In an unexpected announcement, the Michelin Guide has officially extended its renowned distinction system to the hotel industry with the introduction of the Michelin Key. Unveiled today, this new designation mirrors the Michelin Star system used for restaurants, recognizing the world’s top hotels for their exceptional service, design, and guest experience. With Canada among the first to receive these honours, travelers can now rely on the Michelin Key to guide them to the most remarkable hotels across the country.
One Michelin Key hotels: A diverse selection across Canada
Ontario
Canada’s One Key hotels include a diverse mix of properties, ranging from chic city stays to peaceful countryside retreats. In Toronto, Ace Hotel Toronto, Bisha Hotel Toronto, and 1 Hotel Toronto are modern, stylish options for those seeking a trendy, urban experience. For more refined luxury, Shangri-La Hotel Toronto and Park Hyatt Toronto offer elevated, sophisticated stays in the city’s core. Outside of Toronto, The Royal Hotel in Picton provides a serene, upscale experience, perfect for those looking to relax in a charming small-town setting.
Quebec
Quebec’s One Key hotels combine luxury, history, and scenic retreats. In Montreal, Le Mount Stephen, housed in a 19th-century mansion, offers a unique and opulent experience. Le Place d’Armes Hotel & Suites and Hotel Le Germain Montreal feature modern accommodations that reflect the city’s rich history, while Le Petit Hotel provides a more intimate, boutique atmosphere. In Mont Tremblant, Hotel Quintessence offers a serene lakeside retreat with upscale amenities. Meanwhile, Le Germain Charlevoix Hotel & Spa in Baie-St-Paul delivers rustic charm amidst picturesque countryside surroundings.
Alberta
In Alberta, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and Post Hotel & Spa in Lake Louise are renowned for their stunning views of the Canadian Rockies and exceptional service, making them ideal destinations for nature lovers. Fairmont Banff Springs, with its historic grandeur and breathtaking location in Banff National Park, remains a favourite for those seeking both luxury and history. In Calgary, The Dorian, Autograph Collection offers a modern, design-forward experience, adding a contemporary touch to Alberta’s prestigious lineup of Michelin-recognized hotels.
British Columbia
British Columbia’s One Key hotels offer a perfect balance of urban luxury and natural beauty. In Whistler, Nita Lake Lodge stands out for its serene setting and luxurious amenities. In Vancouver, Wedgewood Hotel & Spa, Shangri-La Vancouver, and Loden Hotel offer refined urban retreats, each with its own unique approach to high-end hospitality. Over in Victoria, Fairmont Empress Hotel and Magnolia Hotel & Spa combine historic charm with modern luxury, making them iconic stays on Vancouver Island for travelers seeking both elegance and comfort.
Nova Scotia
In Halifax, Muir, Autograph Collection is a standout luxury hotel offering a refined blend of modern design and local heritage. Located on the waterfront, Muir offers stunning views of the Halifax Harbour and is part of the vibrant Queen’s Marque district. The hotel features elegant accommodations, curated local art, and exceptional amenities, including a private speakeasy, wellness centre, and exclusive guest access to a sailing vessel. Muir provides a luxurious and authentic Nova Scotia experience with a strong connection to the region’s culture and history.
Two Key hotels: A blend of luxury and history
Quebec
Several iconic Canadian hotels were awarded Two Michelin Keys, highlighting their ability to offer refined experiences while maintaining cultural relevance. In Quebec, Manoir Hovey in North Hatley and Auberge Saint-Antoine in Quebec City received this recognition. Manoir Hovey is a lakeside haven known for its luxury, while Auberge Saint-Antoine intertwines history with modern comforts, showcasing artefacts from the 17th century.
Ontario
Toronto, unsurprisingly, is home to two of the country’s Two Key hotels: Four Seasons Hotel Toronto in Yorkville and The Hazelton Hotel. Both offer exceptional city experiences and are recognized for their elegance and consistent service quality.
British Columbia
On the West Coast, Fairmont Chateau Whistler and Four Seasons Resort Whistler offer luxurious, year-round stays in Whistler, excelling in both winter ski seasons and summer activities. In Tofino, the Wickaninnish Inn stands out for its stunning coastal setting and commitment to providing a refined, nature-driven experience. Meanwhile, in Vancouver, Rosewood Hotel Georgia is renowned for its historic charm and upscale amenities, blending timeless elegance with modern luxury to offer guests an unforgettable stay in the heart of the city.
Three Michelin Key hotels in Canada
Two Canadian hotels have earned the highest accolade of Three Michelin Keys, reflecting their superior commitment to providing an unparalleled guest experience. First is the Fogo Island Inn, located off the coast of Newfoundland. Fogo Island Inn offers a remote, eco-conscious escape, rooted in the island’s unique heritage and landscapes. The second Three Key hotel is Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge in Tofino, British Columbia. Known for its luxury tents and access to the stunning wilderness of Vancouver Island, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge redefines the glamping experience in the UNESCO-protected Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve.
Expanding travel horizons with Michelin Keys
The introduction of the Michelin Key designations in Canada offers travelers an excellent guide to some of the country’s finest hotels. From cosmopolitan city stays to serene wilderness escapes, these Michelin-recognized properties elevate the hospitality experience, ensuring guests receive the highest levels of service and quality. Whether seeking adventure in nature or a luxurious city escape, the newly crowned Michelin Key hotels in Canada are redefining what it means to experience world-class travel.
