Top 10 Pools with a View

27/04/2015

We all love a good horizon pool or a private plunge pool to take a dip in after a long day of travelling, especially if the view along with it is to die for. We have all seen the photos of the grand pools such as the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore and the Hanging Gardens of Ubud in Bali, but what about those top notch pools at the smaller more boutique properties? Below are the picks our team at Crooked Compass have come up with from our travels across the globe.

1. La Residence, Franschhoek, South Africa
Overlooking lush vineyards, dramatic mountains and vivid purple lavender, the pool at La Residence has views to die for. Home to the likes of Elton John when he travels through South Africa, this pools’ views expand to infinity and beyond, soaking up the stunning winelands scenery that South Africa is so well known for.

La Residence
La Residence

 

2. The Terraces Boutique Apartments, Port Vila, Vanuatu
Perched on the hillside and peering down on the lagoon and casino, The Terraces Boutique Apartments not only offers private plunge pools allowing you to drink in the views, but also houses a larger horizon pool for all guests, with spectacular panorama vistas. The main pool also offers a food and drink service, so you wont need to leave your day bed or take your eyes off the view… apart from reading the drinks menu! **Please note this photo was taken POST Cyclone Pam. Vanuatu is open for business and is looking as beautiful as ever as you can see.

 The Terraces Boutique Apartments
The Terraces Boutique Apartments

 

3. Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa, Chile
Huge floor to ceiling windows frame what looks like the insides of a glossy National Geographic magazine. The views captured from the Tierra Patagonia Hotel and Spa are simply spectacular, and there is no better way to relax and enjoy the view than floating in the heated pool.

4. Memmo Alfama, Lisbon, Portugal

Boasting one of the best views of the old town of Lisbon, the stunning pool at the Memmo Alfama sure knows how to show you the best of the city from above! Although not heated, this pool is a refreshing relief after the heat of the day. What’s even better is that you can enjoy a full bar service while you absorb all that lies before you.

Memmo Alfama
Memmo Alfama

 

5. Velassaru, Maldives
Your private pool at Velassaru overhangs the waters edge as the turquoise lagoon below laps gently beneath you. Soothing vistas tempt you to discover the underwater world. Bubbling jets from the pool walls massage you as you watch the fish flitting below. Pure paradise.

 

6. Koonyum Range Retreat, Byron Bay, Australia
Located in the hinterland overlooking Byron Bay, Koonyum Range Retreat is home to this breathtaking 12m vanishing horizon pool. It is the perfect place for a champagne breakfast, as a spectacular sunrise paints the sky before you.

Koonyum Range Retreat
Koonyum Range Retreat

 

7. Belmond Hotel Caruso, Ravello, Italy
This architectural masterpiece at Belmond Hotel Caruso is set at the highest point above the town of Ravello. Seemingly suspended in the clouds it offers an unparalleled vista and breathtaking views of the Amalfi coastline below. As you float the rest of the world away, the concierge can bring you a pre-loaded Ipod with your favourite tunes, a fruit appetiser or even an Evian vaporiser!<

8. Earth Lodge, Sabi Sabi, South Africa

In a property where everything is made from the earth, Earth Lodge has a special place within many eco travellers hearts. For that little bit of extra luxury, all rooms house a private plunge pool that overlook an expansive waterhole, attracting hippos, birdlife and anything thirsty that may be wandering by. There is no fence between you and the waterhole, and elephants have been known to come and drink from the plunge pools.

Earth Lodge
Earth Lodge

 

9. Hotel Belvedere, Lake Como, Italy
Located just outside the bustling lakeside town of Bellagio, the Hotel Belvedere is home to a heated outdoor pool and spa, showcasing unbeatable views of Lake Como and the picturesque villages below.

Hotel Belvedere
Hotel Belvedere

 

10. The Cambrian, Swiss Alps
Whether you are here in the summer, or winter months when the peaks are snow capped, the heated pool at The Cambrian is sure to draw you in. Gaze over the spectacular valley below and absorb the view as you float off into another world. This is truly paradise on earth.

 

Looking for more Swimming Spots to include in your travels? Download and search the Crooked Compass Travel App for inspiration.