Grace Santorini, Imerovigli, Greece
There is something that instinctively draws us to the water, as though it serves as a much-needed sanctuary for our senses. After all, the earliest life forms are believed to have emerged from the oceans, and the human body—like the earth’s surface—is around two-thirds water. This must explain why we’ve been building pools for recreation and relaxation even since the time of the ancient Greeks and Romans. But these days it’s not enough to simply have a rectangular hole of water in the ground surrounded by a few palms and deck chairs. Swimming pools are becoming architectural marvels in their own right with spectacular sophisticated designs coupled with incredible views….
Regardless of location—a city centre, a desert dune, or a private tropical isle—the heart of a hotel is often its swimming pool. This is where holidaymakers can truly unwind, relax and even socialise while getting some exercise simultaneously. A well-designed pool is almost as important as the hotel itself, and in many cases it is what draws guests to stay at a certain destination. Whether it is expansive infinity edges, sky high views or the feeling of being immersed in nature, luxury hotel pools are raising the bar on the water experience like never before. Here are some truly magnificent pools from around the world that are sure to dazzle and inspire for your next holiday destination…
Hanging Gardens Ubud, Ubud, Bali
If you have ever wondered what it is like for Tarzan to have a swim, this pool may give you a pretty good clue! This Orient-Express hotel offers a split-level infinity pool that is suspended high over the jungle giving you the unique, immersing feeling of literally swimming above the treetops and the valley. The pool comes lined with Batu Chandi volcanic stone and geometric walls of solidified volcanic ash to blend in perfectly with the surroundings. This striking bi-level pool was designed by the French architect Gordon Shaw who gave it an undulating shape that echoes the verdant terrain.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Water is a recurring theme throughout this sprawling 206-room desert resort, from the terra-cotta jars outside the entrance (traditionally provided by locals for travellers to quench their thirst) to the tranquil stream running through the arid grounds. This hotel’s swirling free-form pool tricks you into thinking that you are right in the midst of a true oasis with breathtaking infinite sand dunes of the Liwa Desert everywhere you look. The pool is one of the hotel’s defining features set among towering palm trees. You may even see their free roaming sand gazelles and Oryx while you do your morning laps…
The Oberoi Udailvilas, Udaipur, India
Built like a traditional Indian palace in the heart of romantic Rajasthan, the premier lakefront rooms here are ringed by a semiprivate moat-like swimming pool that reflects the regal architecture of the hotel. These stunning spa pools also overlook Lake Pichola against a dramatic backdrop of the Aravalli Hills. Perhaps not built for great laps, the pools are ideal for pure relaxation and some privacy. At night the charming pools are artfully lit up creating a magical setting fit for the modern day Maharajah.
One&Only Reethi Rah, Maldives
The private pools at this luxury hotel are simply to die for. Occupying their own stretch of sandy shore, these villas offer direct views of the ocean and access to a private beach of pristine, turquoise waters. The décor is utterly sleek and elegant using tropical wood and thatch exteriors and the private pools come with large verandas and external showers where you can easily have your own private pool party. We can only imagine how amazing the sunset would look like from this slice of paradise.
Grace Santorini, Imerovigli, Greece
The stylish, white minimalist pool at the Grace Santornini Hotel in Greece is a real jewel. Overlooking the Aegean and the Caldera, a swim here is pure tranquility and relaxation for the senses. Voted by “Condé Nast Traveler” as ‘one of the most beautiful pools in the world’, it is so picturesque to simply look at and marvel, not to mention the incredible sunset view. At night the party scene comes to life at the pool’s large terrace where it becomes a hot spot to hang out and party.
Le Gray, Beirut, Lebanon
The gorgeous infinity pool in Le Gray hotel in Lebanon puts you literally in the heart of the urban action. The pool's location allows for an enthralling view of the Beirut skyline giving you the sensation of floating above the city along with great views of Mount Lebanon. At nighttime – in true Beirut style – it becomes an after-hours joint for the young and hip crowd in an ultra lounge concept: the stylish purple glass pool is beautifully lit up while guests enjoy innovative cocktails, sushi platters and a DJ spinning tunes on the terrace. It’s the perfect place to unwind and spend those balmy summer nights…
