But, what is the cool factor that makes a pool especially memorable? Like so many things, when it comes to travel and vacationing, opinions vary. Some travellers prefer infinite pools with spectacular views of the sea, giving them the feeling of being at the beach — but without the sand, while others look for smaller, more-intimate pools.
Extravagant settings, like rooftops and mountains are also pretty and some vacationers love to be pampered, so fully-equipped cabanas, expansive lounges, cushioned shade chairs, attentive service, and butlers to attend to every need (including sunscreen) are a must.
Whatever your perfect pool involves, these properties showcase the enticing views and blue waters we have been waiting all year to dive into.
Vik Chile
Vik Chile, the gorgeous retreat in Chile’s Millahue Valley is celebrated worldwide for its remarkable design, warm service, unparalleled collection of art and the truly singular experience guests enjoy while visiting the destination. Perched on a hilltop amongst valleys and vines, with the Andes Mountains in the distance, Vik Chile is strategically positioned to offer 360-degree views across the 11,000-acre property. Each of the 22 intimate suites house an extensive collection of artwork, expansive views, and singular bathrooms. Guests will enjoy the remarkable infinity pool, which serves as the ideal vantage point to take in the gorgeous surroundings. Extending out over the lake below, it offers expansive views across the Chilean countryside, while simultaneously allowing guests to enjoy the unique sensation of swimming above it all.
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
Tucked onto 78 acres overlooking the Pacific, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara combines the appeal of this coastal city with the beauty of its natural surroundings. Here, one can escape to the tranquility of two beaches, three infinity-edge pools (two with ocean views) and a 42,000-sq-ft spa. Locally inspired and luxury spa rituals pay tribute to the scenic California landscape in ways both enticing and effective. At The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara guests can relax in spacious suites, all showcasing exquisite views of the ocean, pool or garden from their own personal patio or balcony. Indulge in the region’s abundance with locally sourced cuisine, from A5 Japanese Wagyu and local abalone paired with vintage wines at Angel Oak, to rustic California cuisine at ‘O’ Bar + Kitchen. At this Santa Barbara resort, every moment is one to savour.
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico
Ideally located on a former coconut plantation and nestled between the El Yunque rainforest and the tranquil waters of the Espíritu Santo River, The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort is the ideal escape for travellers seeking sun, relaxation, and culture in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations, Puerto Rico.
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort’s features include private bird sanctuaries; an on-site “green team” led by a marine biologist; multiple dining outlets to suit any occasion or taste; The St. Regis Bar, a warm gathering space that overlooks the ocean and invites guests to simply relax and take in the view, as well as experience the brand’s champagne sabering ritual; St. Regis’ legendary Butler Service; an ocean-front golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.; and an Iridium Spa. Guests of the resort can simply relax by the pool or sunbathe on the beach, while more active travellers can choose from activities such as kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, windsurfing, fishing, nature walks, hiking, biking, tennis and much more.
Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Los Cabos
Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a haven of serenity and wonder, set amidst the dunes along the dramatic coastline of Puerto Los Cabos, Mexico, with panoramic views of the sea of Cortes. It is one of five properties in the extraordinary Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio, a collection of rare and exotic resorts located in untouched stretches of paradise for the most discerning travellers seeking a meaningful, personalized escape. The property is home to a set of magnificent pools with breathtaking vistas out across the pristine sands and turquoise waters. There is truly no better place to relax, cocktail in hand, and enjoy a true getaway.
Faena Hotel Miami Beach
Set on a gorgeous stretch of beach, Faena Hotel Miami Beach features an artful visual language that recalls the glamour of the 1950s with stunning Art Deco appeal. The hotel is home to Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann, the celebrated chef’s only restaurant in the United States; Pao, which showcases modern Asian flavours; the 3,000 square-square-foot Faena Theatre; and the Tierra Santa Healing House, a one-of-a-kind South American-inspired spa dedicated to the art of well-being. As part of Faena’s commitment to transforming the ordinary to the extraordinary, the hotel features remarkable works by artists Damien Hirst, Jeff Koons, Alberto Garutti, Gonzalo Fuenmayor, Manuel Ameztoy and Juan Gatti. The hotel’s stunning pool is located just to the left of Damien Hirst’s iconic Gone But Not Forgotten, a 24 carat gilded skeleton of a woolly mammoth in a monolithic steel and glass vitrine. Offering an idyllic backdrop to soak in the Miami sun, the pool is not only chic but inviting and is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the locale while absorbing views of art, innovative design, and the delightful Florida palm trees.
Domes Zeen Chania, a Luxury Collection Resort, Crete
Nestled within the exceptional natural seaside landscape, Domes Zeen Chania, a Luxury Collection Resort in Crete is an open-hearted retreat delivering a soulful, holistic take on a Mediterranean escape. The hotel boasts a brand-new restaurant with strong Greek and Cretan influences as well as a breathtakingly outdoor pool offering views of the Aegean Sea and surround landscape of Crete. Bright Aegean skies, inviting blue seascapes and a welcoming, relaxed yet sophisticated vibe frame the experience, while the city of Chania beckons, ready to reveal its ancient secrets.
