On September 12, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide revealed the latest additions to its list of One, Two and Three Key hotels throughout the United States.
This is the second-ever announcement of MICHELIN Keys in the U.S., adding selections to a list that previously only included hotels from select locations. This list is the culmination of four years of a comprehensive refresh of MICHELIN’s hotel selection. The Guide now includes over 5,000 hotels and resorts worldwide.
The hotels are each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting.
Like those well-known stars that indicate the best culinary experiences, these MICHELIN Keys reveal the most outstanding stays. They are a benchmark for travelers, qualifying each hotel experience in broader terms than simple amenities. Here’s how they work:
One MICHELIN Key: a very special stay
“This is a true gem with its own character and personality. It may break the mold, offer something different or 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 guaranteed. A hotel of character, personality and charm operated with 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
“Astonishment and indulgence – this is the ultimate spot for comfort, service, style and elegance. It is one of the world’s most remarkable and extraordinary hotels and a destination in itself for that trip of a lifetime. All the elements of truly great hospitality are here.”
Now, onto the news! Seven Arizona hotels and resorts received MICHELIN Keys this year:
Canyon Ranch Tucson received a Three Key recognition; Ambiente, A Landscape Hotel in Sedona received a Two Key recognition; and Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale, Royal Palms Resort and Spa, The Global Ambassador, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North and El Portal Sedona received One Key.
“We greatly appreciate this recognition from the MICHELIN Guide, awarding Canyon Ranch’s resort in Tucson the highest rating of Three Keys. Canyon Ranch has three resort properties across the country, and Michelin has recognized all of them this year. However, Tucson is the original, and we’re particularly proud of it,” CEO Mark Rivers said. “This is Canyon Ranch’s 45th year of operation in Tucson, and it’s exciting to be recognized for being just as relevant today as when we started in 1979 as one of the original wellness resorts in America.”
A pillar in the Phoenix and Scottsdale communities for over 75 years, Royal Palms Resort and Spa is proud to celebrate its One Key recognition from MICHELIN Guide’s inaugural Key Hotel list. Awarding the very most prestigious hotels across the United States, Royal Palms is one of just two hotels to be recognized in Phoenix. This accolade joins the hotel’s trophy case of top-tier awards spanning the hospitality industry, including its AAA Four Diamond Award and Historic Hotels of America Annual Awards of Excellence recognitions.
El Portal Resort in Sedona offers a luxurious retreat in the heart of the stunning red rock landscape. This boutique resort features handcrafted adobe architecture and upscale, rustic interiors that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Guests can indulge in personalized service and exclusive amenities, including a heated outdoor pool and a tranquil garden area. El Portal’s location provides easy access to Sedona’s renowned hiking trails and breathtaking vistas, making it a perfect haven for relaxation and adventure.
The next MICHELIN Keys will be announced in Thailand on September 25, Great Britain and Ireland on October 1, and in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland on October 9, 2024. To view the full list, visit guide.michelin.com.
