Banyan Tree making debut in Europe

Banyan Tree Group has announced that it will make its debut in Europe in 2026, with the upcoming Banyan Tree Varko Bay. The new luxury resort – which will be developed on the Varko Peninsula in Pogonia, Aitoloakarnania – is the result of a collaboration between Banyan Tree and Accor.

The resort will consist of approximately 116 villas and 45 branded residences, designed to be seamlessly integrated into their coastal surroundings. Banyan Tree Varko Bay will see a continuation of the group’s all-pool villa concept, with water wrapping around the property’s perimeter, backdropped by views of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding islands of Lefkada, Meganisi and Skorpios.

Banyan Tree Varko Bay will also include a spa, water sports centre, meeting and event space, a beach club, several bars and three restaurants, including the signature Saffron, where guests will dine on Thai cuisine.

In keeping with Banyan Tree’s core pillar of sustainability, Banyan Tree Varko Bay will be constructed and operate with a focus on sustainability and eco-sensitivity. Built in partnership with Greek Elastic Architects, the resort aims to be the first in Europe to achieve LEED Gold certification while, mirroring existing Banyan Tree developments, it will prioritise responsible water use – 70% of water will be reused for irrigation – the use of renewable energy sources and vegetation growth.

The new opening will add to the group’s current portfolio of over 60 hotels worldwide, with a potential of more than 50 projects coming to fruition by 2025.