Golden Palace sets up in Digne-les-Bains: a strategic turning point for the city
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10 Jun 2025 •
Reading time: 3 minutes In Digne-les-Bains, the laying of the foundation stone for the future Golden Palace casino marks the beginning of an ambitious project combining entertainment, economic momentum, and sustainable development. Scheduled to open by the end of 2026, this new venue promises much more than a traditional gaming space.
June 4, 2025, will remain a milestone in Digne-les-Bains’ history. On this day, the city and the Belgian group Golden Palace officially launched the construction of a new casino in the Vallon des Sources. This large-scale initiative aims to provide the city with a true leisure complex, envisioned as a driver of local and regional vitality.
Backed by a private investment of €8 million, the future casino stands out for its multifaceted approach: beyond a gaming room, it will include a restaurant, bar, relaxation areas, an outdoor stage, and a space for cultural and multigenerational events. The project, part of an 18-year public service delegation contract, reflects a clear ambition: to position Digne-les-Bains as a leading destination for thermal tourism and entertainment.
A key economic driver
Beyond its entertainment offering, the casino is expected to become a significant economic engine. According to the city, the project will create around 30 direct jobs and generate €18 million in revenue for the municipality over the life of the contract. A considerable figure for a mid-sized town, betting on this kind of investment to enhance its appeal.
Sandra Raponi, Vice-President of the Department, and Pierre Catillon, Departmental Councillor, emphasized the strategic importance of the project for the entire Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region. The Department has invested €600,000 to improve access to the thermal baths, anticipating the influx of future visitors.
Eco-friendly architecture rooted in the landscape
One of the most noteworthy aspects of the project is its ecological and architectural vision. Nestled in a lush green valley, the casino has been designed to blend harmoniously into the landscape and meet the challenges of energy efficiency.
Massimo Menegalli, President of the Golden Palace Group, summarized the project’s philosophy:
“We believe in the concept of popular entertainment. Our ambition? To create recreational, respectful, and responsible spaces that everyone can embrace.”
This vision resonates with the region’s environmental goals. The building will not only showcase Golden Palace’s expertise but will also serve as a concrete example of what a 21st-century casino can be—balancing entertainment, social responsibility, and sustainability.
Digne-les-Bains: tourism and thermal spa excellence
For Patricia Granet-Brunello, Mayor of Digne-les-Bains and President of Provence Alpes Agglomération, the project is part of a broader tourism strategy:
“Soon, people will talk about Digne for its thermal baths, its spa… and its casino!”
The goal is clear: to transform Digne-les-Bains from a mere administrative center into a full-fledged tourist destination, on par with other French spa towns. The year-round casino will complement an already rich offering, drawing a wider audience seeking a mix of wellness, culture, and gaming.
A long-term vision for Golden Palace in France
Already well established in Belgium, Golden Palace is expanding in France with projects that offer strong local potential. The group appears to be targeting dynamic secondary cities where a casino can become a key hub of attraction.
This is no gamble: by integrating values of sustainability, culture, and community, Golden Palace positions itself as an innovative player aligned with the modern expectations of both the gaming industry and local governments.