Accor, a global leader in hospitality, is expanding its Handwritten Collection—a portfolio of unique, independent hotels—into Europe, with Greece marking a significant milestone. Rocca a Mare Heraklion, a boutique hotel in Crete, has become the first Greek property to join this exclusive collection, blending modern luxury with authentic Cretan charm.
Launched in 2023, the Handwritten Collection redefines hospitality by allowing independent hotels to join Accor’s network while preserving their distinct character and local identity. Unlike standardized hotel brands, these properties emphasize personalized guest experiences, reflecting the vision of their owners and the essence of their destinations.
Rocca a Mare Heraklion: A Cretan Gem
Located on Heraklion’s beachfront, Rocca a Mare Heraklion offers 36 rooms with stunning views of the Cretan Sea and the historic Venetian Koules fortress. The hotel combines contemporary design, advanced technology, and wellness facilities, creating a serene yet luxurious atmosphere. Its poolside relaxation areas and modern architecture highlight a philosophy of “living hospitality,” where guests are treated as friends in a space brimming with personality.
The inclusion of Rocca a Mare in the Handwritten Collection is a game-changer for Greek tourism. It allows independent hotels to gain global visibility through Accor’s robust network and loyalty program, ALL – Accor Live Limitless, while retaining their unique identity. This milestone could pave the way for more Greek boutique hotels to join the collection, boosting their international presence.
European Expansion with a Focus on Authenticity
The Handwritten Collection, already boasting over 20 properties in destinations like Krakow, Singapore, San Francisco, and Sydney, is set for significant growth in Europe in 2025. New additions include:
- Netherlands: Grand Canal Boutique Hotel in Amsterdam, alongside properties in Rotterdam and Maastricht.
- France: Hotel de l’Abbaye du Tronchet, a former monastery turned luxury retreat between Rennes and Saint-Malo, and Hotel Kasano Calvi in Corsica, featuring modern art-inspired decor.
- Italy: Hotel Giacomo Morra Alba in Piedmont, celebrating the region’s wine and white truffle heritage.
- Switzerland: Hotel Meierhof in Davos, the collection’s first Swiss property.
- Hungary: Hotel Lycium in Debrecen, part of a cultural and conference complex, joining in summer 2025.
A Strategic Vision for Independent Hotels
Accor’s Handwritten Collection taps into the growing demand for authentic, experiential travel. By offering independent hotel owners access to a global platform without sacrificing their individuality, the collection strengthens their commercial reach. For Greece, with its abundance of boutique hotels rich in character, this model offers a pathway to international recognition and sustainable growth.
Rocca a Mare Heraklion’s inclusion signals the start of a new chapter for Greek hospitality, blending local authenticity with global appeal. As Accor continues to expand the Handwritten Collection, more independent hotels may follow, redefining the guest experience across Europe and beyond.
