Written by Zoe Cuthbertson
As the frosty winter begins to set in London, it’s time to start dreaming of exotic getaways – and the most important part? Lazing poolside with cocktail in hand. So we’ve come up with a list to help you; these winners get points for view, location and of course – dipping appeal! Here are the 5 most beautiful hotel pools in the world…
1. W, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
I get butterflies just looking at this pool – and at a stomach fluttering 692m above Hong Kong’s Victoria harbour it’s little wonder. Ingeniously named ‘WET’, this pool is a dippers ultimate fantasy – combining height, colour and space to create architectural and design treat.
Cocktail to sip poolside: Espresso Martini, so you can stay awake late enough to see this pool lit up at night.
2. Library Hotel, Koh Samui, Thailand
A little slice of Hitchcock, the blood-red water gets its eerie colouring from a myriad of glass mosaic tiles that line the pool walls. The murderous waters match the poolside lounges where guests can recline and take in the killer views of the beach beyond.
Cocktail to sip poolside: A Bloody Mary, of course.
3. Singita Grumeti Faru Faru Lodge, Tanzania
Gliding through the waters as African wildlife saunter by, you may find yourself contemplating the circle (rather than the meaning) of life. If you’re lucky local elephants may even come by to drink from the waterhole beneath the guest pool. The hotel has had the accolade of ‘World’s Best Hotel’ for two years in a row, however, the pool gets it’s spot on the list for location and serious wildlife factor. The lawn is also lined with telescopes to spy on the wildlife, want to go down and see them closer? A ranger can then drive you down there, Hakuna Matata!
Cocktail to sip poolside: Down a Brown Elephant while looking at one!
4. The Sarojin, Khao Lak, Thailand
The billowing sails of these individual decks make for a romantic and breathtaking place to take in lunch. The pool, lined by fresh flowers is also dotted with floating lotus flowers, a symbol of flawless and timeless beauty over the centuries – which is how long you’ll want to stay in these luxurious surroundings!
Cocktail to sip poolside: Mango Sticky Rice Cocktail – do we need a reason? Dessert and cocktail in one!
5. Cliffside Pool, Hotel du Cap Eden-Roc, France
At the Hotel du Cap Eden-Roc the guests swim in luxury, surrounded by sandy cliff faces and overlooking the spectacular views of the Cap d’Antibes coast. Lined by white umbrellas and private cabanas this picturesque pool has seen many famous faces, and well, if it’s good enough for Kate Moss…!
Cocktail to sip poolside: French 76, for the location, and its Moss’s favourite!