Everyone knows Michelin for its tires and its world-famous restaurant guide with its coveted stars. But now, the French manufacturer is taking another step by launching the Michelin Keys, a new distinction celebrating the finest hotels around the globe. After guiding travelers on the road, Michelin now wants to help them choose where to stop. And, just like its tires, the goal remains the same: excellence, precision, and the joy of travel.
A Continuing Story
Created more than 125 years ago to help motorists plan their journeys, the Michelin Guide quickly evolved into a global reference in gastronomy. Today, it returns to its roots by recognizing not only restaurants but also hotels that turn a simple stay into an unforgettable experience.
The Michelin Keys work much like restaurant stars. One key signals a very special stay, marked by unique character and attentive service. Two keys indicate an exceptional stay, where design, hospitality, and atmosphere come together perfectly. Three keys are reserved for the truly extraordinary, those rare places where every detail speaks of refinement and timeless elegance.
To earn such recognition, inspectors visit, evaluate, and rate hotels according to strict criteria such as quality of service, architecture, sense of place, and above all, the coherence of the overall experience. These distinctions thus become a global, independent benchmark for hospitality excellence, much like Michelin stars are for fine dining.
Canadian Hotels in the Spotlight
Canada has earned an impressive place in this first international selection. Two exceptional properties received the ultimate distinction of three Michelin Keys: Fogo Island Inn in Newfoundland, a hotel seemingly suspended between sea and sky where each season offers a new experience, and Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge in British Columbia, which offers a luxurious take on glamping amid a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve.
The country’s major cities also shine. In Montreal, Le Mount Stephen and Hôtel Place d’Armes stand out for their blend of historic architecture and contemporary design. In Quebec City, Auberge Saint-Antoine immerses guests in history with its 17th-century walls and curated artifacts. The Michelin Keys celebrate both the grandeur of Canada’s wild landscapes and the elegance of its urban charm.
Ultimately, what connects it all, from high-performance winter tires to luxury hotels, is the Michelin spirit. For over a century, the brand has championed quality, reliability, and the pleasure of travel. Now, it doesn’t just improve how you drive, but also where you rest. And if your tires take you far, why not let them lead you somewhere truly extraordinary?
