Hospitality

Erqole expands in Italy with Boutique Hotel Torre Di Cala Piccola

Jun 1, 2024

Erqole, which is part of the Swedish group Qarlbo AB, is expanding its investments on the Italian peninsula of Argentario in Tuscany, Italy, through the acquisition of the unique boutique hotel Torre di Cala Piccola. The acquisition enriches Erqole's portfolio on Argentario, which now spans the island from sunrise to sunset with two hotels, a new beach club, and more development projects underway

July 1st, 2024 – The investment in the boutique hotel Torre di Cala Piccola on the Italian peninsula of Argentario is another step in the long-term vision for the destination and Tuscany's forgotten coast. Behind Erqole and the Swedish group Qarlbo AB stands the Jonsson family, whose commitment to the region spans many years.

The acquisition is part of Erqole's growing Italian portfolio of investments in the area. Erqole already owns and manages the exclusive boutique hotel LA ROQQA, along with its associated beach club, Isolotto. Additionally, Erqole is behind the update of Fattoria La Capitana in Magliano and the complete renovation of Cirio, a former fish factory in Porto Ercole that had been abandoned for 40 years, and which is now being transformed into a luxury hotel by architect Marco Casamonti.

Through these acquisitions, Erqole aims to expand its portfolio and strengthen the Jonsson family's vision of a long-term revival of the Argentario area. The Argentario peninsula, located in the southwestern part of Tuscany and only a 90-minute drive from Rome, is a coastline rarely recognized, despite its dramatic cliffs, beautiful coves, crystal-clear waters, and views of the Tuscan archipelago.

With the investment in Hotel Torre di Cala Piccola, Erqole expands its offerings and covers more geographic parts of the area. The goal is to provide the highest standard of hospitality for a unique and high-quality guest experience. The boutique hotel Torre di Cala Piccola is surrounded by a private park of over 11,000 square meters, offering panoramic views of Giglio Island and sunsets over the Mediterranean horizon. The hotel opened for the 2024 season on April 11 under the management of Erqole's team, with 53 rooms and suites, a restaurant, and a bistro where guests can enjoy authentic Tuscan flavors.

"With this acquisition, we offer our guests the opportunity to fall in love with an incredibly beautiful destination that combines the perfect balance of sea and nature. We are investing with conviction in long-term projects to build the value that the destination deserves. The focus is on a level of hospitality that is of the highest standard yet sustainable, especially from a social perspective, a philosophy that we primarily express through our employees who make our products extraordinary and unforgettable," says Anton Jonsson, Creative Director of Erqole and Qarlbo, and member of the Qarlbo board.

To lead all projects and operational activities, Stefan Cuoco has recently been appointed the new CEO of Erqole. With 20 years of experience in the luxury hospitality sector, Stefan Cuoco will support former CEO Flavio Bucciarelli, who has taken on a central role as CEO of Qarlbo Hospitality. Together, they form a highly experienced and committed team that will work to realize Erqole's vision for this unique destination.

For further information, please contact: Robin Hallgren, CMO Qarlbo Hospitality, robin.hallgren@qarlbo.com

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