Words by Carlie Tucker

How many times have you found yourself drawn to a certain destination just because you saw a hotel with a really great pool? All it takes is one look at a photograph and suddenly you're there, dipping your toes in the cooling waters with a cocktail in one hand and fluffy beach towel in the other.

The resort pool has the power to inspire travel and sway bookings, which is why luxury hotspots are putting more time and effort into designing extraordinary pools that beg travellers from across the globe to come by just for a dip. Be it a swim with a view, a quirky design or remarkable location, we're counting down some of the world's best luxury hotel pools.  

Ritz Carlton Phulay Bay – Thailand

This 5-star stay knows how to impress with the right pool. Incorporating everything from private plunge pools and garden lagoons to infinity edge designs overlooking the blue waters of Andaman Sea, it's easy to get your splash on in style. No matter what style that may be. The Royal Villa pool (pictured) comes complete with hydro jets, secluded veranda and sensational views.

Hotel Indigo – Hong Kong

When it comes to urban escapes, you can't beat the pool at Hotel Indigo. It's definitely not one for those who can't handle heights. Sitting on the 29th floor of a Hong Kong high rise, it's a long lap pool that extends beyond the building's edge. It takes in incredible 180 degree views across the Hong Kong skyline, but you can also peer through the glass bottom for a bird's eye view of the city below.

Hanging Gardens of Bali – Bali

This resort's pool is so famous it has a dedicated section on the hotel website. Conde Nast Traveller named it the world's best swimming pool, and it has been seen in countless blogs and magazines thanks to its unique tiered design that overlooks the surrounding tropical forest. It was architecturally designed to give the sense of swimming above the treetops. 

Anantara Veli – Maldives

This is your quintessential tropical getaway with white sand beaches, private waterfront villas and swaying palms. Though this luxury resort sets itself apart from other Maldives offerings with a superior swimming pool game. Book one of the deluxe overwater bungalows and you'll not only be treated to crystal clear waters literally at your doorstep, but you'll also get to enjoy the views from your very own private plunge pool.

Huvafen Fushi – Maldives

Another luxury offering situated in the idyllic Maldives, this hotel is all about going above and beyond. Whether it's the aquatic limousine that drops you at the island or the deluxe lagoon villas with private pools, you'll be lapping up the luxury at every turn. Their resort pool is the star of the show though, with its infinity edge design that seemingly slips into the blue ocean beyond. By night, this oasis also lights up with twinkling coloured lights for an added touch of magic.

Belmond Hotel Caruso – Amalfi Coast

How often do you get the chance to stay in a former 11th century palace on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast? Every aspect of this luxury hotel is impressive, but the pool takes things a step further. Architecturally designed, it sits at the highest point above the town of Ravello, giving the effect of being suspended in the clouds overlooking the beautiful coastline below.

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort – United Arab Emirates

Drawing on the vision of a shimmering oasis among the desert sands, this resort pool is like something straight out of the movies. By day the free form design offers a cooling retreat complete with raised water features and the poolside Ghadeer restaurant. By night, the waters glow blue and provide a perfect spot from which to enjoy the incredible night sky.

The Resort At Pedregal – Cabo San Lucas

Down south in Cabo San Lucas, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, sits The Resort At Pedregal. This luxury hotel has been carved into the mountainside to maximise on those incredible coastal views. Nearly every area of this hotel enjoys a scenic lookout from the rooms and restaurants to ... you guessed it, the pool. The infinity edge design seamlessly blends with the crashing ocean waves and a swim up bar allows you to enjoy a cocktail while you relax. 

Le Crans Hotel & Spa – Switzerland

Normally guests head for the pool to cool off, but Le Crans Hotel & Spa in Switzerland invites guests to head for the pool to heat up. Positioned among the snow-covered peaks of the Valais region, this popular resort calls to ski aficionados across the globe. And, after a long day on the slopes, you can soothe your tired muscles in the heated outdoor pool that enjoys incredible views of the surrounding snowy mountain scenery.