After months of anonymous visits, MICHELIN Guide inspectors have selected more than 20 new Key hotels across Australia, along with three promotions.
The Aussie properties have been named by the MICHELIN Guide in its 2026 Global MICHELIN Keys Selection, now available across the MICHELIN Guide’s platforms (The 2026 MICHELIN Key Hotels: A Guide to the Global Selection).
Sequoia Lodge, South Australia. Picture courtesy Sequoia Lodge
“This second global selection of the MICHELIN Keys reflects the extraordinary momentum driving the hospitality sector once again this year,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide.
“With nearly 470 newly distinguished establishments, we are witnessing a continuous upscaling of the offering, driven by even more creative and ambitious projects.
“All around the world, hoteliers are reinventing the stay experience through more immersive, personalised and experiential concepts.”
The guide has named 22 new Key hotels in Australia, bringing the total across the country to 54. Highlights include:
- Saffire Freycinet (promoted to Three MICHELIN Keys) is a sleek, contemporary retreat nestled among Tasmania’s rugged east coast bushland, beneath the Hazards mountains. Its 20 timber-lined suites, local design and tailored nature experiences create an indulgent escape where seclusion and the wilderness take centre stage.
- Southern Ocean Lodge (promoted to Three MICHELIN Keys) brings contemporary Australian design to the rugged beauty of Kangaroo Island, with 25 sea-facing rooms overlooking the Southern Ocean and surrounding wildlife. Guests can unwind in understated luxury or explore the island’s wild landscapes through tailored nature experiences, gourmet dining and spa treatments.
- Capella Sydney (promoted to Two MICHELIN Keys) transforms a heritage landmark near Circular Quay into a refined contemporary retreat, celebrating Australian Aboriginal culture through its art and design. Richly detailed rooms, a first-rate spa and destination dining combine heritage character with modern luxury.
- Sequoia Lodge (new addition: Two MICHELIN Keys) sits high above Adelaide Hills’ Piccadilly Valley, with 14 private suites designed to immerse guests in the surrounding landscape. From moon windows and spring-fed hot pools to native wildlife, Dreamtime storytelling and seasonal dining, the lodge offers a secluded escape rooted in nature and local culture.
Oceania’s 2026 selection adds 37 new Keys and promotions, bringing the region’s total to 92 Key hotels. The selection spans Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and French Polynesia, from remote island resorts to architectural gems and distinctive city hotels.
Find the full Global MICHELIN Key selection here: guide.michelin.com/en/hotels.
