Padel Is the New It-Girl Amenity at Luxury Hotels

And then there’s the wellness component, which isn't new, per say, but is increasingly important to travelers—especially those looking for more than just yoga classes or guided hikes. “Like yoga enthusiasts planning a retreat, padel players build a trip centered around the sport,” says Krieger, who adds that the competition element adds a little intensity. “It’s about staying active, immersing yourself in the local food and culture, and connecting with people who share the same passion." Ready to hit the court?

The best hotels and resorts with padel courts

In the US, The Ritz-Carlton in Key Biscayne, Miami, offers three padel courts within a facility designed by sports icon Cliff Drysdale. Also in Florida, padel travelers can find courts in sun-soaked Caribe Royale Orlando, as well as two of Palm Beach’s swankiest resorts: The Breakers Palm Beach and The Belgrove, Autograph Collection.

The Houstonian Hotel, Club and Spa in Houston, Texas, is now home to two padel courts, along with a number of pools and an expansive health center. A bit farther west, Southern California’s first-ranked tennis resort Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa now features three padel courts. For some action in San Diego, players can check out to the ultra-luxe courts at Fairmont Grand Del Mar.

If you’re headed to Saint-Tropez, Airelles Château de La Messardière is a glorious invitation to play padel amongst a 30-acre estate alongside olive trees and pool views. For amenities galore, Pine Cliff Resort in Algarve, Portugal, is best for adventure artists, wellness-seekers, golf-lovers, and now padel travelers, with one expansive court. For a real sense of la dolce vita, Forte Village Resort is a dream stay in Sardinia, Italy, with courts available to book along with lessons from a professional coach.

Finally, if you want to play padel in the country where it truly took off (a one-of-a-kind experience, according to Krieger), book the trip to Spain. The Grand Hyatt La Manga Club is home to The Racquets Club, one of the most prestigious centers in Europe. The space offers services to learn and play with specialized, passionate coaches in a destination that lives and breathes padel.

Must-pack gear for a padel getaway