Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby is back for a sixth season, and as always, it’s a treasure trove of inspiration for agents.
The BBC documentary series has been inviting viewers inside the world’s finest properties since 2017, with past gems including London’s Shangri La, The Shard; Royal Mansour in Marrakech; and Glenapp Castle in Scotland.
Its upcoming season is set to be just as fascinating, starting on 12 September when chef Monica Galetti and TV barrister Rob Rinder return to check out seven exceptional hotels in what will be the show’s most eclectic lineup yet.
The pair will once again immerse themselves in each property to discover everything there is to know, including its unique past and present-day operations. From exploring secret areas to highlighting hidden details, it’s Sherlock Holmes level investigation – and we’re all for it.
To spark your excitement (and maybe some booking ideas), we’ve rounded up all the hotels to be featured on this year’s series.
InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland
The InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland may not be on your clients’ radar just yet, but get ready – it’s about to make a splash in the UK market.
Built on the site of an abandoned quarry in Songjiang, this architectural marvel has been popular with domestic Chinese tourists since its 2018 opening. The £200 million hotel took 12 years to build, and today, is best known for its unique ‘aqua theme’. There’s also a drone-operated waterfall light show every evening, which guests can enjoy from the comfort of their own balconies.
Six Senses Ibiza
Next up on Rinder and Galetti’s tour is Six Senses Ibiza, another IHG hotel. Located on the northern tip of the White Island, this luxury resort has been a wellness hub since its 2021 opening and today, offers a welcome retreat from the partying playas.
Viewers get to follow Rinder and Galetti as they explore some of the resort’s on-site experiences, which include cacao ceremonies, farm-to-table cooking, silent hikes and zero-waste workshops. They’ll also get a peak into its 1200 sqm spa, which boasts a hammam and massage catacombs that open out onto a botanical garden.
“The BBC coordinated closely with the hotel management and staff, carefully scheduling shoots to capture high-quality footage without interfering with the hotel’s normal rhythm,” Six Senses told TTG Luxury, before adding that Rinder and Galetti were surprised by how the team responded to challenges with “innovative solutions that were rarely visible to the public.”
Argos, Cappadocia, Turkey
The third episode sees Rinder and Galetti travel back in time to Argos in Cappadocia, Turkey. Built within 2000-year-old caves, this ancient property has been sensitively restored and today, operates as a luxury resort with warm hospitality.
Guests here can enjoy local cuisine overlooking the Pigeon Valley, take a ride in a hot air balloon over the lunar landscape, or head to the Suki lounge for a velvety Cognac. There’s even a ‘Splendid cave suite’ with a private indoor pool and rustic fireplace, if you needed any more reason to book.
The Hassler, Rome
In episode four, Rinder and Galetti head to Rome to visit The Hassler, one of Europe’s most celebrated ‘Grand Dame’ hotels. Their arrival coincides with a transitional time for the property, which has recently fallen into the management of twins Robertino and Veruschka Wirth, following the passing of their father and its late owner, Roberto E Wirth.
Just a stone’s throw from the Spanish Steps, The Hassler is perfectly located for travellers who want to be in the heart of Rome during their stay. Its presidential suite is the creme de la creme of the hotel’s 87 guest rooms, offering two panoramic terraces in Travertine marble, two large king rooms and one single room, and a kitchen with custom-designed fine bone china tableware.
The Datai Langkawi, Malaysia
Rinder and Galetti head to Malaysia for their next hotel investigation, checking into The Datai Langkawi to explore the luxury island resort’s relationship with its local ecology.
The hotel is home to resident naturalists and marine biologists, all of whom are determined to reduce its carbon footprint through a number of environmental measures and educating guests at their Nature Centre. There’s also a lush spa with ancient ramuan (Malay herbal) rituals, and four restaurants offering everything from French fine dining to delicious Thai food.
Gangtey Lodge, Bhutan
Next, Rinder and Galetti check into the Gangtey Lodge in Bhutan, one of the least-visited countries in the world.
Nestled in the remote Phobjikha Valley, this 12-room ‘farmhouse’ invites guests to immerse themselves in the local community during their stay. Rinder and Galletti waste no time in making themselves part of the team, helping with traditional hot stone baths, participating in archery sessions and visiting Buddhist monasteries.
Stanglwirt Hotel, Austria
Back in Europe, Rinder and Galletti touch down in the Alps to visit the Stanglwirt Hotel in Austria. Run by the same family for over 300 years, this Tyrolean sanctuary is today the world’s only organic farm which also has its own luxury hotel.
Guests can expect suites with Arolla pinewood and fireplaces, as well as a spa with the continent’s largest saltwater pool, a rock sauna and a waterfall grotto. There’s also ample choice for outdoor activities, including Lipizzaner horseback riding and even yodelling.
Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby Series 6 returns on 12 September. Episodes will air on BBC2 at 8pm, with InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland kicking off the series, followed by Six Senses Ibiza on 26 September.
