Before you plan your next vacation to France, take a look at what Michelin has to say. The keys have been unleashed in the inaugural ranking of Michelin Keys for France. The guide features a whopping 600 hotels out of which the hawk-eyed Michelin inspectors have bestowed 189 places in the nation with one, two, or three key emblems. It is very similar to the Forbes Travel Guide that had the sector of luxury hospitality in a chokehold with its exacting standards, unparalleled luxury, and flawless service.
The star ratings are replaced by Keys in the Michelin method. Michelin already has the world following their expert gastronomic stars that unravel the best of food and beverage options around the globe. The Keys do the same for luxury hotels, putting the talents of the hospitality professionals to the test and setting a new standard for excellence in the hotel industry. Of the 189 hotels awarded Michelin Keys in the guide, only 24 got Three Michelin Keys, 38 received Two Michelin Keys, and 127 earned One Michelin Key, per Bloomberg.
The City of light that will soon be hosting the Olympic Games 2024 in July witnessed some winners in the form of the exceptional Four Seasons George V owing to its unmatched, palatial suites and a spa that leaves visitors captivated like nothing else in the French capital. The fact that the lavish property houses three Michelin-starred restaurants only helps in sealing the deal. Other Parisian properties like the Cheval Blanc Paris, Airelles Château de Versailles – Le Grand Contrôle, and château-hotel Saint James Paris won the best award of the lot – Three Michelin Keys. Among unforgettable country accommodations, Lafauri-Peyraguey and Chateau de la Gaude earned two keys and boutique hotels like the Hôtel Le Ballu, La Fantaisie, and Les Bains earned one key owing to character and an unforgettable experience.
“What really counts for us is the experience,” said Gwendal Poullennec, the international director of the Michelin Guide, in an interview. “It has to be memorable and singular in a way that will give people a feel for local character.” Good news for people planning their vacations is that after France, the Michelin Keys will be announced in the United States and Spain at the end of the month on April 24 and 29 respectively. Come May 7th, the keys will open luxurious doors to Italy, and Tokyo on July 4th with other destinations following suit.
