The best swimming pools in the world

11 July 2025

Imagine the sheer delight of dipping into a crystal-clear pool, the sun glistening off the water as you take in breathtaking views. An unforgettable swimming pool can be among the highlights of your holiday, so we’ve rounded up some of our favourites, whether you’re looking for somewhere to cool down after seeing the sights or want a tranquil spot where you can relax and unwind.

Kapama Private Game Reserve, South Africa

A beautiful infinity pool overlooks a watering hole in the highly regarded River Lodge Spa, the largest of the Kapama camps, with its five charming luxury lodges and the option of romantic sleep-outs. When you’re not busy relaxing, more than 40 species of mammals, including the Big Five, can be seen during twice-daily guided game drives and after-breakfast bush walks.

One&Only One Za'abeel, Dubai

Opened in January 2024, this vertical urban resort includes the world’s longest cantilever, between its towers – and across this cantilever, the UAE’s longest infinity pool unfurls a spectacular 27 storeys above the city. Bathed in year-round sunshine, it’s part of a pool club that is one of the best spots in Dubai for relaxing, socialising, and celebrating. Luxurious cabanas, sunken seating areas, and cushioned day beds encourage you to linger for as long as possible.

Alila Ubud, Bali

A sublime 25-metre infinity pool with valley views is the centrepiece of this hillside retreat high above the Ayung River, with thatched-roof rooms and villas seeming to float on stilts over a ravine. It's also much-loved for its holistic spa offering locally inspired treatments such as the lulur body scrub, an ancient remedy originating from the rice farmers of Bali.

Daios Cove, Crete

This chic property in a secluded bay features a heated seawater infinity pool with cove views and a kids’ area, plus two indoor seawater pools in its fabulous spa. Accommodation itself includes rooms, suites, and secluded villas with up to three bedrooms and their own pools. But Daios Cove also encourages guests to explore the island by biking or hiking in the mountains or hopping aboard a thrilling boat ride around the coast.

Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Maldives

An indulgent infinity pool with weekly pool parties sits at the heart of this barefoot resort in the remote South Nilandhe/Dhaalu Atoll, although all its 125 airy beach and water villas and suites come with their own freshwater plunge or swimming pool too. Other big draws include an overwater spa with hydrotherapy pools, snorkelling on the house reef, kayaking, sunset cruises, and cultural excursions.

Amangiri, Utah, USA

This secluded resort in Canyon Point is built around a central heated pool curving around an escarpment of a 165-million-year-old Aeolian sandstone rock to blend in with its astonishing desert surroundings. Divided into 34 modernist suites and its satellite Camp Sarika, with ten tented pavilions, Amangiri is perfect for both peaceful desert retreats and adrenaline-fuelled adventures in untouched red-rock country over 900 acres of the Colorado Plateau.

To book your holiday at one of these properties with remarkable pools, call your Travel Counsellor today.

Experience Thailand’s island luxury, redefined

29 May 2026

Thailand has no shortage of exceptional beach resorts, but two properties stand out for very different reasons. On Koh Samui's quieter west coast, InterContinental Koh Samui Resort pairs sweeping views across the Gulf of Thailand with award-winning service and a setting that has long been associated with luxury travel. Meanwhile, Six Senses Yao Noi places guests among the dramatic limestone formations of Phang Nga Bay, where private pool villas, wellness experiences, and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape take centre stage. Together, they offer two distinct ways to experience Thailand's islands.

5 of the best beaches in Spain to visit this summer

29 May 2026

Spain might be famous for its lively costas and sun-soaked islands, but beyond the well-known beach resorts lies another side to the country’s coastline - one filled with hidden coves, powder-soft sand, and impossibly turquoise water that could easily be mistaken for the Caribbean. Whether you’re dreaming of lazy beach days, dramatic coastal scenery, or discovering somewhere that still feels like a hidden gem, these Spanish shores deserve a place on your travel wish list.

Five reasons our award-winning holidays are truly unique

06 May 2026

Travel is not just about visiting new places; it's about creating lasting memories, immersing yourself in new cultures, and expanding your perspective on the world. Here at Travel Counsellors, we're passionate about delivering exceptional care and tailored travel experiences that you'll cherish forever - it's why we've been awarded a King’s Award for Enterprise 2026 in Innovation. Whether you're itching to explore quaint villages in Italy, indulge in the luxurious spirit of Dubai, or seek an unforgettable adventure in South Africa, we believe we're the perfect companion for your travel desires.