Copacabana Palace Reimagines Iconic Pool Wing with All-Suite Sanctuaries

In November 2026, the Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, will reopen its revitalized 1948 Pool wing in Rio de Janeiro, following a nineteen-month renovation. This significant undertaking will introduce an exclusive collection of suites, all featuring private balconies, along with a newly conceptualized pool area, a contemporary bar, a reimagined Italian restaurant, and a boutique showcasing Brazilian craftsmanship. A notable addition is a five-floor wellness and spa complex, representing a considerable expansion of the hotel's offering.

Nicolas Garnier of LRDH - le magazine des hôtels de luxe reports that this renovation marks the most extensive project for the hotel since its centenary, 103 years after its initial opening facing Copacabana beach. The Pool wing, an Art Deco structure from 1948, has been entirely reimagined to consist exclusively of suites. Garnier notes that most of these new accommodations will offer views of both the pool and the ocean, enhancing the sense of place for guests.

The wellness expansion is particularly noteworthy. Nicolas Garnier writes that the five floors dedicated to spa and wellness amenities are 'a first on this scale in Rio', underscoring the ambition behind this aspect of the project. Beyond the suites and wellness facilities, the redevelopment also includes a reinvented Italian restaurant, promising a fresh culinary perspective, and a new bar, which Garnier highlights as an additional draw.

Our take: This strategic investment by Belmond at the Copacabana Palace reflects a broader trend in luxury hospitality: the elevation of suite inventory and the comprehensive integration of wellness as a core guest experience. Moving to an all-suite format in a dedicated wing not only increases perceived value but also allows for a more bespoke service offering. The commitment to a multi-story wellness complex positions the Copacabana Palace as a significant player in the growing South American luxury wellness market, mirroring similar ambitious developments seen in European and Asian properties.