The Blu Bay Hotel Sozopol
Five Bulgarian hotels have been awarded MICHELIN Keys in this year’s MICHELIN Guide Hotels selection: Juno Hotel Sofia and InterContinental Sofia in the capital, Kashmir Wellness & Spa Hotel in Velingrad, AYA Estate Relais & Chateaux near Melnik, and Blu Bay Hotel Sozopol, according to the website of Michelin, which published its 2026 selection on September 18.
According to Michelin, one Key signifies a “very special stay” — a hotel with its own character and individuality, where the service goes beyond what is expected for its category. The distinction differs from the conventional hotel star rating because it focuses on the guest’s overall experience.
The new addition to this year’s selection is Blu Bay Hotel Sozopol, which was established in 2017. In 2024, it was named “Best Five-Star Seaside Boutique Hotel” by the Bulgarian Hotel and Restaurant Association, while in 2025 it received three international awards from the World Luxury Hotel Awards.
A total of 12 Bulgarian hotels are included in the overall MICHELIN Guide selection. In addition to the five listed above, the selection also includes Sense Hotel Sofia, Oborishte 63 (The Art Boutique Hotel), Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko, Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort, Sea Sense in Sozopol, Ensana Aquahouse in Varna, and Wine and SPA Hotel Chukara.
Earlier this year, in a series of articles, the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) presented the Bulgarian hotels included in the MICHELIN Guide Hotels selection, which recognizes properties with distinctive character, consistent quality, a high level of service, and a clear connection to their destination. The nine accommodation establishments recognized in the 2025 selection received certificates from the Ministry of Tourism for their high level of professionalism, impeccable quality of services, and contribution to strengthening the reputation of Bulgaria as a destination.
In late 2025, Sofia officially received the opportunity to undergo a culinary inspection, a key first stage in the process of potentially being included in the MICHELIN selection.