Natural Beauty:
The Havasu Falls, located in the Havasupai tribal lands, Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA, form some of the most spectacular and natural pools in the world. The calcium carbonate in the water lends it the blue-green hues that surpass the palette of any painter.
Taking a dip in a cool, glistening pool in the scorching heat or even otherwise, is a pleasure that cannot be described in words. Swimming pools have been an important piece of architecture since the middle of the 19th century, and history bears testimony to the fact that Britain has one of the oldest public swimming pools in the world. As the wheels of the century turned, architects have begun to draw inspiration from diverse subject and have come up with more and more innovative ideas for constructing pools.
As of today, swimming pools can be categorized as private pools, public pools, spa pools, indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, infinity pools, natural pools, and many, many more. Apart from their primary function of facilitating the activity of swimming, pools lend a certain serenity to the place surrounding them, which is why architects have been experimenting with innumerable designs, the effort of which has resulted in the construction of some of the most beautiful pools ever. Here, we have enlisted 30 of the most exotic and famous swimming pools of the world.
1. The Marina Bay Sands Resort, Singapore
Image Source: Marina Bay Sands
Like all the rooftop pools, swimming at the Marina Bay Sands Resort gives you the ultimate pleasure of swimming on top of the world. Designed by Israeli-American architect Moshe Safdie, it extends to about 150 meters and is believed to be the largest pool at such a great height. It provides an impressive 360-degree view of the city’s skyline.
2. The Chongwe River House, Zambia
Image Source: Chongwe River House
Designed by Tanzanian architect Neil Rocher, a stay at the Chongwe River House is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Situated amidst the exotic wildlife of Zambia, the house is built of natural material, and the pool located outside the porch is a delight in itself. Swimming in the cool waters, one can spot elephants in the river and the incredible trees across the house.
3. The Golden Nugget, Las Vegas, USA
Image Source: Golden Nugget
A recipient of several accolades, the pool at the Golden Nugget, named ‘The Tank’, is undoubtedly one of the most amazing pools around the world. The pool contains waterfalls, a hot tub, and the most unique feature – a shark tank! Situated 30 feet above the ground, one gets to experience the thrill of swimming underwater with the deadliest aquatic animals in the world. While the pool and the hot tub are available from 7 in the morning to 12 in the night, the shark chute is open from 9 a.m.
4. The Library, Koh Samui, Thailand
Image Source: The Library
The Red Pool at the Library is one of the most unusual swimming pools around the world. The Library is one of the exclusive boutique hotels in Koh Samui, and the Red pool here gets its name due to the brightly-colored tiles in myriad hues of red, yellow, and orange. It is at a stone’s throw away from the beach of Chaweng, and has been rated as one of the most spectacular pools in the world by CNN Travel.
5. The Cambrian, Switzerland
Image Source: The Cambrian Adelboden
The Cambrian is a luxury hotel in the village of Adelboden, Switzerland, situated very close to a ski range. The rooms at the Cambrian face the magnificent Swiss Alps, and the outdoor pool offers a panoramic view of the pristine mountain range.
6. The Sanctuary Swala Retreats, Tanzania
Image Source: Sanctuary Retreats
Sanctuary Swala Retreats is an eco-friendly hotel located in the Tarangire National Park, Tanzania. With contemporary African-style cabins and lounges facing the native grasslands, the infinity pool at Sanctuary Swala is particularly stunning as it overlooks the lake, which is frequented by elephants and other wild animals. The pool area is also a perfect relaxation getaway, where guests can chill with drinks after a particularly tiring day.
7. The Grace, Santorini, Greece
Image Source: Grace Hotels
Santorini has some of the most beautiful, pristine hotels in Greece. The Grace is one of the most exclusive luxury hotels and offers a breathtaking view of the sea. The pool at the Grace is an attraction in itself, cold and pleasant, with a cool lounge and deck chairs. The turquoise blue waters seem to extend until the end of the earth, and offer a splendid view of the magnificent Aegean Sea.
8. The Caruso, Amalfi Coast, Italy
Image Source: Belmond
Italy itself is a panorama of stunning architecture and natural beauty. The Belmond Hotel Caruso, located in the town of Ravello, Italy, is a combination of luxury and comfort, and offers the incredible feeling of floating amidst the clouds. The infinity pool is located at what is seemingly the highest point of the town, and the water is on the warmer side. Lounging in the pool, one can experience the flawless service of the hotel staff and watch the magnificent views of the city and the Amalfi coastline.
9. The Hanging Gardens Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Image Source: Hanging Gardens Ubud
The Hanging Gardens at Ubud, Bali, is a stunning piece of architecture and rightly so. The log cabins seem to be perched atop a hill amidst the lush Ubud landscape. The infinity pool beside the cabin is suspended high and gives the incredible feeling of floating above the evergreen forests. The pool is split into levels, and one can literally experience the magic of floating in a water body in the air, with the sounds of nature in tandem, and complete isolation. The swimmers at the lower level have the feeling of a pool and a waterfall, and the ones above feel the magic of swimming over the edge. Extraordinarily exhilarating, no doubt.
10. The Gold Energy, St. Regis, Tibet
Image Source: Starwood Hotels St. Regis
The St. Regis Lhasa Resort is a luxurious five-star hotel in Tibet, China. The main attraction of this resort is not the ultimate material comfort or the pristine view of the Himalayas, but the glittering gold pool. What makes it seem like real gold is the color of the splendid gold-plated tiles. Heated at 28 degree Celsius and filled with rejuvenating saltwater, a dip in this pool is truly therapeutic and invigorating.
11. The Crocosaurus Cove, Australia
Image Source: Crocosaurus Cove
A prior warning here, read this only if you are an adventure lover, this is not for the faint-hearted. Located in the center of Darwin city, Australia, the Crocosaurus Cove is a pool that houses crocodiles! The place is famous for the Cage of Death, which allows you to swim with crocodiles. Well, not literally. The swimmers are encased in a glass cabin that is immersed into the pool, and you can actually watch the crocodiles swim with you―almost face-to-face. If you love these humongous and dangerous lizards, you’ll have one thrilling experience of a lifetime.
12. The Blue Lagoon, Geothermal Resort, Iceland
Image Source: Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa at the Geothermal Resort in Grindavík, and is one of the prime attractions of Iceland. The pool is man-made and is actually located on a lava field, though the water comes from a geothermal power plant in the vicinity. The hot mineral water of the pool is believed to cure many skin-related ailments, and the spa endorses many rejuvenating activities for the visitors. The Lagoon has a research and development facility as well.
13. The Nemo 33, Brussels, Belgium
Image Source: Nemo 33
One of the best and deepest indoor swimming pools of the world, Nemo 33 is located in Uccle, in Brussels, Belgium. Designed by Belgian diving expert John Nuttyheart, this 110-feet deep pool is meant for swimming, recreation, film shooting, as well as underwater diving. The pool contains filtered, non-chlorinated hot water, maintained at approximately 30 degree Celsius. Nemo 33 allows amateurs as well as professional divers to swim in the water with trainers.
14. The Giola Lagoon, Astris, Greece
Image Source: Feel Greece
The lagoon at Giola in the village of Astris is a natural lagoon, formed within the rocks. Situated amidst the blue waters of the sea, the green-colored water of the lagoon is a striking contrast. The pool is approximately 20 x 15 meters in size, and is located around 100 meters from the Aeria hotel in Astris. A brilliant natural phenomenon, the lagoon is one of the best tourist spots in Greece.
15. The LeCrans, Crans Montana, Switzerland
Image Source: Le Crans
The LeCrans Hotel and Spa, a deluxe hotel, is situated at Montana―two-hours from Geneva, Switzerland―a popular ski resort. With contemporary exteriors and modern interiors, the hotel offers the ultimate luxury amidst the cold snow-capped peaks. The hotel has an indoor and outdoor pool as well as a jacuzzi. The outdoor pool is heated and offers a splendid view of the Valais mountain range. Pure and full of tranquility, the pool at LeCrans is definitely worth a visit.
16. The Pamukkale, Denizli, Turkey
Image Source: Pamukkale
Pamukkale is a tourist spot in the province of Denizli in Turkey, renowned for its natural hot springs. Popularly called the cotton castle of Turkey, the water contains natural minerals, and the place has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tourists are instructed to maintain hygiene to protect the pools. Pamukkale is made of a sedimentary rock called travertine, and the entire area consists of about 17 hot springs.
17. The Villa Althea, Kefalonia, Greece
Image Source: Beyond Spaces Villas
Villa Althea is a majestic hotel in northwestern Kefalonia Greece, and boasts one of the most incredible hotel swimming pools. The pool is designed like a stepped well or an inverted pyramid. The pool overlooks the vast expanse of the tranquil sea and gives the visitor an ultimately serene feeling of bliss.
18. The Laucala Island Resort, Fiji
Image Source: LHW
Located on the small island of Laucala, among the Fiji islands, the Laucala Resort is nothing short of paradise. Apart from the incredible hospitality, the spectacular scenery, and other comforts, the resort is famous for its unique pool―a pool within a pool. Here at Laucala, the outdoor pool is designed as an exotic water park, and the water-filled glass structure within the pool on the exterior is a magnificent piece of architecture. The pool surrounds the many villas of the resort, and the fresh blue waters amidst the lush green landscape seems just like heaven.
19. The Sha Wellness Clinic, Alicante
Image Source: Sha Wellness Clinic
Designed by Carlos Gilardi and Elvira Blanco, the Sha Wellness Medical Clinic is located at Alicante, Spain and is dedicated to contributing towards the overall wellness of the human race through a combination of ancient and modern techniques. It houses one of the most extravagantly-designed swimming pools and indoor waterfalls of the world. The infinity pool of the hotel is located on the terrace and surrounds most of the luxury suites, with Balinese-style couches in the relaxation area.
20. The Villa d’Este, Lake Como, Italy
Image Source: Villa Deste
Hotel Villa d’Este is located at Lake Como in Italy. The hotel comprises three heated pools: an indoor pool, a kids’ pool, and a pool on the lake. The floating pool on the lake does not permit kids below the age of 12, and is available with the comfort of a luxurious attached jacuzzi. The kids’ pool is located outdoors, near the beach, while the indoor pool is located in the premises of the building.
21. The Hotel Fasano, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Image Source: Fasano
Hotel Fasano is situated in the heart of Rio de Janerio and overlooks the famous Sugarloaf mountain. The hotel has an outstanding rooftop infinity pool that offers a splendid view of the Corcovado and Arpoador.
22. The Amangiri Resort, Utah, USA
Image Source: Aman Resorts
The Amangiri resort located in Canyon Point, Utah, is a masterpiece of elegance, the distinguishing feature being the fact that the resort is built around the pool. The pool is an exquisite piece of architecture, filled with soft green-colored water, with comfortable couches on the deck, surrounded by canyons and plateaus. An oasis of luxury in the Canyon, this pool surely deserves a mention in the list of the best pools in the world.
23. The Perivolas Oia, Santorini, Greece
Image Source: Perivolas GR
The Perivolas, located in Santorini, Greece, is an elegant structure encompassing luxury suites, clear blue pools, and lush landscapes. An atmosphere of quiet tranquility and heavenly bliss, a trip to the Perivolas resort is sure to give you the ultimate experience of peace and comfort.
24. The Standard, Los Angeles, California
Image Source: Standard Hotels
The pool at the Standard, in L.A., California, has one of the most amazing hotel balcony/rooftop swimming pools. The pool offers a brilliant view of the city and the mountain ranges. It encompasses a poolside bar, water beds, outdoor fireplace, red decks, dance floor, and a topiary. It is arguably one of the most luxurious pools in L.A.
25. The Skye Bar, São Paolo, Brazil
Image Source: Hotel Unique
Designed by Ruy Ohtake, Hotel Unique of São Paolo is one of the most beautiful hotels with an innovative design. Te hotel building is designed to look like a ship with stylish interiors. This hotel houses the Skye Bar rooftop pool, which is famous for its outstanding scenic views. The pool area and the sauna are spacious and comfortably designed. The pools are encased with glowing lights, and its walls encompass massage loungers.
26. The Alila Uluwatu Resort, Bali, Indonesia
Image Source: Alila Hotels
The Alila Uluwati Resort in Bali specializes in pool villas surrounded by green landscapes. Every villa has access to the infinity pool from which the water seems to cascade into the ocean. The open-plan design of the resort allows the sea-breeze to flow in uninterrupted, over the cool waters of the pool, which adds to the peace and serenity of the place.
27. The Paresa Resort, Phuket, Thailand
Image Source: Paresa Resorts
The Aqua Pool suites are a major attraction of The Paresa resort that provides brilliant sea-views. Every suite has its own private infinity edge pool with rainfall showers. With breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea from every suite, this resort offers a sensual and once-in-a-lifetime experience.
28. The Punta Tragara, Capri, Italy
Image Source: Hotel Tragara
The Punta Tragara is a luxury hotel in Capri Italy, and offers an ultimate holiday experience. The hotel encompasses two outdoor pools, of which one is heated and offers thalasso treatments.
29. The Badeschiff, Berlin, Germany
Image Source: Visit Berlin
A pool inside a river has to be one of the most unique ideas ever. The Badeschiff in Berlin boasts of a floating public swimming pool that was converted from the hull of a ship. The place is open to the public from 8 in the morning until midnight, and is home to the vast expanse of humanity during the summer.
30. The Hotel Avalon, Gothenburg, Sweden
Image Source: Avalon Hotel
The Avalon Hotel is located in beautiful city of Gothenburg, Sweden, and its rooftop swimming pool is a prime attraction. The pool is a marvelous piece of architecture and offers a picturesque view of the city. The rooftop terrace is open in the summer months, where tourists can relax in the pool and have cocktails.
These are just some of the countless number of pools in the world that have been designed in an outstanding way. Having a swimming pool in resorts and clubs and five-star hotels is more of a luxury than a necessity, and architects make the most of it to come up with exclusive ideas.
Read more at Buzzle: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/most-spectacular-swimming-pools-around-the-world.html
