Tourism Minister Honours Hotels Included in MICHELIN Guide Hotels for Promoting Bulgaria's Reputation as a Destination

Tourism Minister Ilin Dimitrov presented awards to representatives of the nine Bulgarian hotels included in the MICHELIN Guide Hotels, recognizing their professionalism, outstanding quality of service and contribution to strengthening Bulgaria's reputation as a tourist destination, the Tourism Ministry's press centre said on Monday.

"I am proud that Bulgaria has nine hotels included in the MICHELIN selection, four of which have also been awarded a MICHELIN Key. This success has been achieved thanks to your work, without intervention or support from the State, which makes it all the more valuable. Good examples deserve to be highlighted, and success should not remain anonymous," Dimitrov said.

The Bulgarian hotels included in the MICHELIN Guide Hotels are Junó Hotel Sofia, InterContinental Sofia, Kashmir Wellness & Spa Hotel in Velingrad, AYA Estate Relais & Châteaux near Melnik, Sense Hotel Sofia, Oborishte 63, The Art Boutique Hotel, Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko, Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort, and Blu Bay Hotel Sozopol. The first four have also been awarded one MICHELIN Key each.

According to the Tourism Ministry, representatives of the hotels said the selection process is conducted independently, with inspectors visiting anonymously and without prior notice. They noted that MICHELIN recognizes establishments with a distinctive character, consistently high standards, excellent service and a strong connection to their destination.

"We need to tell the stories of these hotels and show what lies behind their success. In this way, we can encourage more businesses in the sector to invest in quality, character and guest experience, while increasing the number of Bulgarian properties recognized internationally," Dimitrov added.

The hoteliers emphasized the need for closer cooperation with municipalities, the tourism industry and the media to promote high-quality accommodation in Bulgaria. The Tourism Ministry said it would use its communication channels and upcoming international events to draw greater attention to the awarded hotels and the destinations they represent.