The world’s newest hotels compete not only through their historic character, architecture and approach to hospitality, but also with extraordinary pools distinguished by their striking designs.
Contents
Vista Ostuni, Puglia
Recently opened Vista Ostuni is a five-star luxury boutique hotel located in the town of Ostuni, known as La Città Bianca, or the “White City”, in Italy’s Puglia region. Created through the restoration of a former tobacco factory, the hotel offers sustainable luxury against sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea and Ostuni.
Surrounded by centuries-old olive trees, the building has been renovated while preserving its historic character. Vista Ostuni features 28 elegant rooms and suites designed with local craftsmanship, stone and timber details. Its outdoor swimming pool captivates guests with an enchanting view of the White City.
Angama Amboseli, Kenya
We are at a safari lodge in Kenya’s Amboseli ecosystem, overlooking Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. A sister property to the world-renowned Angama Mara in the Maasai Mara, Angama Amboseli opened its doors last year and stands out with an original design inspired by two giants of the region: Mount Kilimanjaro and the “Super Tusker” elephants, known for their enormous tusks that can almost reach the ground.
The lodge offers accommodation in luxurious tented suites designed with natural textures, canvas, stone and contemporary details, each opening onto uninterrupted views of Kilimanjaro. Directly in front of Angama Amboseli’s iconic infinity pool is a watering hole created especially for elephants. This makes it possible to watch them drinking from remarkably close range while swimming in the pool.
One&Only Kéa Island, Greece
One&Only Kéa Island is one of the newest and most luxurious hotels in Greece’s Cyclades. Opened as the brand’s second destination in the country, the hotel promises a secluded and peaceful Aegean escape, far removed from mass tourism despite its proximity to Athens.
Designed by renowned architect John Heah, One&Only Kéa Island comprises 63 luxury villas built into the cliffs, as well as a collection of private residences. Local white marble, floor-to-ceiling windows, private infinity pools and fireplaces are among the defining features of the villas.
Perhaps the hotel’s most remarkable feature, however, is its exceptional swimming pool. Beginning inside the vast One&Only Spa and extending outdoors towards the Aegean Sea, the indoor-outdoor pool is an inviting destination for guests seeking relaxation throughout the day.
Villa Beatrice, Portofino
Villa Beatrice is an ultra-luxurious historic residence located in Portofino, one of the most iconic destinations on the Italian Riviera. Built in 1913 by celebrated architect Gino Coppedè in a fusion of Art Nouveau and Gothic Revival styles, the property served members of the Italian aristocracy for many years. It has now been restored by luxury hospitality group Belmond and reopened as an exclusive private rental.
Together with La Casetta, a secluded one-bedroom stone guesthouse hidden within the gardens, the villa offers a total of five suites and is rented exclusively to private groups or families. Its extraordinary swimming pool and sun terrace, overlooking the Mediterranean, are set at the heart of subtropical gardens designed by renowned landscape architect Marco Bay.
Casa Bonavita, Malta
Located in the historic Maltese town of Attard, Casa Bonavita occupies an 18th-century palace and opened its doors in May. The hotel was brought to life by its owners, Christopher and Suzanne Sharp, founders of the internationally renowned brand The Rug Company, following a meticulous 15-year restoration.
The property features 17 luxurious rooms and suites, each individually decorated. Staying true to Malta’s historic character, the interiors are distinguished by frescoed ceilings, Sicilian marble, Murano glass, handcrafted ceramics and rare antiques.
Behind the palace’s honey-coloured limestone walls lies a palm-fringed swimming pool surrounded by the fragrance of jasmine and orange blossom, offering an idyllic setting for all-day relaxation.
Fregate Island Private, Seychelles
Expected to reopen very soon, Fregate Island Private is an environmentally conscious, ultra-luxury private island resort in the Seychelles, one of the Indian Ocean’s most sought-after island destinations.
Located 55 kilometres east of the main island of Mahé, the 2.19-square-kilometre granite island functions as a genuine wildlife sanctuary thanks to its extensive conservation initiatives. Completely rebuilt using glass, stone and lightweight timber to blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings, the resort features 14 ultra-luxurious villas with private pools and three expansive estates.
Each villa and estate has its own 20-metre swimming pool. It is also worth noting that Fregate Island Private is home to seven pristine white-sand beaches, including the celebrated Anse Victorin, which has repeatedly been named the “World’s Best Beach” by The Times.
Il San Pietro di Positano, Amalfi Coast
Il San Pietro di Positano is one of the world’s most iconic hotels, located on Italy’s Amalfi Coast. A member of Relais & Châteaux, the hotel appears to be suspended above the sea from its dramatic clifftop setting just outside the town of Positano. It is renowned for its distinctive architecture and breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
All rooms have private terraces and sea views, while both the guest rooms and public spaces are distinguished by handcrafted traditional Vietri ceramics, antiques and a refined interpretation of contemporary Mediterranean style.
The swimming pool is situated below the main building on one of the terraces overlooking the sea. Surrounded by the lemon trees, olive groves and fragrant Mediterranean plants emblematic of the Amalfi Coast, the pool offers deep-blue views of the Mediterranean and is one of the hotel’s most popular places to linger.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is an ultra-luxury resort in the North Malé Atoll that combines minimalist contemporary architecture with the natural beauty of the Maldives.
Designed by the award-winning Kerry Hill Architects, the hotel is celebrated for its circular architecture inspired by the movement of the ocean, private pools accompanying every villa and dedicated butler service. The resort has 100 villas, all of which feature private infinity pools, sun terraces and indoor and outdoor showers.
The circular infinity pool at Eau Bar is the defining symbol of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Reflecting the resort’s overall architectural philosophy, the pool appears to merge seamlessly with the turquoise lagoon. Guests can enjoy ocean views throughout the day, while at sunset they can watch traditional Maldivian Boduberu dance and music performances.
