FRHI will open a Swissotel in the Bulgarian capital of Sofia in 2018 – the brand's first hotel in the Balkan country.

The 200-bedroom flagship property is being built in conjunction with Turkish developer Garanti Koza, and will be part of Grand Kanyon Sofia, a mixed-use development that will also include three residential towers as well as 50,000sq m (538,196sq ft) of retail, entertainment and commercial space.

Swissotel Sofia will include the brand’s signature spa concept, Purovel Spa & Sport, which will offer Alpine-inspired treatments, exercise classes and fitness equipment. While the Purovel concept is Alpine-inspired in its look and feel, Swissotel also makes a point of incorporating unique, local elements from each location, so expect to see some Bulgarian spa traditions in Sofia.

Designed by California-based Jerde Partnership in collaboration with local architect ACIK Architecture and Design Studio, the property will also include 81 contemporary, serviced residences, ranging in size from one to three bedrooms, as well as a two-floor penthouse on the top level with views across the city.

“Bulgaria is a thriving member of the European Union and a country that is focused on increasing investment and furthering its economic growth; entering the market aligns with our growth strategy and the destination is a wonderful addition for us,” said Jennifer Fox, president FRHI International.

“We’re also very happy to be partnering with Garanti Koza, an established and experienced developer, on a high-profile project that is certain to strengthen Swissotel’s well-established reputation in this part of the world.”

Swissotel most recently opened a location in Bodrum Beach, Turkey with a 1,700sq m (18,299sq ft), seven-treatment room Purovel Spa.

Last month, Accor Hotels announced plans to buy Swissotel parent company FRHI in a deal valued at approximately US$2.9bn (€2.6bn, £1.9bn).