Several Vancouver Island hotels have received the highest honour of their industry, having Michelin Keys being awarded to them for their outstanding service and amenities.
Similarly to how restaurants earn Michelin Stars, hotels are awarded Michelin Keys when the level of service is of a certain degree that warrants recognition.
Both of these accolades began as part of the Michelin Guide, which is published annually by the French tire company Michelin.
Michelin Stars were first awarded in 1926, whereas the Michelin Key guidebook was only launched in 2024.
In 2025, Michelin awarded 29 Canadian hotels with one-Michelin Key, seven hotels with two-Michelin Keys and just two hotels with three-Michelin Keys.
Of the 38 Canadian hotels recognized, four are on Vancouver Island, and two operate right here in Victoria.
The Fairmont Empress and the Magnolia Hotel & Spa in downtown Victoria were each honoured with one-Michelin Key apiece.
Both of these hotels also received the same honour in last year’s inaugural Michelin Key list.
“We are beyond honoured to be awarded a One Michelin Key for the second consecutive year—and one of the select few hotels on Vancouver Island to receive this distinction,” said Dan McGowan, general manager of the Fairmont Empress Hotel.
“Receiving a key again is such an honour and a true reflection of our magnificent hotel and colleagues.”
Additionally, the Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino was awarded one-Michelin Key. This is a slight downgrade from the two-Michelin Keys the inn was awarded last year.
Lastly, and most impressively, the renowned Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge in Tofino was one of just two hotels in all of Canada to earn three-Michelin Keys.
This accommodation is esteemed throughout North America and the world, and has topped numerous lists of best places to stay since its opening in May 2021.
The lodge is surrounded by wilderness and quiet, allowing those who stay here to rest entirely, with access to a world-class spa and renowned farm-to-table Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine.
Rates begin at $2,950 per night at the Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge.
Check out the full Michelin Key list online.
