Benidorm, which was cancelled in 2018, is set to make a return to our screens with an 11th series in the works, and fans can actually stay at the hotel the show was filmed in
ITV’s hit comedy Benidorm, which scooped up several awards and captured hearts across the nation, was axed back in 2018. But now, it looks like the sun-soaked series is gearing up for a sensational comeback.
We previously reported that while an 11th series hasn’t been greenlit just yet, talks are underway and are going well.
They said: “Benidorm was adored by millions when it was suddenly cancelled. Fans will be thrilled to hear ITV wants to bring it back.
“An 11th series hasn’t been commissioned yet, but there’s major excitement building as early talks begin.”
The show’s cancellation came after a drop in viewers, with 4.3 million tuning in for the 10th series opener—a 400,000 decline from the previous year. ITV claimed the show had “run its course,” but the decision was met with disappointment by fans and the cast alike.
Sherrie Hewson, who played the formidable hotel manager Joyce Temple-Savage, dropped a massive hint on a podcast, declaring, “Benidorm is coming back,” sending fans into a frenzy of speculation.
The show boasted a stellar cast with the likes of Tim Healy donning frocks as the cross-dressing bartender Les, and Sheila Reid delivering zingers as Madge Harvey. And if rumours are to be believed, they could all be checking back into The Solana for the revival.
And for those die-hard Benidorm aficionados, we’ve done some digging and located the original filming hotspots – yes, you can actually book a stay at these places without breaking the bank. By lining up shots from the series with snaps from the hotel’s website, it’s clear that the iconic pool scenes were filmed at the Sol Pelicanos Ocas Hotel right in the bustling hub of Benidorm, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Meanwhile, the interior hotel scenes were shot in the Acuariam II Apartments, which offer a splendid view of the same pool area. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to peek at the reception or salon as these segments were filmed in ‘The Pink House’, a studio set situated opposite Benidorm Palace.
However, holidaymakers can book a stay at Hotel Sol Pelicanos/Ocas through Tui and Loveholidays, with the most affordable package priced at £299pp, flights included – that’s just shy of £43 per night.
As for amenities, the hotel holds a three-star rating on Tui and a 3.9-star rating on Tripadvisor. It features three massive outdoor pools for guests to enjoy, while the Levante beach is merely a five-minute stroll away.
Previous guests have left glowing reviews of their stay, with one stating: “Great value hotel. Rooms are basic but have everything you need. Everything is kept clean and tidy. Good selection of food, drinks and snacks on the all inclusive, particularly breakfast.”
Another guest praised: “The hotel is fantastic, so clean. The location is absolutely amazing, cannot fault it!” A third said: “I came for four days on all inclusive because it represented excellent value for money. From the minute I checked in to the minute I checked out everything was perfect. The hotel is immaculately clean in all areas ,all the staff members I encountered were friendly and helpful.”
However, not everyone was singing the hotel’s praises, with one disgruntled guest grumbling: “No tea or coffee facilities in the room which was a huge let down and no where to get a brew in the evening.”
Another claimed: “The noise levels in the rooms are awful. You can hear next doors conversations as clear as day while in the bathroom. Teeth brushing, toilet trips the lot! This put me off a bit.”
If you’re itching for a Benidorm getaway but fancy somewhere else, consider the Benidorm Celebrations hotel – an adults-only 3-star retreat with prices kicking off at £339pp.
For those with a taste for something a tad more upmarket, there’s the Climia Belroy, boasting 4 stars and available from £429pp. Just hop over to Loveholidays here.
And if you’re still keen on Sol Pelicanos Ocas, you can snag a spot through Loveholidays or Tui.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
