Blue Monday: Discover the World’s Best Swimming PoolsBy Angelica Malin
Dreaming of blue skies and crystal clear waters, in place of the Jubilee line and Pret croissants every morning? Take Blue Monday to a whole new meaning with these luxury escapes around the world – from Bora Bora to sunny California. Here’s where to get your sun in style this year, with the world’s best swimming pools:
World’s Best Swimming Pools: Islands of Tahiti
Le Meridien, Bora Bora
In one of the most exclusive corners of the world, Le Meridien’s famed overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, the A-List’s holiday destination of choice, are surrounded by crystal clear waters and pristine white sands. Boasting two infinity pools, guests at the Le Meridien can enjoy some of the best views of the iconic Mt Otemanu. tahititourisme.uk
World’s Best Swimming Pools: Japan
Suginoi Hotel, Kagoshima
The rooftop pool at Suginoi Hotel in Kagoshima is special not only for its incredible positioning, but because it is fed by mineral rich geothermal waters, said to have natural healing properties. Consisting of a five-tier complex, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Beppu Bay and the Seto Inland Sea in the distance, whilst soaking in the cleansing waters. www.seejapan.co.uk
World’s Best Swimming Pools: Canada
Whistler, British Columbia
The Scandinave Spa is a highlight for any trip to Whistler. For long-haul travellers and weary skiers, snowboarders or athletes, hydrotherapy offers an effective way of releasing tensions in both the mind and the body and the cycle of hot-cold-relax is proven to both energize and rest the body, improving blood circulation and activating the lymphatic system to help detoxification. The swimming pools are surrounded by beautiful mountains and pine trees, allowing visitors to unwind and achieve total relaxation. www.whistler.com
World’s Best Swimming Pools: California
The Lodge at Edgewood, South Lake Tahoe
The Lodge at Edgewood Tahoe’s year-round lakefront pool and hot tub make for the perfect place to unwind without ever having to take your eyes off the mesmerizing waters of America’s shiniest jewel – Lake Tahoe. All guests of The Lodge can snuggle up in first-class accommodation, relax on their terrace or balcony or enjoy the heated pool facilities. www.southlaketahoe.com
The Resort at Pelican Hill, Newport Beach
Located at the southernmost tip of Newport Beach is The Resort at Pelican Hill. The hotel is synonymous with all things luxury and boasts a beautiful circular pool. Inspired by the timeless curves of Rome’s famed landmark, the Coliseum Pool is at the heart of the resort. Perfectly circular, it is one of the largest circular pools in the world, holding 280,000 gallons of water. It dazzles with classic architecture of vaulted arches, corniced columns and an amphitheatre of terraced decks. The radiant blue bottom itself is a work of art and was created by hand using 1.1 million hand-cut glass mosaic tiles.www.visitnewportbeach.com
Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows
With skiing during the winter and hiking throughout the summer, Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows in California can be enjoyed all year round. Guests can take a scenic Aerial Tram ride to the High Camp Pool and Hot Tub, surrounded by the beauty of the Sierra Nevada and offering views of Lake Tahoe and Squaw Valley’s legendary granite peaks. www.ikonpass.com
Paséa Hotel & Spa, Huntington Beach
Located just steps from the Huntington Beach Pier, Paséa Hotel & Spa is a modern oasis with an unrivalled sense of clean, coastal style and comfort. Offering laid-back luxury with a deep connection to the Huntington Beach surf culture, Paséa Hotel & Spa comprises 250 spacious guestrooms, rooftop bar and spa. The aqua blue pool is a highlight of the hotel, boasting unparalleled views of the ocean. www.surfcityusa.com
Hotel del Coronado, San Diego
Made famous by the 1950’s classic, Some Like It Hot starring Marilyn Monroe, Hotel del Coronado is one of the most lavish resorts in San Diego. Situated along the Coronado coast, the hotel offers a large swimming pool with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. For the ultimate luxury, guests can rent a poolside cabana which comes complete with complimentary fruit, soft drinks and a flat screen TV. www.sandiego.org
La Quinta Resort and Club, Greater Palm Springs
Why settle for one swimming pool when you can have forty times as many? The La Quinta Resort and Club in La Quinta, Greater Palm Springs, boasts an impressive 41 swimming pools. From the main pool featuring private cabanas and views of the Santa Rosa Mountains, to the adult-only plunge pool, which offers total peace and relaxation, there’s something for all types of traveller. Many suites and casitas also have private swimming pools. www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com
Petit Ermitage, West Hollywood
The Petit Ermitage is West Hollywood’s bohemian boutique hotel filled with antiques, art and colourful carpets and murals. Guests can enjoy the saltwater pool morning, noon or night, situated on the hotel’s private rooftop surrounded by the charming garden with vibrant fresh flowers. Plus, no need to panic if you forget your swimwear – bikinis are available for purchase in each room! www.visitwesthollywood.com
Belmond El Encanto, Santa Barbara
Located in the American Riviera, the iconic Belmond El Encanto is situated atop a commanding hillside, offering 92 California-styled bungalows, terraced grounds and an expansive swimming pool with sweeping views of Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean. Original architectural features have been lovingly restored, including the historic, trellised-lined Arbor and Lily Pond. Recent additions include a new boutique spa, cementing the Belmond El Encanto as a must-visit for any guest seeking luxury and relaxation. www.santabarbaraca.com
World’s Best Swimming Pools: Colorado
Ouray Hot Springs Pool, Ouray
Nestled at the base of the San Juan Mountains, the Ouray Hot Springs Pool is a popular, year-round spot for visitors from around the world. In addition to lap swimming lanes, there are three different soaking pools, with temperatures ranging from 31 °C – 40 °C. The crystal clear waters are free from the strong smell of sulphur typically found at hot springs, making it the ideal place to relax, revitalise and rejuvenate. www.colorado.com
The Little Nell, Aspen
The Little Nell proudly stands as the only five-star, five-diamond Aspen Hotel. This ski-in, ski-out luxury accommodation is located at the base of Aspen Mountain, with a state-of-the-art fitness centre and outdoor swimming pool overlooking the snow-capped mountains. For a bit of homely luxury, guests can rent one of the private residences at The Little Nell, with a magnificent steamy rooftop pool that is the perfect relaxation spot after a day on the slopes. www.aspensnowmass.com
