The Michelin Guide has unveiled its 2026 Global Michelin Keys Selection, awarding 22 newly recognised Key hotels in Australia and bringing the country’s total to 54.
The announcement forms part of a global expansion that has added 470 hotels across 79 destinations – including 10 destinations receiving the distinction for the first time – lifting the worldwide selection to 2,832 Michelin Key hotels: 155 Three-Key, 657 Two-Key and 2,020 One-Key properties.
Three Australian properties were promoted within the selection. Tasmania’s Saffire Freycinet and Kangaroo Island’s Southern Ocean Lodge both moved up to Three Michelin Keys, while Sydney’s Capella Sydney was promoted to Two Keys.
Catherine Malouf, co-owner of The Calile Hotel said that it was an honour to be recognised for a second year.
“What makes this recognition from MICHELIN so meaningful is its appreciation of a hotel with its individual character and guest experience. As a family, we’ve always wanted The Calile to feel true to Brisbane, with warm hospitality, thoughtful design, and a strong connection to our community and guests” she said.
Said The Calile Hotel general manager Chris Kemlo: “To be awarded an accolade by such a respected global organisation is a significant confirmation of our continued commitment to the quality experiences and service we offer, and how that translates to elevating and exceeding the guest experience. We are proud to be recognised for the second consecutive year for the outstanding accomplishment of our team, our collaborators and our partners.”
Adelaide Hills newcomer Sequoia Lodge entered the selection directly at Two Keys. Hamilton Island’s qualia has retained it’s one key, and The Sunday’s received it’s first.
A further 20 Australian properties were awarded One Key for the first time, including Halcyon House, The Langham Melbourne, InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach by IHG, Mount Lofty House & Estate Adelaide Hills and The Porter House Hotel Sydney – MGallery.
Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guide, said the expanded selection reflected strong momentum in the hospitality sector, driven by independent and boutique hoteliers alongside investment from major international groups.
“This second global selection of the Michelin Keys reflects the extraordinary momentum driving the hospitality sector once again this year,” Poullennec said.
Across the wider Oceania region – spanning Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and French Polynesia – the 2026 selection added 37 new Keys and promotions, bringing the region’s total to 92 Key hotels. In New Zealand, Rosewood Matakauri in Queenstown moved from One to Two Keys.
The Michelin Key, introduced in 2024 as the hotel equivalent of the Michelin Star, is awarded across three tiers: One Key for “a very special stay”, Two Keys for “an exceptional stay” and Three Keys for “an extraordinary stay”.
Selections are made by Michelin Guide inspectors who travel anonymously.
