As much of Europe swelters through another summer heatwave, there’s no better excuse to swap crowded beaches for a refreshing hotel pool.
Across the continent, luxury hotels have transformed swimming pools into spectacular destinations in their own right, from infinity pools perched above calderas to geothermal lagoons carved into volcanic landscapes.
Whether you’re planning a Mediterranean escape or a “coolcation” in the northern nations, these are some of Europe’s most remarkable hotel pools.
Villa d’Este, Lake Como, Italy
Consistently ranked among Europe’s top resorts, Villa d’Este is home to a legendary pool that floats on Lake Como. Villa d’Este’s Sporting Club introduced its floating pool in the mid-1960s.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como, Italy
Not far away on Lake Como, Grand Hotel Tremezzo also boasts its own floating attraction – the WOW (Water-on-the-Water) Pool. It’s one of three pools at the luxury property.
Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort, Var, France
Located between Provence and the French Riviera, the Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort is home to an infinity pool with stunning panoramic views. A great spot to relax after exploring 750 acres of nature or playing 18 holes on the two championship courses.
Le Sirenuse, Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy
In Positano on Italy’s spectacular Amalfi Coast, Le Sirenuse boasts a terrace pool that’s described as “the art of cool immersion”. Created by Swiss artist Nicolas Party, the mosaic pool is a “cool delight”.
Hôtel Lily of the Valley, La Croix Valmer, France
Wellness is the key theme at Hôtel Lily of the Valley, a five-star luxury hotel near Saint-Tropez. Designed by renowned architect Phillipe Starck, it boasts a 2,000 square metre wellness centre and a stunning 25-metre infinity swimming pool.
Grace Hotel Santorini, Greece
Grace Hotel is home to one of Santorini’s finest infinity pools, which offers uninterrupted views of the caldera. Many of the hotel’s rooms and suites also have private plunge pools, while the exclusive villa has its own pool.
Six Senses Ibiza, Spain
Six Senses is known for its world-class spa offerings and at its resort on the island of Ibiza guests can enjoy a host of wellness activities. There’s no better place to relax than the infinity pool which has views of Xarraca Bay.
Victoria Golf Resort & Spa, Vilamoura, Portugal
Just 30 minutes from Faro airport, the Victoria Golf Resort & Spa, Managed by Accor is an ideal property for golfers as it overlooks The Els Club Vilamoura with direct private access to the course. After 18 holes, players can then relax in one of the resort’s four outdoor swimming pools.
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, Iceland
This luxury resort in Iceland features a 60-suite hotel, a subterranean spa, Michelin-starred dining and exclusive access to a private lagoon fed by the same mineral-rich geothermal waters as the famous Blue Lagoon.