MICHELIN Guide Introduces Prestigious Key Distinctions for Canadian Hotels in 2024

Canada’s Hospitality Sector Shines as MICHELIN Guide Awards Key Distinctions to Top Hotels in 2024

The MICHELIN Guide, known worldwide for its rigorous standards in culinary and hospitality excellence, has unveiled its first-ever Key distinctions for North American hotels, including a spotlight on Canada’s top-tier accommodations. This marks a significant moment in Canadian hospitality, with the MICHELIN Guide now recognizing hotels that offer extraordinary guest experiences, independently of other industry labels or ratings. The introduction of One, Two, and Three MICHELIN Keys provides a fresh international benchmark, highlighting properties that excel in hospitality, unique design, and outstanding service.

The MICHELIN Key Standard: A New Benchmark for Hotels

Unlike traditional hotel ratings, the MICHELIN Key system is awarded based on anonymous visits by the Guide’s inspectors, ensuring impartiality and excellence. The Keys recognize hotels that go beyond offering just luxury—they highlight properties that deliver unforgettable experiences through distinctive character, thoughtful hospitality, and a commitment to excellence. This adds another layer of recognition to hotels already celebrated for their culinary offerings through MICHELIN-starred restaurants.

For 2024, Canada’s MICHELIN Guide includes two hotels awarded the prestigious Three MICHELIN Keys, eight hotels with Two Keys, and 23 hotels earning One Key. This fresh focus on Canadian accommodations positions the country as a global leader in high-end travel experiences.

Top Honours for Canada’s Iconic Hotels

Two Canadian properties have earned the highly coveted Three MICHELIN Key distinction, placing them among the most exceptional hotels in North America:

Fogo Island Inn – Located in Joe Batt’s Arm, Newfoundland and Labrador, this architectural masterpiece is world-renowned for its design and breathtaking location on a small island off the coast of Newfoundland. The hotel offers 29 rooms with panoramic ocean views and bespoke local experiences such as whale watching, iceberg tours, and cultural immersions. Fogo Island Inn’s modern interpretation of traditional maritime architecture makes it a standout on the global luxury travel scene.

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge – Tucked away in the remote wilderness of Tofino, British Columbia, this eco-luxury lodge offers 25 luxurious canvas tents furnished with handcrafted vintage furniture. Accessible only by seaplane or boat, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is the first property of its kind globally to receive Three MICHELIN Keys. Guests are treated to unparalleled nature experiences, from wildlife spotting to immersive ecological tours.

Two MICHELIN Key Hotels: A Blend of Luxury and Tradition

Eight Canadian hotels have been awarded Two MICHELIN Keys, a distinction for hotels that provide an elevated and immersive guest experience. Among the top honorees:

Manoir Hovey (North Hatley, Quebec) – A serene lakeside retreat in the Eastern Townships, this historic property is known for its intimate charm, world-class cuisine, and connection to nature.

Auberge Saint-Antoine (Quebec City, Quebec) – A boutique hotel set within three historic buildings dating back to the 1600s, this hotel offers guests a blend of rich history and contemporary luxury, with artifacts from Quebec’s past displayed throughout the property.

Four Seasons Hotel Toronto – Located in the upscale Yorkville neighborhood, this hotel offers modern elegance with five-star service, making it a favorite among discerning travelers.

Wickaninnish Inn (Tofino, British Columbia) – Known for its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, this coastal retreat seamlessly blends nature and luxury, providing guests with an unforgettable, intimate escape.

One MICHELIN Key Hotels: Boutique Charm and Urban Elegance

Twenty-three properties earned One MICHELIN Key distinctions, celebrating their dedication to hospitality, location, and distinctive charm. These hotels range from elegant city outposts to nature-focused retreats:

The Dorian, Autograph Collection (Calgary, Alberta) – A stylish newcomer offering modern luxury with a playful artistic touch, located in the heart of Calgary.

1 Hotel Toronto – A sustainably designed hotel emphasizing eco-luxury, 1 Hotel Toronto offers a tranquil oasis in the bustling urban environment, focusing on wellness and nature-inspired design.

Fairmont Banff Springs (Banff, Alberta) – Known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” this historic luxury resort offers breathtaking views of Banff National Park and an iconic Canadian experience.

Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver – A beacon of contemporary luxury in the city’s core, Shangri-La Vancouver stands out for its chic design and world-class service, making it a top choice for both business and leisure travelers.

Le Mount Stephen (Montreal, Quebec) – Set within a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion, this boutique hotel combines historic grandeur with modern sophistication, earning it a spot among Montreal’s top-tier accommodations.

Canadian Cities in the Spotlight

Canadian cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver are now home to an impressive number of MICHELIN Key hotels. Toronto’s growing portfolio includes luxury hotels like the Ace Hotel Toronto and Bisha Hotel, while Montreal boasts historically significant properties such as Le Place d’Armes Hotel & Suites and the contemporary Le Petit Hotel.

Elevating Canada’s Hospitality Scene

With the MICHELIN Guide’s introduction of Key distinctions, Canada’s hospitality sector is stepping into the spotlight, offering travelers an array of world-class accommodations across the country’s diverse landscapes. From the rugged wilderness of British Columbia to the historic charm of Quebec and the cosmopolitan allure of Toronto, Canada is solidifying its position as a premier destination for luxury and unique travel experiences.

As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, these MICHELIN-awarded properties are setting new standards for excellence, ensuring that guests receive more than just a place to stay—they experience a memorable journey filled with exceptional service, innovative design, and one-of-a-kind hospitality. Whether exploring the remote corners of the country or enjoying the cultural vibrancy of its cities, travelers can expect the highest level of service and a warm Canadian welcome at these MICHELIN Key hotels.