A first look at Four Seasons Hotel Rio de Janeiro

Four Seasons Hotel Rio de Janeiro is set to transform the Marina Palace, locally known as the Marinao, in the Leblon neighbourhood, with around 120 keys and a 2029 opening that marks the brand’s return to Brazil. Reworking an existing landmark rather than building new gives the project a known quantity to start from, and Leblon is among Rio’s most desirable beachfront districts. The roughly 120-key scale keeps it on the intimate side for a city hotel.

We have not stayed, and with a 2029 target this is a long way out, so treat it as anticipation. What we will be watching for is how the conversion of an existing tower handles the room layouts and views, and how Four Seasons positions a returning Brazilian flagship. On paper, a Leblon beachfront address is a strong foundation for the brand’s re-entry.