After a fun-filled morning of activity– be it to a local market in Vietnam, a Patagonia trek in Chile, or a game drive in the Botswanan bush– there is nothing more refreshing than a dip in the pool. The cool water instantly rejuvenates, preparing you for the afternoon adventures that await. Add to that the potential for fantastic views, wildlife sightings, and unique architecture, and a property’s pool can instantly become a focal point.
Throughout our adventures, the experts at Travel Beyond have first-hand experience with some of the most fantastic pools in the world, swimming in anything from private plunge to breathtaking infinity pools. Below is a list of a few favorites. Happy swimming!
Southeast Asia
Alila Villas Uluwatu
Bali, Indonesia
This infinity pool is eye catching not only for its vibrancy, but also the optical illusion it creates. With its waters almost indistinguishable from that of the ocean, you’ll forget the property is nestled onto the side of a cliff and not, as it appears to be, sitting beachside!
Shinta Mani Wild
Cardamom Mountains, Cambodia
Nestled in the jungle of the Cardamom Mountains, the pool at Shinta Mani Wild is known as the Cistern. It is made entirely of steel and painted jet black, to reflect the surrounding forest. It is unique as it is refreshing.
The Siam
Bangkok, Thailand
The pool at the Siam Hotel in Bangkok sits right alongside the Chao Phraya River. Serving as the main waterway for the city, you can spend an entire day simply watching the longtail boats navigating to and fro, carrying everything from produce to people.
Africa
Duba Explorers Camp
Duba Plains Reserve, Okavango Delta, Botswana
The most eye-catching element of this pool is undoubtedly its foundation, built atop a repurposed military vehicle. Climb up the steps and enjoy not only an afternoon swim, but elevated views of the surrounding floodplains. Keep your eyes open for passing wildlife!
Kwessi Dunes
Namib Rand Private Reserve, Namibia
Kwessi Dunes’ pool provides both epic vistas and wildlife encounters. There is a water trough just beyond the pool which the desert animals, most often oryx, will visit for a drink. You can take in the spectacular desert landscape while watching these long-horned antelope approach.
Singita Sasakwa Lodge
Grumeti Reserve, Serengeti, Tanzania
The views from this pool give new meaning to the word infinity, as the Serengeti appears to stretch endlessly into the distance. Lounge in the shade of an umbrella, take a quick dip, or stand along its edge looking out over the world-famous landscape.
*The large image at the top is the stunning pool at Ongava Tented Camp, located in Namibia’s Ongava reserve. Here, you are likely to have enormous elephants stop for a drink at all times of day!
South America
Belmond Palacio Nazarenas
Cusco, Peru
Belmond Palacio Nazarenas is home to the only outdoor pool in the high altitude city of Cusco. Relax following a visit to the Plaza de Armas or the ruins of Sachsayhuaman, or simply take in the surrounding architecture (the hotel was built within a former nunnery).
Vines of Mendoza
Mendoza, Argentina
Surrounded by the Andes Mountains and with lounge chairs in the pool itself, it is impossible not to love the pool at Vines of Mendoza. What’s more, enjoying a poolside drink takes on an entirely new meaning, as you have access to the property’s private vineyard!
Hotel Emiliano, Cube Suite
Sao Paulo, Brazil
The design of the suite, combined with its city views, makes for a truly memorable plunge pool experience. You can take a quick dip while gazing out over the hustle and bustle of Sao Paulo through your geometric windows!
No matter where you choose to explore next, don’t discount the swimming pools. We can find the one that offers you precisely what you’ll need to relax, rejuvenate and thoroughly enjoy the destination!