The “Palace” designation, the highest ranking in France’s luxury hotel industry, is set to be revoked from three prestigious establishments for the first time since 2010. This downgrade speaks volumes about economic pressures and fierce competition.
A veritable bombshell in the hushed and discreet world of luxury hotels.
Two Parisian establishments (Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme and Mandarin Oriental Paris) as well as a third based in the Landes region (Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz) will have to bid farewell to their Palace distinction.
No longer meeting the criteria of excellence required by the Palace Commission, they will be downgraded to five-star status. A first since the label’s creation in 2010.
Stricter Award Criteria
Established in 2010, the Palace label aims to distinguish the five-star hotels considered the most extraordinary in the country. Awarded by the French government via Atout France, it is not based solely on the building itself. The establishment’s history, its location, and its unique character are also taken into account. As is the quality of its service.
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