Historic Belle Île en Mer Citadel Set for Luxury Revival as Part of Accor’s Emblems Collection Expansion

(IN SHORT) Accor has announced that La Citadelle Vauban in Belle-Île-en-Mer will be transformed into the first Emblems Collection property in France, marking a major heritage redevelopment project. The historic citadel will undergo a comprehensive restoration to become a luxury destination featuring accommodations, dining, wellness facilities and cultural experiences, including a revived museum. Scheduled to open in 2027, the project aims to blend historical preservation with modern hospitality while strengthening Accor’s ultra-luxury portfolio and expanding the Emblems Collection globally.

(PRESS RELEASE) PARIS, 2026-Apr-1 — /Travel PR News/ — Accor has announced that La Citadelle Vauban in Belle-Île-en-Mer will become the first property in France under its ultra-luxury Emblems Collection, marking a new chapter for one of the country’s most iconic coastal heritage sites.

Overlooking the harbor of Le Palais, the citadel has a long and layered history dating back to the Middle Ages and later shaped by renowned military architect Vauban. Today, it stands as a protected historic monument and a defining landmark of the island, deeply embedded in both local identity and French cultural heritage.

The transformation project, first unveiled in 2024, is now entering a new phase with its integration into the Emblems Collection, a brand launched by Accor to curate unique, high-end properties rooted in history, culture and a strong sense of place. The initiative follows the brand’s debut with Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa in the UK.

Maud Bailly described the citadel as a site with deep historical resonance and a strong connection to its surroundings, noting that the project aims to create an immersive destination that blends heritage with refined, intimate luxury.

The redevelopment includes a comprehensive restoration programme that began in September 2025, undertaken in collaboration with architectural and heritage experts including Valode & Pistre Architectes and Pierre-Antoine Gatier, Chief Architect of Historic Monuments. Paris Society Consulting will oversee the development of the food and beverage concepts.

Once completed, the property is expected to offer 90 accommodations, including rooms, suites and apartments designed for both short stays and longer residential-style experiences. Guests will have access to two restaurants, a bar and a 2,000-square-metre wellness space, alongside meeting and event facilities. The project also includes the revival of the site’s museum, reinforcing its cultural dimension.

Scheduled to open in the second quarter of 2027, the future hotel aims to combine luxury hospitality with cultural immersion and environmental sensitivity, preserving the integrity of the site while introducing contemporary experiences.

The addition of La Citadelle Vauban represents a significant milestone for the Emblems Collection, which is focused on creating a portfolio of distinctive properties worldwide. The brand plans to expand to around 60 locations by 2032, with further openings already planned across Europe and North America.

About Emblems Collection

Emblems Collection is a curated portfolio of exceptional luxury hotels and resorts worldwide. From iconic heritage mansions to serene nature retreats and striking architectural signatures, each property embodies culture, creativity, and craftsmanship. With a refined sense of place and understated elegance, Emblems offers exclusive experiences for discerning travellers. Found in prime city locations or breathtaking natural settings, these hotels blend intimate, residential charm with world-class hospitality. The first Emblems property will debut in Europe in 2025, with a goal of 60 establishments globally by 2032. Emblems Collection is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group with 5,700 hotels in over 110 countries and a participating brand in ALL Accor, a loyalty program and booking platform providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.

emblemscollection.com ⎸all.com ⎸group.accor.com

Press Contacts

Audrey De Sousa
Senior Director Corporate Communication
Audrey.de-sousa@accor.com

SOURCE: ACCOR