A Finger Lakes hotel noted as "contemporary classic and quiet" recently received Michelin Guide recognition . The Inns of Aurora in Aurora received a One Key designation, which is considered "a very special stay," along with seven other upstate New York hotels and one on Long Island.
The Michelin Guide, compiled by the tire manufacturing company, was conceived as a travel guidebook that pointed out stops along roads, such as restaurants; the idea was encouraging people to take more road trips would increase the demand for tires. It began awarding stars to restaurants in Europe in 1926.
"We are humbled and deeply grateful to both our treasured guests and Michelin for this recognition," Alex Schloop, Inns of Aurora director of marketing and creative director, said. "It is an honor to bring national attention to Aurora and the Finger Lakes — our passionate, hard-working team could not be more proud."
Here's what to know about the Inns of Aurora and others that made the list.
Why the Inns of Aurora was picked
The Inns of Aurora , located at 391 Main St. in Aurora, features 55 rooms across five historic inns on the shores of Cayuga Lake. Built between 1833 and 1909 and restored between 2003 and 2019, the inns — Aurora Inn, E.B. Morgan House, Rowland House, Zabriskie House and Wallcourt Hall — have varying styles and several food options, including the Village Market, Fargo Bar & Grill, 1833 Kitchen & Bar and demonstration kitchen Aurora Cook!.
"The comforts throughout are high-end, but not flashy about it - as plush as it is, there's nothing gaudy or opulent about these inns," the Michelin Guide said.
Sustainability is also abundant as the inns use renewable energy, energy-efficient heating and cooling and energy-efficient lighting, according to the Michelin Guide. Produce is sourced from local farms, staff, which is hired locally with fair wages, benefits and advancement, is trained in sustainability best practices and local cultural heritage and the inns restore and protect natural ecosystems and wildlife.
What are Michelin Keys?
The Michelin Key recognizes the best hotels in the world, just as the Michelin Star does for restaurants.
Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide, stated the Michelin Key "is a clear, reliable indication for travelers" that a hotel is exceptional.
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What are the three Michelin star keys?
There are three tiers of recognition in the program. One Key, Two Keys and Three Keys.
A One Key hotel is "a very special stay" that the Michelin Guide considers "a true gem with its own character and personality" and offers a more outstanding experience than similarly priced accommodations.
A Two Key hotel is "an exceptional stay" that consistently delivers memorable experiences. These hotels are renowned for "character, personality and charm" and "operated with obvious pride and considerable care."
A Three Key hotel is "an extraordinary stay" and represents the highest standard of comfort, service and luxury. Further, Michelin deems them destinations within a destination, where "all the elements of truly great hospitality are here to ensure any stay will live long in the memory and hearts of travelers."
How does a hotel get a Michelin key?
All hotels must meet these five criteria to receive a Michelin Key:
- Function as a destination that contributes to the local experience.
- Excellence in architecture and interior design.
- Consistent quality of service, comfort and maintenance.
- Singularity reflecting the personality of the establishment and its unique character.
- Consistency between the quality of the experience and the price paid.
Find out who made the list: Two upstate NY hotels named among best in the world
Which other hotels received recent Michelin Guide recognition?
In addition to the Inns of Aurora, eight other New York hotels recently received One Key awards on the Michelin Guide. Here's who else made the list:
Emily Barnes reports on consumer-related issues for the USA TODAY Network’s NY-Connect Team, focusing on scam and recall-related topics. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @byemilybarnes . Get in touch at ebarnes@gannett.com .
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: These are the best hotels in NY, according to Michelin Guide
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