Collins History
A family way of life
In Knokke-Heist, the name Collins has become synonymous with sun, atmosphere, and an almost cinematic way of living. But behind that effortless exterior lives a family that builds, creates, and dreams as one. Christoph and Ann Trio, together with their son Victor and a close-knit team, shape what Collins stands for today: togetherness, entrepreneurship, and a deep love for life.
Collins is not a concept that was invented overnight. It’s a family story — grown over decades, carried by passion, trust, and the belief that people matter more than places.
From Soleado to a growing vision (1991–2018)
The story begins in 1991, when Christoph Trio and his partner Ann Laridon took over their very first piece of beach in the heart of Het Zoute, Knokke. They called it Soleado, Spanish for sunny. Back then, it was modest: a few sunbeds, beach cabins, and a lot of hard work.
Two years later, a second beach followed, this time at the iconic ‘Place m’As-Tu-Vu’ on Albertplein. Slowly, step by step, the vision grew. A water tap, a shower, a tiny cabin selling drinks, and suddenly the beach became more than just a place to lie down. It became a place to stay.
In the early 2000s, ambition followed opportunity. New beachclub locations opened Knokke en Oostende. Each project added experience, confidence, and a deeper understanding of what truly makes people feel welcome.
A new generation, a new energy (2019–2023)
Growing up on the beach, sons Maxim and Victor naturally found their place within the family story. In 2019, nearly 30 years after his parents began, Maxim was given the chance to run his own stretch of beach, right at Place m’as-tu-vu. The place where he had spent so much of his youth.
Soleado became Collins Beach.
A new name, a new generation, a fresh energy.
Maxim surrounded himself with a young team, reshaped the atmosphere, and created something Knokke had been missing: a place by, for, and with young people, without losing elegance or soul. The Collins identity was born.
Together with Victor, who supported every project with relentless dedication, Collins expanded organically. Collins Cojones, the pétanque team, became one of the youngest and most successful in Belgium. The Garden followed in 2021, a hidden villa turned into a creative playground for DJs, celebrations, and unforgettable nights. Around the same time, FC Collins was founded, quickly growing into a football team that embodied the same ambition, togetherness, and Collins spirit, both on and off the pitch.
Around Collins, something unexpected happened: a real community formed.
“The Collins Family,” as Maxim called it.
People became friends. Moments became memories.
Sky above, sand below, peace within.
Carrying the story forward (2024–today)
Maxim’s ambition reached beyond borders. His dream? To bring Collins abroad.
In 2024, together with longtime family friend Nick Wymeersch, Collins Terraza Marbella opened its doors, a new chapter under the Spanish sun.
But while negotiating future plans, the unthinkable happened.
On November 16, 2024, Maxim suddenly passed away during a trip to Panama.
The Collins family lost its driving force, its connector, its heart.
After months of pause, grief, and reflection, Christoph, Ann, and Victor made a decision: the Collins story would not end here. What Maxim built, and believed in, deserved to live on. Not through haste or pressure, but with care, respect, and intention.
Season 2025 marked a new beginning.
Victor founded Collins Running Club, built around health, movement, and togetherness. The focus returned to what Collins has always done best: bringing people together through sport, pleasure, relaxation, and shared moments.
“We bring people together,” Victor says. “In sport. In joy. In memories. We create moments.”
The journey continues. Perhaps slower, but stronger.
As a tribute to Maxim.
As a family.
As Collins.
