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.

A fresh look for paradise at Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun

24 December 2025

Finding that perfect stretch of sand where turquoise water meets pristine white beach can feel like discovering paradise on earth. We believe holidays should be filled with these moments of pure bliss, where every detail is taken care of so you can simply relax and reconnect. That is exactly what you will find at Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun, a secluded, adults-only haven nestled on one of the most celebrated beaches in Mexico’s Riviera Maya. This resort has long been a favourite for those seeking a truly luxurious escape, and we are thrilled to share that it has recently undergone significant renovations, making the experience even more special. The team at Secrets Maroma has been busy refreshing its spaces to enhance the signature Unlimited-Luxury® experience. It is this commitment to constant improvement that allows us to recommend it with such confidence, knowing your stay will be nothing short of exceptional.

Discover the effortless luxury of Grecotel LUXME White

24 December 2025

Dreaming of a Greek escape where every detail is taken care of? At Grecotel LUXME White, the focus is on helping you create lasting memories, with every moment designed around your relaxation and happiness. As the showcase for ‘Luxury Made Easy®’, this resort blends attentive service with a relaxed, seaside atmosphere, so you feel genuinely cared for from the moment you arrive.

Your biggest Kenya safari questions – answered

24 December 2025

Dreaming of a safari in Kenya? You’re in for an unforgettable experience! To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve compiled expert tips and insights from our Travel Counsellors colleague Natalie, from the best time to visit and what to pack, to the amazing wildlife you can expect to see. Whether you’re dreaming of spotting the Big Five, exploring diverse landscapes, or unwinding on Kenya’s stunning coastline, this guide has everything you need to go on the safari of a lifetime.