Hotels with exceptional pools: a comparison of rooftop, indoor and natural pools

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to swim in a crystal-clear infinity pool that seems to flow right into the horizon? Or gliding in a natural pool that blends harmoniously into the surrounding landscape? Perhaps you also dream of relaxing in an exclusive rooftop pool while the vibrant life of a metropolis rages on beneath you?

Why exceptional hotel pools are more than just water

An exceptional hotel pool is no longer just a place to swim — it has become a central element of the hotel experience. At a time when we're looking for unique experiences and Instagram-worthy moments, boutique hotels around the world have begun to transform their pools into breathtaking works of art, natural wonders, or architectural masterpieces. They are places of relaxation, social encounter and sometimes even spiritual experience.
‍

Jade Mountain Resort, St. Lucia: The ultimate infinity dream

One of the world's most impressive infinity pools sits high above the Caribbean Sea. When you enter your private sanctuary at Jade Mountain Resort, you're bound to catch your breath. The open room concept leads directly to your personal infinity pool, which seamlessly merges with the horizon and offers unobstructed views of the majestic Pitons Mountains.

The morning hours in the pool are characterized by an almost mystical peace. While the first rays of sun transform the water surface into a sparkling sea of diamonds, the view sweeps over the lush tropical landscape and the turquoise-blue sea. The water itself feels silky, and the perfect temperature makes you want to spend hours in the pool.

With twilight, the atmosphere changes. The setting sun bathes the pool in warm, golden light before the night sky is covered by a sparkling sea of stars. The scent of exotic flowers blends with the warm Caribbean evening air. A sip of the in-house “Piton Sunset” — a creation made from local rum, fresh coconut milk and a whiff of mango puree — completes the sensory experience perfectly.

This pool is particularly suitable for travelers who are looking for the ultimate luxury experience in a private atmosphere and are ready to dig deeper into their pockets for this unparalleled view. Photographers and nature lovers will love the endless photo opportunities, while romantics can enjoy the magical sunset as a couple.
‍

Naturhotel Stanglwirt, Austria: Dive into the alpine idyll

In the Austrian Alps, surrounded by majestic mountain peaks and fragrant coniferous forests, there is a completely different pool experience. The natural pool at the family-run Biohotel Stanglwirt is a biologically purified water basin that does not require chemicals and blends harmoniously into the alpine landscape.

Diving into this pool in the morning is like gliding into a cool mountain lake. The water is crystal clear but not chlorine-pure — it smells of nature, minerals and life. Native aquatic plants grow at the edge of the pool, which are not only beautiful to look at, but also take on natural filter functions.

The background noise is characterized by calming birdsong and the gentle rustling of leaves in the surrounding trees. In the distance, the majestic Wilder Kaiser massif stands out, so close that you think you can touch the rock walls with outstretched arms.

On hot summer days, the natural pool offers refreshing refreshment, while in winter, the adjacent heated infinity pool attracts visitors with an unforgettable contrasting program: While the body is surrounded by warm water, soft snowflakes fall on the face and shoulders — a fascinating interplay of elements.

The culinary offerings at the pool include regional specialities such as fresh alpine herb lemonades and homemade snacks with products from our own organic farm. Here you can taste the connection with nature in every bite.

This location is ideal for nature lovers, environmentally conscious people and anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Families appreciate the child-friendly design without sacrificing luxury, while wellness enthusiasts appreciate the regenerative power of untreated water.
‍

Ellerman House, Cape Town: indoor pool with panoramic views

In a historic villa in the exclusive Bantry Bay district of Cape Town, there is an indoor pool experience that is second to none. The Ellerman House boutique hotel has positioned its pool in a modern extension and furnished with huge, floor-to-ceiling glass fronts that offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles.

The magic of this pool lies in its contrast: The shimmering turquoise-blue water looks like a tranquil retreat, while the dramatic natural backdrop outside provides constant visual stimulation. The glass front is designed to look like a gigantic picture window — during the day, it captures the intense African sunlight and immerses the pool in a fascinating play of light and shadow; at night, the stars are reflected in the water and create an almost magical atmosphere.

The acoustics in the pool area are unique. The special architecture and materials used create a soft reverberating effect that gives swimming an almost meditative dimension. The water temperature is kept constantly at a pleasant 29 degrees — a pleasant contrast to the sometimes cool winds that blow from the Atlantic.

After swimming, guests are treated to South African wines from the in-house collection and snacks that reflect the country's culinary traditions. A glass of Pinotage accompanied by local olives and biltong (air-dried meat) tastes better than here, with this view.

This indoor pool is particularly appealing to art and design lovers, but also travelers who value absolute privacy — with just a few rooms, you can find quiet moments of relaxation here, even in high season. Those interested in culture will also appreciate the hotel's impressive South African art collection.
‍

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island: underwater suite with panoramic views

With its “The Muraka” residence, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers an exceptional underwater experience that contrasts the Soneva Jani transparent pool with an impressive alternative.

This two-story residence has an underwater area with a fully glazed suite located 5 meters below sea level. The adjacent pool on the surface appears to flow seamlessly into the sea and creates a similar feeling of merging between pool water and ocean.

The special thing about Conrad is the 180-degree panoramic view of the coral reef directly from the bedroom and bathroom. While you swim on the surface in the private infinity pool, you can also watch the underwater world through the glass ceiling of the suite below.

The water temperature is perfectly adapted to the tropical climate, and the pool water, slightly enriched with sea salt, gives the skin a velvety feel. The resort's butlers serve exotic cocktails with fresh fruit and local specialties, such as freshly grilled lobster with coconut sauce, right by the pool.

The evening hours are particularly impressive when the underwater suite's soft lighting illuminates the surrounding reef and attracts nocturnal sea creatures. The unique underwater acoustics — the gentle cracking of the reef and the subdued wave movements — create a meditative atmosphere.

This alternative is great for couples looking for an unforgettable luxury experience, as well as ocean lovers and photographers who want to experience the underwater world from a completely new perspective.

Hotel Villa Honegg: Infinity enjoyment over Lake Lucerne

Hotel Villa Honegg is an exclusive five-star boutique hotel in a restored Art Nouveau building from 1905. Perched high up on the Bürgenstock, it towers 914 meters above sea level — and offers one of the most spectacular heated outdoor infinity pools in Europe.

The pool is open all year round and heated to a pleasant 34 degrees Celsius — perfect for relaxing in pleasantly warm water even in winter with snow-covered hair. The highlight: The uninterrupted panoramic view of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps. On clear days, the horizon appears endless, while in fog, the silhouettes of the mountains are mystical — like a vivid Swiss watercolor.

The experience in the pool is multi-sensory: The clear mountain air, the gentle bubbling of water jets, the play of light and steam in the morning or evening sun — all of this creates a moment of complete deceleration. It is particularly magical in the blue hour when the lights of the surrounding villages are reflected in the water and the hotel is softly illuminated.

You will be spoiled with alpine delicacies right after the bath — such as homemade rösti with mountain cheese and truffles or a light herbal soup from the hotel's own garden kitchen.

This place appeals primarily to peace seekers, wellness lovers and photographers. Anyone who appreciates the luxury of silence, far away from mass tourism, will find a pool here that is unforgettable not only because of its location, but also because of its sense of space and security.

Conclusion: Why an exceptional pool should determine your next travel destination

A boutique hotel with an exceptional pool offers more than just accommodation — it creates memories that last a lifetime. Whether you're swimming in a private infinity pool with views of Caribbean mountain peaks, diving into a natural alpine lake, admiring the architecture of an exclusive indoor pool, or viewing the underwater world from a completely new perspective, these experiences change the way you travel and connect with your destination.

An exceptional pool can be the heart of your vacation, a place where you can relax, recharge your batteries and experience the essence of your destination in a very special way. It is a window to local culture, the surrounding nature, or the architectural vision of a place.

Dare to put the pool at the center of your decision when planning your next trip. Look for the extraordinary, the surprising and the unforgettable. Because sometimes it is precisely these special water oases that allow us to dive the deepest — not just into the cool water, but into the true essence of a place and its stories.

Practical tips for your booking:

• For exclusive infinity pools such as the Jade Mountain Resort, early reservation is recommended, especially in high season, as these boutique hotels often only have a few rooms.
• Natural pools such as those at the Stanglwirt are best in late summer and early fall, when the aquatic plants are in full bloom.
• For indoor pools such as Ellerman House, the winter months are also ideal — so you can enjoy an unforgettable bathing experience even in bad weather.
• Find out in advance about special pool packages or limited-time offers — many boutique hotels offer special experiences such as full moon swimming or poolside culinary events.