These days hotel guests are looking for something a bit more than big, blue, rectangular and full of water when it comes to the pool. And there are many hotels only too willing to oblige. Some have created wonderful oasis or jungles in the middle of cities, or offer you sweeping, uninterrupted views of the ocean, tempt with the infinity plunge into nothingness, or have a mini water park in their garden. It's hard to compare these different approaches to creating the best hotel pools in Europe, so this list isn't in order, but is instead grouped around themes.
And while we don't really believe you're going to choose your holiday destination based solely on a photo of a dreamy pool, it might provide inspiration to get booking! If you're feeling inspired don't hesitate to get in touch by phone or email, one of our 'pool gurus' for advice.
Why is it so relaxing to stare off into a peaceful distance while letting your feet paddle and your arms bronze? This is the true essence of being on holiday and those moments are precious. Our pick of the best hotels pools in Europe with a view offer this and more - for many on this list, the vista is simply stunning.
This collection of the best hotel pools in Europe qualify because they're one of a kind hotel pool experiences. This is the kind of things honeymoons are made for!
Not all the best hotel pools in Europe are on islands or by the sea. Some can be found downtown. 'Cause sometimes all you need after a busy day exploring a new city is a quick dip before you head out again.
What could be more luxurious than arriving at your hotel and finding your suite has its very own pool. More than what most of us have at home. But we bet you deserve it.
Of course at the end of the day one man's meat is another man's poison, but we do think we've managed to select the twenty best hotel pools in Europe! Still not sure? Check out our recommendations in Greece, the Balearics and the Cote d'Azur.
Provence (Provence)
A hilltop hotel in the heart of Provence surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Elegant rooms offer style, views and soak baths. Fine dining on the terrace and a drink by the pool. Guests are enticed by the spa; the local charm and romantic feel about the place. A beautiful and memorable stay.
Fasano
Sophisticated, contemporary hotel with a young, hip vibe. Smart contemporary bedrooms, some with open fires and private pools. Wonderful courtyard bar with Balinese sofas and excellent restaurant overlooking the pool. Irene Forte spa, golf course and private beach clubs.
Athens (Omonia)
Luxury meets minimal to make a statement at this colourful boutique hotel in the centre of Athens. Spacious and stylish rooms come with all the mod-cons. Admire the sunset from the rooftop pool and open-air bar. Top notch breakfast buffet at Magenta Restaurant. Great for romantics and explorers.
Imerovigli
Tradition meets contemporary cool on the most spectacular island in Greece. A series of cave houses in the cliffside, with white on white decor broken with stylish aztec bed throws. Impossibly perfect infinity pool and an intimate poolside restaurant both boast killer views. Ideal for honeymooners.
Porto (Vila Nova de Gaia)
Porto’s grand dame of a hotel offers Michelin star dining, a spa and 82 luxurious bedrooms, many overlooking the Douro. It sits high up above the port houses, overlooking its decanter-shaped infinity pool and the River Douro beyond. Designer in style whilst keeping comfort and character in tact.
Oia (Oia)
A collection of lifestyle houses converted from 300 year old caves, built into the hillside. Spectacular views and complete tranquility meets laidback luxury and style. Stunning infinity pool, beautiful terraced gardens, and superb contemporary Greek cuisine. A wildly romantic destination.
Conca dei Marini
A monastery renovated with romance and elegance. Its celestial views from its perch on a cliff top are to die for. The hotel captures the essence of la dolce vita with its location, understated but immaculate style, and its incredible spa facilities. A romantic destination.
Funchal
This is a super modern spa hotel with slick minimalist interiors, lengthy wine list, and panoramic views of Funchal. A sophisticated spa break for those who want to be pampered to the max in a city environment.
Conca dei Marini
Outwardly unassuming, this cliff top hotel will surprise with its magnificent views over the Amalfi coast, secluded private beach down steep steps, and old fashioned charm. A holiday destination for serious lazing in the sun in spectacular surroundings.
Barcelona (Ciutat Vella)
A large 1920s building renovated with subtle minimalism. An elegant atmosphere and lots of natural light. Its restaurant offers gourmet Mediterranean fare, and there’s two swish bars. The celestial city views from the rooftop terrace and central location make it a haven for dreamy Barcelona escapes
Mallorca (Es Capdellá)
Luxurious reincarnation of a 14th century castle in the South Western corner of the island. Serious pampering here with spa, yoga, massage and super attentive staff on hand plus Michelin starred dining. The perfect spot for a romantic retreat or rest and recuperation.
Puglia
Gorgeous traditional Ostuni farmhouse. Traditional trulli (conical peasants' houses) act as rooms and suites, immaculately painted in white. Stunning grounds, terraces, and enormous swimming pool. A fabulous choice for romantic breaks, family holidays, and friends.
Tuscany
A charming and luxurious converted farmhouse enjoying a secluded spot (with spectacular views) in the picturesque Tuscan hills. Enchanting rooms are the perfect blend of rustic chic. The pool lends fabulous views and the restaurant serves up delicious local delicacies. The perfect romantic escape.
Tremezzo
Five Star Luxury from a Grand Hotel on the water's edge of Lake Como. Elegant interiors are understated, rather than overly lavish. Glossy parquet floors, brightly coloured walls, a mixture of contemporary and Baroque furniture, spectacular views from terraces. Excellent restaurant, spa, parklands.
Sicily
Gorgeous olive farm and farmhouse on a hillside. Fabulous designer rooms, suites, and two private cottages, spectacular views, African gardens, excellent food and very family friendly. Still very romantic and very luxurious.
Taormina
Fantastic Five Star luxury, Michelin star restaurant, and contemporary Italian interior design. Seamless rooms and suites with stand alone bathtubs, private balconies, and ethereal linens. Wonderful pool and spa area. Romantic, gourmet, and close to the beach.
Sicily (Sciacca)
A Rocco Forte hotel with two 18 hole golf courses, two swimming pools, a spa, four restaurants and a kids club. Classic and modern rooms and suites with private terraces, some with private pools. Very family friendly, but still luxurious. Ideal for golf enthusiasts, spa breakers and beach lovers.
Imerovigli
A hotel cut from the cliff's edge with wow factor views and indulgent surroundings. All white rooms, suites and a palatial villa with fabulous private balconies and hot tubs. Lovely Mediterranean restaurant and extensive spa. Truly romantic and luxurious.
Mykonos (Mykonos)
Wonderfully chic all-white minimalism with spectacular views over the sea. Spacious suites are decorated in modern Mykonos style which is a blend between the old and the new. The best suites have outdoor hot tubs. With a lovely pool area and a Mediterranean restaurant - this is a luxurious base.
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