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.

The best swimming pools in the world

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 long-haul river cruising with Riviera Travel

Experience long-haul river cruising with Riviera Travel

27 February 2026

Long-haul travel is no longer just about ticking off landmarks; it’s about seeing a destination properly, with the right balance of exploration and downtime. That’s exactly where Riviera Travel’s river cruise and tour combinations come into their own. These itineraries begin with expertly guided touring in some of Asia’s most iconic cities, before transitioning to a river cruise where the pace softens and everything is seamlessly organised for you. For travellers who want depth without the hassle of planning every detail, it’s a smart way to explore further afield.

Stay at a landmark address on Crete’s coast

Stay at a landmark address on Crete’s coast

27 February 2026

Set along the north-eastern shoreline of Crete, Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas was the first luxury hotel to open in Elounda and remains one of its most established names. As a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, it delivers a level of quality and consistency that seasoned travellers expect, while staying true to its Greek roots. The focus here is on understated luxury, experienced staff, and service that feels attentive without being intrusive.

Top 5 glowcation destinations that’ll revive your soul

Top 5 glowcation destinations that’ll revive your soul

27 February 2026

Set along the north-eastern shoreline of Crete, Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas was the first luxury hotel to open in Elounda and remains one of its most established names. As a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, it delivers a level of quality and consistency that seasoned travellers expect, while staying true to its Greek roots. The focus here is on understated luxury, experienced staff, and service that feels attentive without being intrusive.

Show more