R Collection Hotels, the Italian luxury group owned by the Rocchi family, has announced significant growth plans for 2026–27, marking a major step in its continued expansion across Italy’s most sought-after destinations.
The Group will make its debut in the city of Como with two new landmark properties, reinforcing its position as one of Italy’s leading independent luxury hotel brands.
The expansion will see R Collection resume management of two centrally located Lake Como properties – the Palace Hotel and Hotel Excelsior Barchetta – currently owned by R Collection and operated by the Villa d’Este Group. Both hotels are set to undergo extensive renovations ahead of their scheduled reopening in 2027, further elevating the brand’s presence on the international stage.
The Palace Hotel will be upgraded from four to five stars following a comprehensive redevelopment programme to align with the Group’s signature blend of contemporary design, local heritage, and refined Italian hospitality, while the full refurbishment programme for the Hotel Excelsior Barchetta (four stars) will be finalised in the coming months. Together, these openings represent a strategic milestone for R Collection, expanding its portfolio in one of Europe’s most dynamic luxury travel destinations.
To support this next phase of growth, Riccardo Bortolotti has been appointed Area General Manager, Como, overseeing both new properties. Bortolotti was previously General Manager of the Grand Hotel Bristol Spa Resort, Rapallo, where he played a key role in redefining the hotel’s identity and securing its membership in the Virtuoso luxury travel network in 2025.
Riccardo Bortolotti, Area General Manager, Como & Ivan Parodi, General Manager, Grand Hotel Bristol – R Collection
Leadership continuity at the Rapallo property will be ensured by Ivan Parodi, who steps into the role of General Manager after serving as Hotel Manager since 2023. Parodi will continue to strengthen the Grand Hotel Bristol’s reputation as a destination for experiential luxury, with a renewed focus on art, music, and culinary innovation.
“These developments mark an exciting new chapter for R Collection Hotels,” said Ludovica Rocchi, R Collection Owner and Brand Director. “Our entry into the Como market and the appointment of two highly accomplished managers demonstrate our commitment to sustainable growth, internal talent development, and the consistent delivery of exceptional Italian hospitality.”
The announcement underscores R Collection Hotels’ long-term investment strategy, centred on expanding its portfolio of owned and operated properties in Italy’s most iconic destinations — from Lake Como and the Portofino Coast to Mont Blanc and Milan.