With a Europe-wide heatwave sending temperatures soaring, a great hotel pool has never felt less like an amenity and more like a necessity. Fortunately, the continent’s most gorgeous examples go far beyond somewhere to cool off. These pools float on lakes, stretch towards the ocean and hover high above the mountains, with enough drama to justify planning the entire stay around them.
Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora, Tenerife, Spain
Set between the Atlantic and Mount Teide, the resort’s showpiece is the longest infinity pool in Europe, an immense saltwater sweep surrounded by subtropical gardens and swaying palms. With over 5,000 square metres of water to explore, swimming a few lengths requires commitment, refreshments and possibly a pre-agreed meeting point.
Villa d’Este, Lake Como, Italy
Dating back to the 1500s, this icon has glamour built into its foundations. In 1966, it became home to the lake’s first floating swimming pool, a design that went on to inspire other hotels along the shore. Decades later, it remains every bit as striking, offering a peaceful place to swim, read or linger with an expertly mixed cocktail in hand, all against a backdrop of soaring mountains and picturesque villages.
Hotel Hubertus, South Tyrol, Italy
Suspended 12 metres above mountain meadows, the 25-metre Sky Pool brings a little architectural theatre to the Dolomites. A glass front and window set into the floor create the sensation of floating over the landscape, while crystal-clear mountain spring water is heated to 33°C throughout the year. The only real decision is whether to admire the view ahead or brave the view directly beneath your feet.
Grace Hotel, Santorini, Greece
Overlooking the caldera in Imerovigli, this 22-metre infinity pool is framed by volcanic cliffs and limitless Aegean views. The water seems to disappear into the sea, as the plush loungers and poolside cocktails provide persuasive reasons to stay put. Come sunset, it becomes one of the island’s most enviable front-row seats.
AMARA, Limassol, Cyprus
This seawater infinity pool looks out across the Mediterranean, with the horizon appearing to dissolve into the water. The hotel’s sleek architecture and expansive spa add to the sense of ultra-luxury, while the pool’s adults-only setting ensures no enthusiastic cannonballs interrupt the calm.
