TRAVEL FOR SENSES CHOOSES TOP 5 HOTELS WITH THE BEST POOLS!

By: Christian Stan | 22 January, 2015

We love swimming and based on our travel experiences so far, we have selected for you the hotels with the best unforgettable views from their swimming pools. From the amazing sky pool of Sofitel So in Bangkok to the more exotic one of Cinnamon Lodge Habarana in Sri Lanka, here is our personal top five.

There is nothing in the world  I love more than having my bags ready and checking-in at the airport for another flight, taking me me to a new and exciting destination. And when I get to my hotel, I love putting on my swimming trunks and heading to the pool for some well deserved quiet moments and some 1000 meter marathon swim. I must confess that I often choose the hotels after checking online pictures of their pools and here are my favorites ones…

1. SOFITEL SO BANGKOK

There are so many stories to be told about the amazing Sofitel So Bangkok (more in an upcoming future report), but its pool, situated on the 10th floor, is the most special of all offering incredible views over Lumphini Park and the Sathorn District, filled with a lot of interesting sky scrapers.

Extending over 32 meteres, Sofitel So Bangkok’s infinity swimming pool is a luxury lap pool with low chlorine content. The water seemingly flows over the negative edge into the park and skyline beyond, giving the impression of swimming in mid-air, high above the bustling city streets.

Tunes are piped in directly for a watery soundtrack, while at night, underwater LED lights create ever-changing shades of vibrant colour. An oasis lawn — ‘Solarium’ — offers a sun-soaked spot for tanning or starlit venue for exclusive evening events.

2. CINNAMON LODGE HABARANA, SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka is one of the most special countries I have had the chance to visit up to now and staying at the Cinnamon Lodge in the middle of the jungle was one experience I will never forget. The time seems to stand still here, offering guests the posibility to experience serenity and tranquility while walking along the paths that lead up to the chalet-type rooms.

The architect of the property derived his inspiration from the glorious remains of Ritigala – a monastery dating back to the 6th century. Habarana is  the centre of the Cultural Triangle made up of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy; therefore the perfect epicenter to explore the glorious past of Sri Lanka

Its large, uniquely designed swimming pool is the perfect spot to relax after spending a day visiting the Bhudist temples or spotting elephants in their natural habitat. There are lots of monkeys around the pool so make sure not to leave your wallet or sunglasses unattended.

3. OHLA HOTEL, BARCELONA

Swimming in the sky while staying in the very centre of Barcelona is now possible if you book your vacation at the fabulous Ohla Hotel. Located on the top floor of the building this unique space is built around a spectacular glazed swimming pool that immediatly becomes the center of attraction. This is the ideal place for sunbathing or simply relaxing, gazing upon the magical city of Barcelona.

4. AL BUSTAN PALACE HOTEL, OMAN

Tucked away between the rugged Al Hajar mountain range and the Sea of Oman, Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel is a hidden jewel amongst Muscat hotels, a beachfront retreat that welcomes guests with customs steeped in ancient traditions and contemporary comfort. From each of hotel’s 250 guest rooms and suites private balconies, you can gaze upon magnificent mountain, sea or garden views.

Besides the golden lobby and the incredible service what I loved the most about this hotel was its amazing 50-meter temperature–controlled infinity pool. You will be surprised to see  huge palm trees rising from the water on the both sides of the pool. Plunging here for a swim is one unforgettable experience.

5. GLORIA SERENITY RESORT, TURKEY

I would generally not recommend spending your vacation at one of the all-inclusive resorts unless you have children, as it represents a comfortable alternative in this case. But even as a young couple you can have quiet and intimate moments if you book one private villa at Gloria Serenity Resort in Turkey.

 

Each of the private villas offers direct access to a huge sea water pool that surrounds the main building. Pool service is offered to accommodate your needs throughout the day. It’s the ideal place for a romantic weekend getaway.