For many of us, the hotel swimming pool plays a big part in any holiday itinerary. From afternoons splashing around with the kids, to romantic couples cuddling up on sun loungers, the aquatic activities hotels offer can be the deciding factor when choosing a luxury hotel.
When it comes to luxury poolside experiences, these seven resorts take it above and beyond the standard for luxury seeking travelers.
1. Kata Rocks
Between two of the islands finest beaches, Kata and Kata Noi, Kata Rocks is one of Phuket’s most fashionable resorts designed to give the illusion that you are in fact on your very own super yacht adrift on the Andaman Sea. A minimalist presence throughout, the modernistic layout gives those who visit an entirely new luxury experience in Thailand. Kata Rocks’ apartment named Sky Villas combines the space and opulence of a modern villa, each coming with their own private infinity pool starting from 7 meters in length. Additionally within the public area of the resort, facilities extend to a stunning picturesque restaurant and a 35-metre swimming pool alongside a stylish poolside bar, creating the ultimate selfie setting.
2. Velaa Private Island
Velaa Private Island is a paradise replete with a curated selection of stylishly appointed luxury villas and offers which are nothing short of spectacular. An ultra-luxe haven for the world’s most discerning holidaymakers, Velaa Private Island is tucked away within the collection of islands that form the Noonu Atoll, elegantly positioned to overlook enchanting vistas of a cerulean ocean. The romantic pool residence is only accessible by boat and offers couples utmost privacy. Here as well as your very own over-water infinity pool you’ll find your very own spa treatment room, gym, and beach with its own palm tree and a devoted butler that will cater to your every want.
3. Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection
Domes of Elounda in Crete is a spectacular getaway whose awe inspiring views of the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean will take your breath away. Set on the jaw-dropping Cretan coastline, Domes of Elounda is truly magical – an effortless fusion of stylish surroundings, impeccable service and an extraordinary spa matched only by the stunning views over the Bay of Elounda and the enchanting island of Spinalonga. Domes of Elounda has 5 pools, excluding the private pools in certain suites and villas throughout the resort. Due to Domes of Elounda’s location on the side of a hill, all pools are infinity-pool style, overlooking the stunning natural Cretan surroundings.
4. Hurawalhi
Hurawalhi in the Maldives is unparalleled, extraordinary and utterly original. The environmentally innovative, over 18s-only property offers its own take on Paradise with the majority of rooms being home to totally private infinity pools, with views of nothing but the vast expanse of the open ocean. This is the Maldives redefined; a truly unique five-star resort experience, nestled amongst the spectacular coral reefs of Lhaviyani Atoll.
5. Manathai Surin Phuket
Located opposite a fishing village on Lamai Beach, Manathai Surin Phuket beachfront resort effortlessly blends an arresting colonial-inspired design with authentic cultural nuances. Step inside the hotel – and it’s a total sanctuary; with aromatic lotus ponds, delicate floral fragrance wafting inside and out and colourful handicrafts alongside plush silk fabrics contrasting against smooth dark wood, all inspired by Thai passions, textures and flavours. Adorning two beautifully tranquil swimming pools and with the option to have your own private plunge pool, the Manathai immerses its guests in exactly what it means to be Thai.
6. Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort
Located on a secluded and exclusive 800 metre beachfront, Phi Phi Village Island Beach Resort offers a true back-to-nature experience in 201 bungalows and hillside villas spread out across 70 acres of lush tropical gardens. The resort radiates an atmosphere of relaxation while, at all times, respecting the natural environment it is blessed to reside in. Having undergone a £3.5 million renovation, the resort boasts a brand new glimmering 25 metre beachfront infinity pool that allows Mother Nature do her work.
7. The Nai Harn
The Nai Harn offers the perfect blend of romance, adventure, indulgence and a genuine sense of heritage, perched above one of Thailand’s best beaches, ranged along a lush hillside at the southern tip of Phuket. Offering guest rooms at least as capacious as the generous terraces and suites best described as sublime, the Nai Harn has been completely redesigned to maximise its exceptional vistas. The stunning views that extend past the bay can be experienced from the beautifully positioned pool. The ultimate hub for relaxation, the poolside at the Nai Harn ticks every box for luxury.
