Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby

On a small island in French Polynesia, once owned by film icon Marlon, resides one of the world's most luxurious eco-resorts: The Brando. With some guests paying an eye-watering £11K a night they expect 5 star luxury most of us can only dream of. Giles and Monica discover what it takes to satisfy the rich and famous while protecting the delicate ecosystem and marine life that surrounds the resort.

Built to resemble an ancient fort and situated 2,000 meters above sea level on the rim of a stunning canyon vista, Oman's Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar is the highest five-star hotel in the Middle East. Giles and Monica discover how the resort makes the most of its location, sending thrill seeking guests on a nerve-shredding mountain zip-wire, then recovering in one of the hotel’s 34 luxury pools.

If your idea of the perfect holiday is unfettered hedonism then look away now. The Grand Resort in the foothills of the Swiss Alps is here to make you healthy in the most luxurious way possible. They offer spas, sport and even surgery, if you need a little nip and tuck. Giles and Monica experience fine dining that boasts less than 600 calories and the hotel’s 30 varieties of mineral water.

For 800 years Ashford castle has dominated the skyline over this part of Ireland. Its fortunes have been mixed, but a recent £50 million cash injection intends to make it one of the most opulent hotels on the planet. Guests are drenched in Irish charm as they gulp down oysters, partake in some shooting or luxuriate on their four-poster beds. Giles and Monica try to keep the occupants happy.

Built on the elevator shaft of a 90-year-old grain container, The Silo promises a unique industrial-chic experience for the discerning city break patron. This art-themed hotel features chic design aspects such as bespoke windows that cost thousands to install and, as Giles and Monica discover, a great deal of sweat to maintain. Guests are oblivious as they enjoy the hotel’s 14 varieties of gin.

If you’re the luxury traveller who has bedded down at every fancy spa and sun-dappled resort and are looking for something different, then welcome to Vira Vira. The resort overlooks an actual active volcano which regularly spews ash and larva. Monica and Giles use the hotel’s helicopter to take a closer look at this Andes located wonderland, then prepare once-in-a-lifetime meals for the guests.

Think of luxury winter tourism and you think of St Moritz. The swanky Kulm Hotel caters to all things cold and posh. The grandeur of this Alpine resort’s history is maintained, as it offers glamorous delights to those who wish to ski in the fanciest way possible. Giles and Monica take to the slopes in style, while enjoying the hotel’s bespoke brand of whisky and indulging in some truffle fondue.