
Hospitality Experience
Development Advisory for Vlorë Marina Project
Horwath HTL was engaged by the investor of a landmark mixed-use project in Vlorë, Albania, to provide comprehensive development advisory support.
This ambitious development spans over 300,000 square meters of Gross Developed Area (GDA) and features internationally branded hotels, over 1,000 keys of branded and non-branded residences, a commercial area, and a 450-berth nautical marina.
Project scope
Horwath HTL was engaged by the investor of a landmark mixed-use project in Vlorë, Albania, to provide comprehensive development advisory support. This ambitious development spans over 300,000 square meters of Gross Developed Area (GDA) and features internationally branded hotels, over 1,000 keys of branded and non-branded residences, a commercial area, and a 450-berth nautical marina. Once completed, it will be the largest mixed-use project on the Albanian coast, setting a new benchmark for the region’s real estate and tourism industries.
Our scope of work began with a professional review of the project’s master plan. Horwath HTL evaluated the layout, integration of components, and overall design to ensure alignment with market demand, functional efficiency, and long-term operational success. Recommendations were made to optimize the plan, focusing on the seamless integration of hospitality, residential, commercial, and marina elements to enhance guest and resident experiences.
The highest and best use (HBU) concept was defined for both the hotel and real estate components, taking into account market demand, competitive positioning, and the potential for value creation. For the hospitality segment, Horwath HTL provided strategic insights to guide the development of the first Marriott-branded hotel and residences in Albania, ensuring its alignment with the brand’s global standards and the project’s vision. The operator search process was managed for both the hotel and the nautical marina, identifying and engaging with leading operators to secure partnerships that matched the project’s scale and ambitions.
For the commercial area, Horwath HTL defined the HBU concept and business model, proposing strategies to attract tenants and visitors while complementing the overall development. This included recommendations for tenant mix, experiential elements, and operational strategies to create a vibrant and sustainable commercial hub.
The project is now under construction, with Horwath HTL’s advisory services providing a solid foundation for its successful delivery. By combining strategic planning, market expertise, and operational insights, Horwath HTL has played a critical role in shaping this transformative development, poised to become a landmark destination on the Albanian coast.
Project Location
Vlorë, Albania