in Brazil, located on Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro. The transformed property will feature 172 rooms and suites.
The project is being designed by architect Patricia Anastassiadis, with a contemporary approach to design and architecture. Interiors will feature Brazilian design and contemporary art, including furniture by Oscar Niemeyer, Sergio Rodrigues, Zanini de Zanine, and Hugo França, as well as works by Artur Lescher, Heloisa Crocco, Teodoro Dias, and Brazilian photography. Natural textures and Brazilian ceramics will be integrated throughout the hotel.
The building will be the tallest in the area, offering 360-degree views of the city and ocean, including Ipanema Beach, the sunset, and the Dois Irmãos hills. The first three floors will have glass facades and two entrances, one on Avenida Vieira Souto and another on Rua Maria Quitéria. The ground floor will include a bar with a balcony and direct street access.
Planned facilities include a spa focused on wellness and longevity, a fitness center, and a rooftop infinity pool with a solarium and bar. Club Millésime, an executive lounge for Club Millésime room guests and members of Accor’s highest loyalty tiers, will be located on the 21st floor and will offer dedicated butler service.
The third floor will be dedicated to meetings and events, following the Meeting Residence concept, with spaces equipped with technology for corporate gatherings.
Dining options will include a signature restaurant led by a Michelin-starred chef on the 22nd floor, a rooftop bar, an all-day dining restaurant, and a beachfront restaurant on the ground floor. A Beach Club will also be part of the property.
