Michelin Guide announces new Michelin Key award for hotels

The Michelin Guide recently announced proposals to further celebrate the world of hospitality with the introduction of the MICHELIN Key in 2024.

Going beyond the culinary world, the Michelin Key from the Michelin Guide aims to spotlight over 5,000 exceptional hotels globally, providing travelers with a clear and reliable indicator of extraordinary accommodations.

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, emphasises that the Michelin Key serves as a testament to the dedication of passionate hospitality professionals, marking a significant shift in the way travelers discover unique and memorable stays.

After an exhaustive four-year effort to revamp their hotel selection criteria, the Michelin Guide is committed to independently recommending establishments that transcend mere lodging.

Focusing on personalised experiences, the Guide highlights architectural excellence, craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a distinct personality as key factors in their selection process.

The revamped selection covers over 5,000 outstanding hotels across 120 countries, offering diverse styles and price ranges.

.@guideMichelinFR launches the Michelin Key 🗝️ to celebrate exceptional hotels! The first ranking is scheduled for 2024 🏆. An expansion after almost a century of Michelin stars, offering a complete hospitality experience. Find out more in @LeFigaro 👉 https://t.co/zcpzge0P4P

— Michelin News (@MichelinNews) November 21, 2023

What is the Michelin Key?

The Michelin Key includes five criteria guiding this selection including the hotel's role as a destination, excellence in architecture and interior design, service quality and consistency, singularity reflecting the establishment's unique character, and a balance between the quality of the experience and the price paid.

Breaking away from traditional labels, the Michelin Guide aims to:

1. Guide travelers to boutique accommodations that go beyond providing a mere night's stay.

2. Enhance gastronomic experiences by pairing them with memorable hotel stays.

3. Provide a seamless, ad-free platform for travelers to choose, book, and review their stays.

The Michelin Key will distinguish exceptional establishments through anonymous stays conducted by the Guide's selection teams.

The first Michelin Key selection is set to be unveiled in the first half of 2024, promising a new era in the world of distinguished hotel experiences.

Find out more about the UK's extensive selection of 1, 2, and 3 Michelin-starred restaurants by reading our extensive guide.