Shangri-La hotel in Paris awarded palace status

Less than four years after its opening, Shangri-La Hotel, Paris has been granted an official ‘Palace Distinction’.

The best hotels in France are awarded ‘palace’ status in recognition of exceptional service excellence from Atout France, the French Agency for Tourism Development.

Established in 2010, the accolade is provided to properties that fulfil a number of criteria and “embody French standards of excellence and contribute to enhancing the image of France throughout the world.”

Shangri-La Paris joins a handful of other venues that have been awarded the ‘palace’ distinction, such as Katara-owned Raffles property, Le Royal Monceau and Four Seasons George V.

Stefan Bollhalder, general manager of Shangri-La Hotel, Paris stated: “I would like to thank the Atout France jury members for exalting Shangri-La Hotel, Paris to the position of an exceptional hotel embodying French excellence and elevating France’s prestige on the world stage.

“This distinction constitutes a fitting reward for the staff teams who toil day after day to ensure our clientele’s well-being, under the guidance of the five key values of Shangri-La: humility, respect, courtesy, generosity of heart and sincerity.”

The hotel was constructed in1896 by Prince Roland Bonaparte, who was the Emperor’s great-nephew. The aristocracy and upper classes of the time gathered with men of letters and scientists in the hotel.

Having undergone complete refurbishment by Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts from 2006 to 2010, the Prince’s residence is now listed with the French institution, Monuments Historiques.

Shangri-La Hotel, Paris is located just a few steps from the Eiffel Tower. The majority of the hotel’s 101 rooms and suites offer views of famous Paris sights.

Among the hotel’s F&B outlets are L’Abeille, with two Michelin-starred Chef Philippe Labbé and Shang Palace the only Chinese restaurant in France awarded one Michelin star.

The spa has a 16-metre pool and the historical banqueting and function spaces, cover 550 m², and have been in use since the 19th century, during which Prince Roland Bonaparte held his receptions in the banquet hall.