Accor and Courbet forge partnership: Introducing Sofitel Legend in Prague

Friday, March 1, 2024

Accor, a renowned global hospitality group, and Courbet, chaired by Jean-François Ott, have announced a significant agreement today. Under this arrangement, Accor will assume management of The Mozart Prague hotel. After undergoing an extensive renovation, this esteemed hotel will become part of the prestigious Sofitel Legend brand, renowned for its historic luxury accommodations and authentic service. This decision reflects Courbet’s strategy of partnering with leaders in the global hotel industry to manage its portfolio, while also aligning with Accor’s global development strategy. This strategy encompasses deliberate expansion plans for Sofitel Legend alongside sustained growth initiatives for its luxury and lifestyle brands.

The Mozart Prague, belonging to the Courbet group and treasured as a cornerstone of the Ott family heritage since 1999, enjoys an iconic reputation.Nestled in Prague’s Old Town district, at the foot of the Charles Bridge with enchanting vistas of Prague Castle, the hotel boasts a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Over the years, it has welcomed esteemed guests such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Wagner, and more recently, Vaclav Havel.

Sofitel Legend: Exquisite Luxury Hotel Brand

With its deep roots in history and culture, The Mozart Prague hotel epitomizes the essence and heritage of Sofitel Legend. This distinguished collection of incomparable destinations is part of Sofitel, the sole luxury hotel brand of French origin to have expanded globally, advocating for hospitality that blends sincere, genuine, and dedicated luxury with a touch of French flair.

The inclusion of The Mozart Prague hotel into Sofitel Legend marks the addition of the seventh gem to the brand’s exclusive portfolio of luxury establishments. Sofitel Legend properties are renowned for their timeless sophistication, bearing witness to historical moments that have shaped unique atmospheres and narratives. From the creation of Agatha Christie’s masterpiece “Death on the Nile” to the honeymoon of Charlie Chaplin and Paulette Godard, and even the inception of James Bond, The Mozart Prague joins this distinguished network to share the story of where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart penned six German dances.

The hotel will become the second Sofitel Legend in Europe, joining the esteemed Sofitel Legend The Grand in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Globally, the brand’s portfolio includes Sofitel Legend Old Cataract in Aswan, Egypt; Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo in Panama City, Panama; Sofitel Legend Santa Clara in Cartagena, Colombia; Sofitel Legend The Metropole in Hanoi, Vietnam; and Sofitel Legend People’s Grand in Xi’an, China.

The hotel promises to offer a fresh perspective of Prague: a city of elegance, steeped in its rich history and culture.

Official Opening Scheduled for 2027

The forthcoming years will witness an ambitious renovation endeavor at The Mozart Prague, led by the esteemed Prague architect, Ivo Nahalka, aimed at meeting the exacting standards of the Sofitel Legend brand. Adding to the hotel’s allure will be a new restaurant featuring a globally renowned brand. Throughout this revitalization journey, utmost care and precision will be dedicated to preserving the majestic exteriors of this famed establishment, honoring its rich history and deep connection to Prague’s heritage.

During the renovation phase, The Mozart Prague will be managed by Accor under a white label arrangement, retaining its current signage. Upon the completion of the renovation project, slated for 2027, the hotel will emerge anew as the illustrious Sofitel Legend The Mozart Prague.

Two Kindred Companies with Shared Values

The Accor group and Sofitel Legend stand out as the natural choices for the management of The Mozart Prague hotel. Specifically, the Sofitel Legend brand perfectly resonates with the authenticity and refinement inherent to the location, boasting the expertise and global reputation required to safeguard the original essence of this remarkable edifice.

Jean-François Ott, President of Courbet, explains: “Prague is my heart’s city. I bought my first building there in 1990 with all my savings. I settled there, built my life, and started a family. I love this city, respect it, and cherish it. I have owned The Mozart Prague for 25 years, and it was important for me to choose the best partner to entrust the management of this hotel. Accor fought for it and genuinely wanted it. Our common values of seeking authenticity, preserving history, and promoting local culture confirmed our desire to move forward with the Sofitel Legend brand.”

Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery, and Emblems adds: “The Mozart Prague perfectly complements our mosaic of carefully selected unique destinations and allows us to add a hotel in this European city with an incredibly rich architectural and artistic heritage. More than just hotels, these living legends resonate with whispered secrets, authentic encounters, and extraordinary stories that are written every day. We will be able to offer our clientele committed luxury, with a hotel rooted in its local culture that celebrates its destination.”

Courbet received counsel from Wingate in Paris and J&T Bank in Prague, the esteemed banking institution with historical ties to The Mozart Prague.

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