Branson property kicks off new series of BBC luxury hotels series

Celebrity chef Monica Galetti was joined by new co-presenter Rob Rinder, who has replaced previous co-host Giles Coren, in the first episode of the new series which aired on Sunday night (6 August) on BBC2.

The pair visited Branson’s property south of Marrakech when they also explored local Berber hospitality, food and culture as the fifth series of the travel programme, which gives a behind-the-scenes look at unique luxury hotels around the world, kicked off.

Another seven properties will feature in the TV series in the coming weeks, including Joali in the Maldives, Norway’s Nusfjord Arctic Resort, Ceylon Tea Trails in Sri Lanka and South Africa’s Phinda Private Game Reserve.

There will also be episodes focusing on Borgo Egnazia in Puglia, Scotland’s Glenapp Castle and Hotel Hubertus in the Italian part of the Tyrol alpine region.

Rinder said: “These places aren’t just hotels. It’s what these places mean to their communities and for the guests that come that’s special. A hotel isn’t just a place people come to stay.

“Each hotel was so different and the whole point of the series is to explore not just luxury, but incredible places that although in the reach of the ultra-privilege, explore what they give back beyond the lobby.”

Meanwhile, Kasbah Tamadot has also announced the addition of six new two-bedroom riads, which are now bookable for travel from September 2024. The riads will be connected by a separate living area to cater for families and small groups. The property currently has 29 rooms and suites, including 11 Berber-style tents.