By Bethany Gavaghan

Copyright walesonline

A new way of recognising the best hotels has been introduced, and three properties in Wales have now been named in The MICHELIN Guide as must-visit destinations. The guide now features over 7,000 hotels worldwide, all assessed by experts across five categories: architecture and interior design, overall personality and character, quality and consistency of service, value for money, and contribution to the local area. On Tuesday, October 8, inspectors also revealed the new “Key” distinctions, which, like Michelin Stars for restaurants, highlight the most outstanding hotels in the UK and Ireland. The selection for Great Britain and Ireland includes 14 Three-Key hotels, 43 Two-Key hotels and 82 One-Key hotels, with 19 hotels newly awarded for 2025. The three Welsh hotels named in the guide are Pale Hall Hotel in Llandderfel, Penmaenuchaf in Dolgellau, and Grove of Narberth in Narberth, all of which have been awarded One Key. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What’s On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Pale Hall, located in Bala is an 18-room Victorian mansion, described by our own travel writer, Portia Jones, as the “perfect setting for a swanky escape” on the edge of Eryri National Park. With access to plenty of outdoor activities and striking views, it has certainly made a name for itself as being possibly the most impressive place to stay in Wales. What the MICHELIN Guide says: “Set on 15 acres of riverside parkland in the Dee Valley, at the edge of the vast and wild Snowdonia National Park, Palé Hall is nothing if not secluded — a situation that only heightens the effect of its high Victorian opulence. Over the course of its colorful history it’s played host to guests no less eminent than Winston Churchill and Queen Victoria herself. And in its current incarnation as a luxury hotel it’s among the finest in Great Britain. “The rooms and suites in the original house retain their classic style, while the Garden Suites, in the estate’s renovated coach house, take on a more contemporary aspect. All of them are plush as can be, and mix modern comforts with classic touches; the Victoria Room still contains the house’s original bathtub. “Palé Hall’s smallish size allows for an unusually high standard of service, though the atmosphere is not an excessively formal one by any means. Leisure pursuits range from garden walks to mountain climbing and everything in between; lunch, tea, and dinner are served in the Henry Robertson Dining Room.” The 14-bedroom Penmaenuchaf Hall hotel near Dolgellau has had a face lift since going on the market in 2022. Bought by the Seren group, it has definitely lived up to its promise of becoming one of the most luxurious stays in the country now with its recent recognition, and is set among beautiful scenery, perched high above the Mawddach estuary at the foot of the rugged Cadair Idris. What the MICHELIN Guide says: “To those not fluent in Welsh its name might be a mouthful, but that’s the only difficult thing about Penmaenuchaf. “This Victorian country-house hotel is set on the south side of Snowdonia National Park, and the genteel cosiness of its interiors is a fine complement to the rugged beauty of the landscape. “The rooms have been updated and look fresh as can be, though they remain antique in their style; some include fireplaces, Jacuzzis, or balconies, and all have views of the verdant surroundings.” The Grove of Narbeth, which is an 18th-century country house, has repeatedly been recognised as one of the best five-star hotels in the UK. Nestled in the heart of Pembrokeshire , this thoughtfully designed stay has different types of suites to suit your budget, and stunning countryside views. What the MICHELIN Guide says: “Set in 26 beautiful, rural acres, the Grove comprises a 17C property with Victorian and Arts & Crafts additions, a 15C longhouse and several cottages. “Inside, original features blend with designer furnishings; bedrooms are luxurious and service is delightful. The Artisan Rooms, with its wicker wall, serves modern classics. The Fernery offers more sophisticated fare.” To view the full list of MICHELIN Key hotels, you can check out the list here.