[New] Rezydent MGallery

Sopot

Following a complete refurbishment, Sopot’s Rezydent hotel reopens as part of Accor’s boutique MGallery collection.

Much like the British seaside towns of Brighton and Eastbourne that find city-dwellers flocking to their beaches every summer, Sopot is where the Polish go to escape the hustle and bustle of urban living. Positioned between cities of Gdańsk and Gdynia on the southern coast of the Baltic Sea, the seaside resort is known for its long sandy beaches and leisurly atmosphere, as well as the longest wooden pier in Europe, earning it the title of Poland’s Riviera.

Plenty of hotels have set up shop both along the seafront and inland over the years in response to regular tourist arrivals, but the newest jewel in the coastal town’s crown is Rezydent MGallery. Located on the Bohaterów Monte Cassino promenade, the hotel occupies a site steeped in local history. Since the end of the 19th century, the spot has fulfilled various different purposes, from a marketplace and restaurant to a distillery, bakery and even a cigarette shop, though it spent the longest stint – over 100 years – as the infamous Dworcowy Hotel, until the building was demolished in 2001 and Hotel Rezydent was built in its place.

The replacement Art Nouveau structure is in keeping with the characteristic architecture of the surrounding townhouses, with subtle references to the flora and fauna of the Baltic Sea, making it one of the most recognisable properties in the town. Since then, the property was operated independently before joining Accor as part of its Eastern European expansion plans. Following a complete refurbishment, carried out by Warsaw-based studio

Bistro-style eatery Grino is characterised by composite columns, grand arches and emerald floor-length drapery

Tremend during the Covid-19-induced national lockdown, the hotel is now part of the boutique MGallery collection, marking the brand’s third venture in Poland.

The new design scheme is a celebration of the traditional architectural features in recognition of the site’s history, whilst also introducing contemporary elements that symbolise the hotel’s future. Guests are now welcomed into the lobby by a statement Old Fables chandelier suspended above the front door, comprising handblown glass spheres of various sizes and colours that are reminiscent of sparkling soap bubbles. This is one of several statement glass pieces by Sopot-based studio Barańska Design displayed throughout the property, ranging from sculptures and paintings to light installations. The lobby in particular draws inspiration from the hotel’s seaside location, with a golden amorphous reception desk that mimics the rippled patterns left in the sand as the tide goes out.

To the right, double doors open into signature restaurant Grino, complete with composite columns, grand archways and doors inlaid with panels of etched glass, contrasted by curvaceous boucle bucket chairs and emerald green brick tiling. Spread across the ground floor, the venue is divided into two dining areas; the former is more informal with a neutral palette of creams, beiges and browns, while the latter occupies a grand atrium with emerald floor-length drapery and dried floral arrangements suspended from the glazed roof.

The bistro-style eatery takes an innovative gastronomic approach to modern Polish cuisine, offering regional delights from local suppliers, cooked and served on hot lava stones. Head Chef Adam Ramutkowski’s signature dish of homemade cod and salmon sausages, which is a contemporary interpretation of a classic dish rooted in the history of Sopot fishermen, is complemented by the barl’s signature Baltic beach-inspired Amber Dream cocktail made using amber vodka.

Plush carpet bearing a pattern derived from a photograph of Sopot pier lines the corridors leading up to the 63 guestrooms, several of which overlook the Neo-Gothic landmark, St George’s Church. Inside, the emerald motif continues through to the ceilings and select lounge furniture, while headboards resemble sand blown by the Baltic Sea, and floor lamps are inspired by amber, the native gemstone of Poland. Bathrooms channel a similar air of modern luxury with matte black accents, patterned wallcoverings and terrazzo floors accompanied by L’Occitane amenities.

Built upon the waters of the St Adalbert’s Spring, Sopot has also been a popular spa destination since the town’s first sanitorium opened in the 18th century. So what would be a spa town hotel without its own dedicated spa and wellness facilities? Hidden down a spiral staircase in the subterranean levels is the intimate Prana Spa, where guests can take advantage of beauty and relaxation treatments, three massage rooms and a dry sauna. The guest experience doesn’t end at the perimeter of the hotel; in fact, as a member of the MGallery collection, the property offers a range of unique Memorable Moments, including a four-hour yacht trip on the Baltic Sea, on which visitors can admire the captivating coastal landscape while tucking into a champagne picnic. There are also opportunities to partake in a jewellery workshop, during which the history of Baltic gold is explored by a master amber craftsman, or to book guided tours of the neighbouring cities.

“Rezydent Sopot’s boutique character and locally inspired architecture, as well as its elegance and intimate interiors, make the hotel a perfect fit for the sophisticated style of the MGallery brand,” says General Manager Joanna Wolny. “It is a property for passionate guests expecting unique experiences related to history, architecture, art and travel. Thanks to its tasteful interiors, dedicated culinary offer and leisure facilities, the hotel slots seamlessly into the rich and beautiful tradition of the city it calls home.”

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Owner: Rezydent Operator: Accor Interior Design: Tremend www.accor.com