A whopping 26 South African hotels were recognised among the crème de la crème of global hospitality, receiving keys in the MICHELIN Guide’s inaugural Global MICHELIN Keys Selection, unveiled online and at an exclusive ceremony at Musée des Arts Décoratifs, in Paris (France).

Following the launch of MICHELIN Key distinctions in 15 top travel destinations last year, The MICHELIN Guide Inspectors scoured the world for hotels that meet The MICHELIN Guide’s highest standards of hospitality and quality. In total, 2,457 hotels have received One (1,742), Two (572) or Three (143) MICHELIN Keys across the globe.

“125 years after its creation as a guide for discerning travellers, The MICHELIN Guide is once again redefining excellence — this time in the world of hospitality. Just as MICHELIN Stars celebrate the world’s most exceptional restaurants, MICHELIN Keys now honour hotels that offer truly remarkable stays, where design, service, and location come together to create unforgettable moments. With the introduction of the MICHELIN Keys, the Guide establishes a new, global, and independent benchmark for outstanding hotel experiences”, says Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of The MICHELIN Guide.

“With their unique field expertise, MICHELIN Guide Inspectors have selected the finest properties from across the globe, reflecting the diversity and excellence of today’s hospitality landscape. Whether travellers seek iconic resorts, historic city hotels, or hidden gems off the beaten path, the MICHELIN Keys provide a trusted guide to discover, explore, and book truly memorable stays that inspire and delight.”

Just as Stars recognise the world’s finest culinary experiences, the MICHELIN Keys highlight the most outstanding stays within the Guide’s hotel selection. Carefully assessed by MICHELIN Guide Inspectors using five universal criteria, The Keys evaluate each hotel’s overall hospitality experience — beyond individual amenities — establishing a new and the first independent global benchmark for excellence in lodging.

One MICHELIN Key: a very special stay 

This is a true gem with its own character and personality. It may break the mould, offer something different, or simply be one of the best of its type. Service always goes the extra mile and provides significantly more than similarly priced establishments. 

Two MICHELIN Keys: an exceptional stay 

Somewhere truly unique and exceptional in every way, where a memorable experience is always guaranteed. A hotel of character, personality and charm that’s operated with obvious pride and considerable care. Eye-catching design or architecture, and a real sense of the locale make this an exceptional place to stay. 

Three MICHELIN Keys: an extraordinary stay 

It’s all about astonishment and indulgence here – this is the ultimate in comfort and service, style and elegance. It is one of the world’s most remarkable and extraordinary hotels and a destination for that trip of a lifetime. All the elements of truly great hospitality are here to ensure any stay will live long in the memory and hearts of travellers. 

The South African hotels that received 1 Key are: 

• One&Only Cape Town
• Steenberg Hotel
• The Cellars-Hohenort
• The Silo Hotel
• Le Quartier Francais
• Leeu Estates
• Leeu House
• Leeu House
• The Last Word Franschhoek
• Akademie Street Boutique Hotel and Guest House
• The Manor House at Fancourt
• Thanda Safari – Private Game Reserve
• Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff
• Park Hyatt Johannesburg
• Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa
• GweGwe Beach Lodge

The South African hotels that received 2 Keys are: 

• Cape Grace, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
• Ellerman House
• Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town
• Jabulani Safari
• Esiweni Luxury Safari Lodge
• Silvan Safari Lodge
• Kruger Shalati – The Train on The Bridge

The South African hotels that received 3 Keys are: 

• Londolozi Game Reserve 
• Royal Malewane

All MICHELIN Guide hotel recommendations are available for free on The MICHELIN Guide’s website and mobile app, where travellers can book their stays directly at the best market price. To enhance the guest experience, The MICHELIN Guide also offers travel experts’ service, providing personalised assistance before and during each stay.