Michelin Key has unveiled its most ambitious hotel selection yet. Among the Nordic newcomers is an architectural masterpiece that hosted Globetrender's debut corporate retreat - now officially recognised among the world's most remarkable places to stay. Olivia Palamountain reports

The Michelin Guide has released its 2025 Global Michelin Keys Selection, recognising 2,457 exceptional hotels worldwide. This debut global selection establishes a new benchmark for hospitality excellence, with properties spanning six continents categorised as One-Key (1,742), Two-Key (572), or Three-Key (143) destinations.

North & Central America features 526 Key hotels, including the newly upgraded Wakax Hacienda in Tulum and Three-Key Nayara Springs in Costa Rica. Europe dominates with over 1,000 properties, led by France (203) and Italy (188), while the Nordic countries received their first-ever recognition with 38 properties.

The Nordic selection includes the One-Key Juvet Landscape Hotel near Ålesund, Norway - an architectural gem made famous by the film Ex Machina and the series Succession - which hosted Globetrender's first travel industry corporate retreat. With its spectacular glass-and-wood cabins set in pristine forest, the property exemplifies the unique experiences the Michelin Keys aim to celebrate.Other Nordic standouts include the Two-Key Walaker Hotel - Norway's oldest family-run hotel dating back to 1640—and Storfjord Hotel, a handcrafted log property blending traditional craftsmanship with panoramic fjord views.

Asia's selections expanded significantly with Asaba Ryokan in Japan upgraded to Three Keys and Ceylon Tea Trails in Sri Lanka earning top honours. The Middle East debuts with impressive selections including the Three-Key Atlantis The Royal in Dubai, while Africa's inaugural selection spans 11 countries, featuring exceptional properties such as Giraffe Manor in Kenya and La Mamounia in Morocco.

South America contributes 84 Key hotels across seven countries, with standouts including Hotel das Cataratas in Brazil and Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa in Chile. Oceania rounds out the collection with 63 properties, highlighted by the eco-luxury Three-Key resort The Brando in French Polynesia.The Michelin Guide also presented four special awards: Atlantis The Royal (Dubai) for Architecture & Design, Bürgenstock Resort (Switzerland) for Wellness, La Fiermontina Ocean (Morocco) as Local Gateway, and The Burman Hotel (Estonia) as Opening of the Year.

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guides, notes: "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."

All selections are now available on the Michelin Guide website and app, where travellers can make direct bookings while enjoying VIP perks and concierge services. With this comprehensive global selection, the Michelin Guide continues its 125-year tradition of guiding discerning travellers to extraordinary experiences around the world.