(TAN): Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Panama, uniquely located on a serene waterfront enclave overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the historic Casco Viejo district, will make its grand debut on January 19, 2023, Accor said in a news release.
Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo presides with a distinctive exterior reminiscent of a bygone era and gracefully merges Panamanian culture with French savoir-faire, the statement said. The building’s original French colonial architecture is conveyed in the interior design of the property with the dramatic décor of the lobby, which immediately envelopes guests and celebrates the country’s most remarkable engineering accomplishment and architectural wonder – the Panama Canal – with nautical design elements including custom-made sculptures, striking artwork, historic photographs on display, and maritime navigational instruments.
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Beyond the lobby, the French heritage of the building is creatively woven throughout a variety of design details including the ballroom’s marble checkerboard floors, wrought iron balcony and brass touches, and contrasted by contemporary Panamanian design elements, including local artwork, handmade encaustic tiles, and colourful furnishings inspired by the diverse flora and fauna found throughout the country.
“Sofitel Legend is more than a luxury hotel brand,” said Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel. “It represents a way of living that encapsulates the absolute best in art, culture, history and the elegance of the destination itself. Situated in Panama City’s historic district, Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo will provide a space where guests can immerse themselves in local culture whilst indulging in modern luxuries particular to Sofitel Legend. We are thrilled to continue to offer discerning travellers the finest in French luxury hospitality, in a destination that will undoubtedly inspire meaningful experiences.”
Built on the storied site of the former Club Union – the most exclusive and refined social club to exist in Panama City in the 20th century, which hosted the likes of Albert Einstein, Queen Elizabeth II and Helen Keller – Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo has been designed to honour its glamorous legacy while embracing modern times in Panama’s most desirable district. Steps from the Teatro Nacional, La Catedral del Oro, the Panama Canal and MUMO Museum, the stunning new address embodies Panamanian and French heritage in a culturally rich destination, perfectly echoing Sofitel Legend’s spirit.
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“Casco Viejo has long been celebrated for its history, heritage and rich culture,” expressed David Kianni, General Manager of Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Panama. “It is home to some of Panama City’s most architecturally iconic landmarks, including the revered Club Union of Panama building, which now enters a new chapter as it becomes the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo. It’s incredibly exciting to have been part of such a grand project, bringing to life this treasured property through the meticulous lens of the Sofitel Legend brand.” Kianni continues, “Alongside my incredible team, we look forward to welcoming discerning guests from all over the globe and providing them with impeccable service, memorable experiences, and world-class gastronomy that will make them discover the true meaning of French joie de vivre and fall in love with Panama.”
Surrounding a central and impressive terrace and oceanfront pool, Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo’s 159 generously sized rooms, including 35 striking suites with incredible views, combine timeless magnetism with contemporary grandeur. The beautiful accommodations double as spacious sanctuaries to relax and rest in after a long day of exploring the city. Many of the rooms offer balconies with enviable seascapes where morning coffees and sunset cocktails can be enjoyed as daily rituals.
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The property boasts five food and beverage outlets, which delight guests with seasonally inspired cuisine, sure to suit a variety of cravings and occasions. Caleta is a chic Mediterranean Brasserie helmed by acclaimed Executive Chef Lorenzo Di Gravio starring the area’s freshest seafood and boldest flavors – from marinated sea bass in tomato and pepper water to grilled octopus with rosemary potato cream and red chard. Light bites, classic cocktails, and French flair welcome guests at MAYDA Lobby Bar & Plaza, where they can take a seat and linger over afternoon tea and sweet confections imagined by notable Pastry Chef John Moreno. A Pool Bar located below The Plaza offers fresh juices and smoothies, along with healthy snacks and bowls – the ideal complement to a morning workout or afternoon swim. Vera Café tempts with specialty coffee from the Panamanian highlands, freshly baked croissants, chocolate confections, gourmet sandwiches and other tasty treats that are easy to grab on the go. Lastly, Ammi, which is scheduled to open shortly thereafter, offers a rooftop bar with sweeping views of the ocean and modern skyline – the perfect setting for Latin music, bespoke cocktails, grilled specialties, ceviche or a pizzetta.
