If Buzz Lightyear got one thing right, it was his love of amazing hotel swimming pools. The Handbook has taken his ‘To infinity and beyond!” catchphrase and run with it to produce a list of our favourite infinity pools from around the world. Hours of back-breaking research later, and here they are, the best infinity pool in the world.

Grace Hotel Auberge, Greece

Perched above the world-famous Caldera in the southern Aegean Sea, Grace Santorini is an exclusive boutique hotel with views to die for. The white minimalist hotel is spread over levels as it climbs the cliff face. Topped by a yoga and wellness suite, this might be one of the best downward dogging spots in the world, or chuck it all in and enjoy Michelin-awarded chef Lefteris Lazarou’s signature dishes at the restaurant just below the incredible infinity pool.

www.gracehotels.com

The Cambrian Hotel, Adelboden, Switzerland

Why climb the mountains when you can swim them? The spa at the Cambrian Hotel includes this incredible heated pool, looking out across the Alps and we can’t imagine a more perfect place to relax after a day on the slopes. Or why not just sack off the skiing and just head straight to the pool? The restaurant, serving “New Alpine” cuisine is on hand to replenish the calories apres ski, or simply sit in the Finnish sauna.

The spa at the Cambrian Hotel includes this incredible heated pool, looking out across the Alps and we can’t imagine a more perfect place to relax.

www.thecambrianadelboden.com

Shangri La, Shard, London

London has one of the best skylines around, and where better to gaze at St Pauls or The Gherkin than fully submerged on the 52nd floor? Officially the highest pool in Europe and with one of the capital’s best hotels tagged on. The Shard, one of London’s most iconic buildings is located within a stone’s throw of London’s financial district, but don’t go here for work – this hotel is made for relaxation!

www.shangri-la.com

Aura Sky Pool, Dubai

Of course, we have to talk about the incredible AURA Skypool in Dubai – AKA the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool. Occupying the entire 50th floor of The Palm Tower, it offers a truly breathtaking experience with lift doors opening to reveal endless views across the Arabian cityscape, ocean and desert beyond. Not one for the fainthearted, the pool blends seamlessly into the skyline to create a vertigo-inducing backdrop made for the ‘gram – there’s no doubt that the ‘people posing’ is almost as captivating as the vista here!

Chic and spacious day beds are attended by friendly hosts providing impeccable service, whilst expertly curated soundscapes from resident DJs and delicious bites complete the sensory immersion. Take a break from the heat with a refreshing cocktail in the air-conditioned lounge, and don’t miss the opportunity to walk all four sides of the wraparound terrace. To make your visit even more memorable, we recommend booking a Marina View at sunset to enjoy the most stunning sundowners of your life. 

www.auraskypool.com

Hanging Gardens of Bali, Ubud, Bali

Seemingly suspended above the forest, the Hanging Gardens of Bali are close to the cultural capital of Ubud and clings to the steep mountainside. Set across 44 private villas the the destination combines contemporary luxury with Balinese décor and textiles. The hotel is connected to the gorge below by a unique funicular railway, making The Hanging Gardens of Bali the pinnacle of luxury.

Set across 44 private villas the the destination combines contemporary luxury with Balinese décor and textiles.

www.hanginggardensofbali.com

The Oberoi Udaivilas, India

Swim like a maharaja at the Oberoi Udaivilas, regularly voted as one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. The rooms are swim-up thanks to the 240 ft pool, and the palatial surroundings mean that the luxury doesn’t stop there. Located on the bank of Lake Pichola The Oberoi Udaivilas is really a gem in Rajasthan’s crown.

www.oberoihotels.com

Sandblu, Santorini

Sandblu’s infinity pool is the kind of spot that makes you forget what day it is—in the best way. It stretches right out to the Aegean, giving you that dreamy edge-of-the-world view that looks amazing from every angle (especially with an Aperol spritz in hand!) The vibe is super laid-back with sleek loungers, just the right amount of greenery, and poolside snacks that somehow taste better with your feet in the water.

www.sandblu.com

Alila Villas Uluwatu, Bali

Back to Bali, this time the cantilevered Alila Villas, set above the rugged limestone cliffs of the Bukit Peninsula. The jaw-dropping panoramic views are matched only by the striking pool. Designed by an award-winning architectural team, the low-rise buildings blend into the natural environment and the hotel flows seamlessly between inside and out.

The jaw dropping panoramic views are matched only by the striking pool.

www.alilahotels.com

Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Tanzania

All the pools in this guide come with a view, but none perhaps as breath-taking as a Serengeti watering hole. Doggy paddle up to the edge of the pool and watch lions, leopards and elephants just a few yards away. The hotel is, obviously, ideal for anyone on a safari, but the facilities, bar and restaurant aren’t negatively affected by the bush setting.

www.fourseasons.com

Marina Bay Hotel, Singapore

A photo can’t convey the sheer drama of the pool at the Marina Bay Hotel. Running the length of the observation deck of the Singapore hotel, the structure itself is perched on top of three soaring tower blocks and is one of the architectural marvels of the world.

A photo can’t convey the sheer drama of the pool at the Marina Bay Hotel.

www.marinabaysands.com

Zemi Beach House Resort & Spa, Anguilla

With 54 ocean-view rooms, the sea is never that far away at the luxurious Zemi Beach House in Anguilla, but the infinity pool here gives a distinct impression that it’s quite literally connected. The resort, set over six acres on the stunning Caribbean island, balances style and seclusion.

With 54 ocean-view rooms, the sea is never that far away at the luxurious Zemi Beach House in Anguilla.

www.zemibeach.com

The Chedi Muscat, Oman

Oman, often overlooked because of its noisy, brash neighbours in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is a cultural destination as well as a luxurious one. The Chedi’s 158 Omani-influenced guestrooms and villas share an infinity pool at the junction between sea and mountain.

www.ghmhotels.com

Voavah, Maldives

Voavah is a tiny private island resort from 4 Seasons that’s so exclusive that there are only seven guestrooms, accessed by seaplane and with a beachside infinity pool to die for. The island comes with a 62 ft luxury yacht, allowing guests to explore the UNESCO ocean territory. Swim with turtles and reef sharks thanks to on-site PADI diving instructors, or just relax on the beach being waited on hand-and-foot. Why not (in this parallel world where money isn’t an object) take the entire island and turn it into a party paradise?

www.fourseasons.com


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