The Inside Scoop on Palace Distinction Hotels
You’ve heard of five-starred hotels, but what comes after this distinction? It’s not just about the luxurious bedrooms or on-site spa, a Michelin-starred restaurant or exquisite pool. It’s about true excellence. And in France, the palace distinction surpasses a simple five stars, and it’s not a label that just any hotel can add to its brochure. With clearly set criteria, the palace distinction must be earned and maintained. Consider it a sixth star. In our guide to palace hotels, we’re explaining the meaning of this title as well as the six hotels that recently earned this recognition.
The Inside Scoop on Palace Distinction Hotels
What is the Palace Distinction?
In 2010, the palace distinction was “created to identify and honor hotels offering an extraordinary hospitality experience, especially for establishments that embody excellence in service and the French art of living in all its forms,” according to an Atout France press release. In other words? It’s the hotels that go above and beyond, the ones who truly excel at their craft. Perhaps the Michelin star of hotels.
From Villa La Coste to Le Bristol, Hunter Cowing has stayed in a handful of palaces across France. “For me staying in a palace goes beyond luxury, it is a truly exceptional stay,” says this sales manager for French Side Travel.
In 2026, nearly 30 hotels renewed their palace distinction, while six establishments added this to their bragging rights, according to this June press release. Hotel star ratings are awarded every five years; for the palace distinction, it’s every three years, according to this same press release.
And it’s not just about the beauty or history of the property; it’s about their higher staff to guest ratio and a level of “unreasonable hospitality,” Cowing says. “They provide personalized, attentive service without clients even needing to ask,” he says. “For example, Le Bristol grows their own wheat, so they can mill their own flour on-site for their bread, pastries, and pasta,” he says.
New Hotels with Palace Distinction in 2026
Here’s a look at the six hotels that were awarded the palace distinction this year and some of our favorite features in each.
Cheval Blanc in Paris
Its sexy location on the Seine is just the beginning for this five-star hotel with palace distinction. Cheval Blanc is nestled in the celebrated La Samaritaine luxury department store in the 1st arrondissement. Its 72 rooms are anything but ordinary. Think views of the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Notre Dame; rooms decorated in Art Deco style; and in-suite hammam showers. The hotel excels with Majordome, or concierge, service. Guests with kids may have trouble getting their little ones to leave Le Carrousel Kid’s Club. Cheval Blanc doesn’t offer one restaurant but five different restaurants boasting various cuisines and Michelin stars. This palace hotel even offers private boat rides along the dreamy Seine River.
Bvlgari Hotel in Paris
Yes, you read that correctly. You’ve seen this Italian brand’s storefronts across the world, and this hotel is just an extension of its excellence. This palace and its 76 rooms and suites are nestled in the chic 8th arrondissement of Paris. For a truly exceptional experience, reserve the penthouse with its two stories, more than 10,000 square feet and Eiffel Tower views. Be wooed by decorated chef Niko Romito at the hotel’s restaurant serving Italian fare. Or reserve its private dining room for an intimate experience. For Bvlgari, it’s all in the details. From its 24/7 butler service to VIP transfers (and even Berluti shoe care services!), it’s luxury through and through. Traveling with kids? This hotel also has packages ideal for families and welcome gifts that the little ones are sure to love.
Fouquet’s in Paris
With just over 100 rooms and suites, this palace seeks to find the harmony between the spectacular and the intimate, according to its website. Designed by French architect Jacques Garcia, Fouqet’s will thrill with its rooms but also its throng of food service. With several restaurants and cocktail bars, guests certainly won’t go hungry or thirsty. Whether you choose the ornately decorated Joy Bar or the rooftop bar with its sweeping views, you’ll find your cup of tea — or shall we say cocktail? Along with butler service and valet parking, keep your eyes peeled for the Diptyque toiletries found in each room and its pickleball court. Inside the hotel, be tempted by its spa, photo shoot experience by Studio Harcourt and tea time. The hotel can also organize a behind-the-scenes visit to Versailles or an initiation drive in a Porsche 911.
Four Seasons Resort Megève
In search of a luxurious escape to the alps? This palace promises 55 rooms and suites and twice-daily housekeeping service. Ski lovers will adore its ski-in, ski-out access. For an out-of-this-world experience, book its Suite Idéal, the highest accommodation in Megève. Whether a yoga session in its ecological geodesic dome or a round on its 18-hole golf course on Mont d’Arbois, find the activity that lights you up. As exceptional as this palace hotel may be, this resort doesn’t lack in offering tempting activities nearby: snowshoeing, snowmobile, hot-air balloon and rafting. The Four Seasons resort also boasts a French brasserie, a Peruvian-Japanese fusion restaurant, pop-up fondue and a mountaintop eatery. In addition to its dining, pay a visit to its wine cellar and cigar room. This Alpine resort seeks to make the stay a success for the whole family with a kids’ club, teens’ zone and pet services.
Hôtel Martinez in Cannes
Boasting nearly a century of history, this hotel packs luxury into its 400+ rooms and suites. For larger groups, we recommend booking one of its penthouses. In addition to its sophisticated decor, indulge in customized grocery delivery, in-room massages, and Carita cosmetics. Reserve a sunbed or an entire cabana at its beach. Order caviar to be enjoyed in your suite. Or play one of the hotel’s games from pétanque to yams, which you can bring home with you. Book a table at its Michelin-starred La Palme d’Or, or sip on a cocktail at the snazzy 1930s-inspired Martinez Bar. And naturally, this hotel offers several seaside dining experiences for a delicious experience with views. Shop to your heart’s content at its Eleventy Boutique, and unwind with spa treatments at L’Oasis du Martinez.
Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa near Epernay
Indulge in an intimate encounter with the region of Champagne and its rolling vineyards. This hotel’s 47 rooms and suites all boast vineyard views. From Diptyque products in the rooms to private patios, Royal Champagne Hôtel & Spa aims to please. Spend the day at its on-site spa, and savor a gastronomic meal at Michelin-starred Le Royal. Sip on a crisp libation at its bar, and get the best recommendations from its head sommelier Philippe Marque.
At French Side Travel, we’re experts in luxury, and for a truly lavish experience, hotels with the palace distinction are your key. From Paris to Cannes, these six hotels recently added to the collection of palace hotels promise a thrilling experience from start to finish. we’re here to help you plan your splendid trip to France. Contact one of our travel specialists today to start your itinerary. You might also like: Exploring the wonders of the City of Light or Immersion in the Unique Highlights of the French Riviera.