Pickleball’s expansion into luxury hospitality received another boost after Fouquet’s Paris, one of France’s most iconic hotels, secured the prestigious Palace distinction and highlighted its dedicated pickleball court as part of its premium guest experience.
Located on Avenue George V near the Champs-Élysées, Fouquet’s Paris was among six new properties to receive the Palace designation in the latest classification announced by Atout France. While the recognition reflects the hotel’s broader luxury standards, one feature has attracted attention beyond the hospitality industry: a dedicated pickleball court installed within one of the property’s courtyards.
The addition reflects a growing trend among luxury resorts and hotels worldwide, where pickleball is increasingly being used as both a recreational amenity and a lifestyle attraction for guests.
Julien Gardin, General Manager of Fouquet’s Paris, said the court has become a unique feature within the Paris hotel landscape. “We are the first hotel in Paris to offer this,” Gardin said.
The hotel’s recognition follows a major transformation project that has reshaped several parts of the property. Aside upgrades to rooms, wellness facilities and public spaces, the pickleball court has emerged as an unexpected addition inside one of France’s most prestigious hospitality destinations.
Industry observers say the move reflects pickleball’s growing appeal among affluent travelers who increasingly seek active lifestyle experiences during their stays. The Palace distinction itself is one of the highest honors in French hospitality and is awarded only to hotels that meet strict service and operational standards.
Coralie Malazdra, Marketing and Communications Director at Fouquet’s Paris, outlined some of the requirements that establishments must satisfy.
“A minimum number of staff is required, the hotel now has 15 to 20% more personnel, a spa is mandatory, and the room must be at least 28 square meters, otherwise it’s grounds for disqualification,” Malazdra said.
“It was Diane Barrière’s dream, who went there very regularly with her children, to make Fouquet’s a palace,” Malazdra added.
For the management team, the new status represents years of work and investment. “We are extremely proud to receive this Palace distinction. It is essential for us and for our iconic establishment,” Gardin said.
As pickleball continues to spread across Europe, the sport is increasingly appearing in places once associated exclusively with traditional luxury experiences. Fouquet’s Paris now joins a growing list of international hotels using dedicated pickleball facilities to attract guests looking for both recreation and wellness during their stay.
The development highlights how pickleball’s reach now extends far beyond community courts and sporting clubs, finding a place within some of the world’s most exclusive hospitality destinations.
