LONDON, June 30, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — TripAdvisor(R), the world’s most popular and largest travel community, today announced the top ten most amazing hotel pools from around the world, according to TripAdvisor editors and travellers. From never-ending infinity pools to massive shark tanks these stunning pools are the aquatic places to see and be seen.
1). Hotel Caruso Ravello, Ravello, Italy
Situated on top of the mountains on the Amalfi coast, this 11th century palace has been caringly restored to its former glory. The heated infinity pool is the centerpiece of the hotel and features top-notch poolside service, enabling travellers to fully relax. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “The infinity pool was 28 degrees and the views from it are stunning.”
2). Banyan Tree Seychelles, Mahe Island, Seychelles
Situated on Intendance Bay, each of the 60 pool villas in Banyan Tree Seychelles has spectacular views of the Indian Ocean. The villas come equipped with verandas, sun loungers and open-air pavilions so you can take in the natural surroundings in comfort and style. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “We stayed in a pool villa, which had its own infinity pool. You have total privacy and cannot see or be seen by any other villa…I wanted to pinch myself as I thought I was dreaming.”
3). Blue Lagoon Clinic, Grindavik, Iceland
The Blue Lagoon Clinic hotel in Iceland has been awarded many times for its environmental practices. Surrounded by a moon-esque surface volcanic formed landscape, guests can enjoy healing and relaxing in warm geothermal seawater in the lagoon – the main attraction for travellers staying there. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “We headed into the clinic pools and floated around on the inner tubes. My face feels soft and is still glowing from the silica mud mask.”
4). Como Shambhala Estate at Begawan Giri, Bali, Indonesia
At Como Shambhala Estate in Bali, surrounded by forest, water is the key element in this healing hotel – guests can enjoy the tranquility of the infinity pool that uses chlorine-free water from a nearby sacred spring. Other features include high-pressure water jets for massages and exercise. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “Hike down to the rock pools in the middle of the ‘hotels own jungle’, the scenery is just fantastic and you will find perfectly white beds and clean towels close to every pool.”
5). Six Senses Hideaway, Zighy Bay, Oman
Set in a dramatic landscape surrounded by mountains on one side and sandy beaches on the other, Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay in Oman contains 82 private pool villas, and also access to its own private marina. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “This place is a little slice of heaven. Kick your shoes off dive in to your own plunge pool and switch off from the rest of the world.”
6). Perivolas, Santorini, Greece
Perched high on the cliffs above the Aegean Sea, this small, luxury hotel comes equipped with a private Jacuzzi in every suite, and a large infinity pool to watch the incredible sunsets next to the charming and tranquil village of Oia. As one TripAdvisor traveller said: “The views are breathtaking, the infinity pool is probably one of the prettiest in the world – I could have stayed at Perivolas for my entire trip.”
7). Hotel Atlantis, Nassau, Bahamas
From temple pools to grotto pools – the famous Atlantis Hotel in the Bahamas has more than 11 refreshing and unique waterscapes, perfect for the family or for couples looking to get away from it all. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “All the pools (of which there were so many I lost count), seem to have something unique about them. It made exploring with the kids a whole lot of fun.”
8). Hotel Villa Mahal, Kalkan, Turkey
Located in Kalkan Bay, Turkey, this small and sophisticated hotel is ideal for relaxing and revitalising. Fall asleep in a hammock by the beach or enjoy the infinity pool, complete with its own Jacuzzi and amazing views over the Mediterranean. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “The hotel has a fantastic set-up by the infinity pool, with your drink and delicious food being served by the water’s edge is like a dream.”
9). The Library, Koh Samui, Thailand
The Library boasts a vibrant red-coloured pool (thanks to red-tiling) that’s only a few feet away from the white sandy beach of Chaweng. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “The pool was the main draw for the hotel with its red mosaic tiles. It’s definitely something we have never seen before. The poolside area is also fantastic with large beanbags for you to laze on under the sun.”
10). Golden Nugget, Las Vegas, USA
The trendy Golden Nugget pool in Las Vegas, known as ‘The Tank’ is a brand new complex that’s home to sharks, exotic fish and other sea creatures – enjoy the underwater wildlife whilst sipping a cocktail at the poolside H20 bar. As one TripAdvisor traveller said, “The pool area is beautiful with several lounging areas and an outdoor aquarium that sits in the centre of the pool, enjoy watching the sharks while you swim!”