There was a time when a swimming pool was just a body of water in which to exercise, but in recent years, exclusive and luxury hotel builders seem to have been playing a game of one-upmanship against one another in a race to create the most amazing swimming pool imaginable.
Now personally, gimmicks aside, I think a serene swimming experience depends a lot on the surroundings, so in this post I have picked out 5 incredible hotel swimming pools with simply breathtaking views to help with your relaxation.
Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
so, this is the pool for you. The massive infinity pool at the luxurious Marina Bay Sands hotel in Singapore sits atop the roof on a platform 55 storeys above the city. From here you can see for miles and you will feel like you are literally about to swim off the edge of the building. Enjoy!
Sasakwa Lodge, Singita Grumeti Reserves, Tanzania
If you like a more natural sort of beauty when you swim, the Sasakwa Lodge in Tanzania might be just what you are looking for. Whilst the pool itself may not be as astounding as others you could mention (although each villa does have its own private infinity pool), the view over the Singita Grumeti reserves is second to none. Where else could you relax in your own pool (1:03 in the video) with a genuine opportunity to see wild game wonder past?
Banyan Tree, Mahe, Seychelles
This has to be about as opulent as swimming can get. The Seychelles are world renowned as a picture of paradise and if you have the money where better to spend your time off than in your private infinity pool on the edge of the island with expansive views over the golden sands and crystal clear ocean?
Villa DEste, Lake Como, Italy
Villa Deste in Italy is about as exclusive as a hotel gets really, certainly worth checking out in more detail if you are so inclined. But its the swimming pool that interests me literally floating in Lake Como this simple but exquisite pool has 360 degree views and the stunning hills surrounding the lake, as well as of the fabulous Renaissance building that is the Villa Deste of course.
Ubud Hanging Gardens, Bali
I have saved the best till last: I honestly cant think of anything more beautiful than the view from one of the private infinity pools at the Hanging Gardens in Bali. This private resort is nestled in the Bali rainforest and offers its guests the unique chance to relax in luxury whilst watching tropical birds and wild monkeys in their natural habitat, not to mention the presence of an ancient temple in clear view from your sunbed.