Discover the MICHELIN Key: A New Standard in Luxury Hospitality
- Fernanda Matsuoka
- Oct 31
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Launched globally in 2025, the MICHELIN Key is the hotel counterpart to the MICHELIN Star. Inspectors award One, Two, or Three Keys to properties that deliver distinctly memorable stays. The criteria focus on character, excellence in hospitality, quality and consistency of design, and how a hotel connects guests to its locale.
Why This Matters for Advisors
The MICHELIN Key helps set guest expectations with an independent benchmark. Three Keys signal an extraordinary stay. Two Keys promise an exceptional experience. One Key marks a very special address with personality and care. This system offers a clean way to frame choices for clients who prioritize culture, craft, and service in the Lowlands.
Netherlands: Who Won What
Michelin’s Dutch rollout recognized 17 hotels in total:
Three Keys
De L’Europe Amsterdam.
Two Keys
Rosewood Amsterdam.
Hotel TwentySeven Amsterdam.
Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam.
Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Maurits at the Park, Amsterdam.
Château Neercanne, Maastricht.
One Key
Pulitzer Amsterdam.
The Dylan Amsterdam.
Soho House Amsterdam.
The Craftsmen, Amsterdam.
Central Park, Voorburg.
Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Ter Borch, Zwolle.
Château St. Gerlach, Valkenburg.
Mooirivier, Dalfsen.
De Plesman Hotel, The Hague.
Van Oys Maastricht Retreat, Maastricht.
Belgium: Debut Highlights
Michelin’s Belgium rollout recognized 6 hotels in total:
Two Keys
Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp.
Juliana Hotel Brussels.
One Key
Hôtel Amigo, Brussels.
Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof, Ghent.
Hotel Van Cleef, Bruges.
1898 The Post, Ghent.
A Toast to Excellence
A toast to every MICHELIN Key holder across the Lowlands! Gefeliciteerd to the teams elevating stays in the Netherlands and Belgium. Are you ready to place clients in these exquisite rooms with the right benefits and insider touches? Share your dates and wish list, and Sapiens will craft the perfect booking: operations@sapiens-travel.com.
The Experience of Luxury Travel
When it comes to luxury travel, the experience is everything. Each hotel recognized by the MICHELIN Key offers more than just a place to stay; they provide an immersive experience that connects guests to the culture and charm of their surroundings. Imagine sipping a fine wine while overlooking the canals of Amsterdam or enjoying a gourmet meal crafted from local ingredients in a historic setting. These are the moments that create lasting memories.
The Importance of Personalization
In the luxury travel sector, personalization is key. Clients expect tailored experiences that cater to their unique preferences and desires. By choosing hotels that have earned the MICHELIN Key, advisors can ensure their clients receive exceptional service and attention to detail. It's not just about booking a room; it's about curating an unforgettable journey.
Building Trust with Clients
As luxury travel advisors, building trust with clients is crucial. The MICHELIN Key serves as a reliable indicator of quality. When clients see that a hotel has been awarded Keys, they can feel confident in their choice. This trust not only enhances the client experience but also strengthens the advisor-client relationship.
Expanding Your Offerings
By incorporating MICHELIN Key hotels into your portfolio, you can expand your offerings and attract a discerning clientele. These properties are not just places to stay; they are destinations in their own right. They provide unique experiences that can elevate your clients' travels to new heights.
Conclusion: Embrace the MICHELIN Key
In conclusion, the MICHELIN Key represents a new standard in luxury hospitality. It offers a clear framework for advisors to guide their clients toward exceptional experiences. As we celebrate the winners in the Netherlands and Belgium, let's embrace this opportunity to elevate our offerings and enhance our clients' journeys. Together, we can create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.


