The best swimming pools in the world

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.

AMOH Rhodes is raising the bar for Greek island stays

24 April 2026

Opening in spring 2026, AMOH, A Luxury Collection Resort, Rhodes is set on a private peninsula near Lindos, with wide views across the Mediterranean and direct access to two sandy coves. It’s designed as a place to slow down and spend time well, whether that’s with family, a partner, or simply switching off for a few days. The focus is on space, privacy, and a strong sense of place, rather than overcomplicating the experience.

Spain is even better outside the summer months

24 April 2026

Spain in summer often means busy resorts, packed city centres, and temperatures that can make even short walks feel like hard work. Visiting in spring or autumn changes the pace completely. Days are still warm and bright, but without the intensity, which makes it far easier to enjoy everything from sightseeing to long, relaxed meals outdoors. You will also notice fewer queues at major attractions, more availability at popular hotels, and a general sense that you can take your time rather than plan everything around the crowds.

Beyond the beaches of Nassau & Paradise Island

24 April 2026

Nassau & Paradise Island are often associated with their beaches, but there’s much more to the destination than a typical sun holiday. It combines history, food, activities, and events in a way that makes it easy to build a varied itinerary. In 2026, there are even more reasons to visit, including the Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival at Baha Mar from 21st to 25th October.

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