Accor has introduced its hotel and apartments brand The Sebel to the Whitsundays with the opening of a property in the tropical resort town of Airlie Beach.

The Sebel Whitsundays Airlie Beach, which debuted in December, offers 54 newly-refurbished guestrooms, including one- and two-bedroom apartments, three-bedroom penthouses and four-bedroom presidential suites.

It also includes a 15-metre swimming pool, heated outdoor spa, fitness centre and outdoor dining area with barbeque facilities.

Accor Pacific Chief Executive Officer, Simon McGrath, said the company is excited to bring the brand to one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations.

“The Sebel has a long-standing reputation for delivering exceptional accommodation and an outstanding service experience. It brings quality and credibility to the serviced apartments sector, which is rapidly growing in popularity,” he said.

“We’re seeing strong visitor numbers at our Whitsundays properties and we’re forecasting greater growth with Queensland border restrictions now easing.”

The Sebel Whitsundays Airlie Beach joined Accor’s network of more than 30 The Sebel properties across Australia and New Zealand following the signing of a franchise agreement with Australian-owned At Hotel Group.

At Hotel Group Managing Director, Jeff Aquilina, said he is confident the property will have great success under Accor.

“Accor’s brands have well-established reach and global strength and this translates to strong brand awareness and market penetration. Partnering The Sebel brand with this property is a natural association,” Aquilina said.

“We believe The Sebel brand perfectly captures the essence of this premium apartment-style resort.”

Airlie Beach is a popular base for holidaymakers looking to explore the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday Islands, and The Sebel property is conveniently-located opposite the Port of Airlie marina and a short walk from downtown.

In the Whitsundays region, Accor also operates Mantra Boathouse Apartments Airlie Beach and Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach.