Padel is experiencing a remarkable surge in popularity among travelers. This sport is now recognized as one of the fastest-growing activities in the world, with over 35 million players globally. According to the International Padel Federation, the number of padel courts has expanded by more than 15% in one year, surpassing a total of 77,000 courts worldwide. Europe leads this trend, accounting for over 60% of players and about two-thirds of all courts.
Padel Holidays: A New Trend Among Travelers
As padel continues to gain traction, hotels and resorts are investing in this sport, boosting their appeal to visitors. Many are now incorporating padel courts as key amenities, transforming destinations into vibrant hubs for avid players. Below are some of the top resorts and locations for a padel-focused getaway.
Top Padel Destinations in Europe
Spain
- Puente Romano Beach Resort: Located on Marbella’s Golden Mile, this resort features four courts and often hosts international tournaments.
- La Manga Club: Situated in Murcia, this well-established resort offers multiple courts and coaching programs, catering to both competitive players and casual enthusiasts.
- Reserva del Higuerón Resort: Located on the Costa del Sol, it provides a design-led padel experience with stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Portugal
- Vale do Lobo Resort: A premier coastal resort in the Algarve with well-maintained floodlit padel courts.
- Quinta do Lago: This high-end resort offers a focused environment for athletes, featuring both indoor and outdoor courts.
- Pine Cliffs Resort: Nestled on dramatic cliffs, it provides a family-friendly atmosphere with access to educational programs through the Annabel Croft Padel Academy.
Italy
- Forte Village Resort: This luxury destination in Sardinia allows guests to blend padel with relaxation and gourmet dining.
- Verdura Resort: Operated by Rocco Forte Hotels in Sicily, features a tranquil padel center open from March to November.
France and Monaco
- Club Med Opio en Provence: This all-inclusive resort integrates padel into its daily activities, welcoming players of all levels.
- Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel: In Monaco, this high-end hotel offers luxurious padel courts as part of its upscale coastal experience.
Greece
- Costa Navarino: Situated on the Peloponnese coast, this large resort features extensive sports facilities, including three padel courts.
Sweden
- Hotel Tylösand: A coastal resort combining beach culture with padel, attracting both local and international visitors.
- Ellery Beach House: Near Stockholm, this boutique resort offers a relaxed atmosphere with three outdoor courts.
Emerging Padel Hotspot: Bali
Beyond Europe, Bali is becoming a prominent destination for luxury padel travel. The island’s Canggu area, known for its vibrant community, has established the Bali Padel Academy. This facility attracts international players and regularly hosts training camps. Further enhancing the experience, Como Uma Canggu combines beachfront luxury with a modern sports offering, positioning padel as part of a holistic lifestyle that includes surfing and wellness.
The rise of padel as a popular travel activity highlights its growing influence in the sports and tourism sectors. As resorts continue to embrace this sport, travelers can expect more exciting and integrated padel experiences in diverse locations around the globe.
