From private plunge pools on the edge of wildlife reserves to infinity pools overlooking oceans and city skylines, join us as we dive into 12 of the most spectacular luxury hotel pools in the world.

Tambo del Inka, Sacred Valley, Peru

Photo credit: @hoteltambodelinkaon Instagram

You’ll be spoiled for choice at Tambo del Inka, with both heated indoor and outdoor pools, along with whirlpools, hydromassage pools, Vichy showers, and sub-aquatic beds as part of the world-class Kallpa Spa. The pools are stunning, with elegant wooden architecture and large floor-to-ceiling windows that allow natural light to flood the pool area. You can soak in the warm water while looking out over the beautiful views of the surrounding gardens, Andes Mountains and the Urubamba River Valley. Peaceful and luxurious, this is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. 

Experience this on: Treasures of the Incas

Read more: Step inside Peru’s blissful Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Leela Palace, New Delhi, India

Photo credit: @theleela on Instagram

If you like your luxury hotel pools with a view, the Leela Palace in New Delhi has got you covered. Head to the rooftop and you’ll discover a breathtaking infinity pool overlooking the city. The pool is temperature-controlled and a great place to cool down after exploring New Delhi. After your dip, visit the sauna or the spa for some rejuvenating treatments.

Experience this on: Essence of India

Read more: Step Inside the Most Unique Luxury Retreats in India

The Langtham, Sydney, Australia

Photo credit: @langhamsydney on Instagram

This elegant Sydney hotel did not skimp on its pool. The 65-foot indoor heated pool is the crown jewel of the Day Spa by Chuan at The Langham. Head underground to discover the peaceful turquoise waters, with a unique star-dappled ceiling overhead. The twinkling, starry sky ceiling creates a magically soothing environment. Surrounded by stone columns and two gorgeous beach murals, this is a beautiful sanctuary to swim, lounge and rejuvenate. 

Experience this on: Inspiring Australia

Read more: Expert selected: the 4 best hotel spas you can visit with Luxury Gold

Quisisana Hotel, Isle of Capri, Italy

Photo credit: @quisisanacapri on Instagram

Set in Capri’s central plaza, Quisisana Hotel is surrounded by the sublime beaches and Mediterranean coastline of Capri. But its pools have their own allure. The large heated outdoor infinity-edge swimming pool comes lined in marble with whirlpool jets. You can relax in the soothing water with a cocktail overlooking the ocean, or soak in the magical whirlpool jet surrounded by lush greenery. The world-class spa also features a heated indoor pool, Turkish bath, and sauna, so take your pick of the water elements.  

Experience this on: Ultimate Italy

Read more: The Isle of Dreams: How to Spend the Perfect Day in Capri

Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski, Saint Moritz, Switzerland

Photo credit: @kempinskistmoritz on Instagram

Set in the heart of the Swiss Alps, the Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski dishes up one of the most spectacular luxury hotel pools in the world. The 50-foot indoor pool is surrounded by dramatic marble columns and large glass windows serving up stunning mountain views. The pool is heated to 82°F in summer 86°F winter so you can soothe tired muscles after a big day on the slopes. The pool is part of the luxurious Alpine Spa, which also has four different saunas, a steam bath, laconium, a sun terrace, a separate ladies’ spa and state-of-the-art spa treatments. You can also walk through the Kneipps stream or drink the iron-rich mineral water directly from the famous Mauritius Spring here.

Experience this on: Majestic Switzerland

Read more: Dine, Sleep, Do: How to spend a chic 24 hours in St. Moritz

Ashford Castle, County Mayo, Ireland

Photo credit: @ashfordcastle on Instagram

Set within the beautiful bronze conservatory and overlooking Lough Corrib, Ashford Castle’s relaxation pool is simply gorgeous. With seashell chandeliers and the ‘Tree of Life’ Irish Celtic mural stretching the length of the pool, this is a unique pool experience that connects you to your destination. Relax with the pool’s seated jets or indulge in the steam room and spa, recently named the only Forbes Five-Star spa in Ireland.

Experience this on: Ultimate Ireland

Read more: Why This Hotel in Ireland Makes For the Ultimate Mother’s Day Getaway

Lion Sands Tinga Lodge, Kruger National Park, South Africa

Photo credit: @lionsandsgamereserve on Instagram

The Lion Sands Tinga Lodge is the only private game reserve in both the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Kruger National Park, offering some of the most luxurious suites and unique pool experiences in the country. The lodge has a large infinity pool overlooking the Sabi River, where you can soak while watching for wildlife below. If you prefer a private pool experience, each lavish suite has its own private plunge pool with views of the river. It’s a truly special experience to spot wildlife drinking and bathing in the river below, all from your private pool.

Experience this on: Spectacular South Africa

Read more: Where the wilderness and luxury combine: Step inside the Lion Sands Game Reserve

Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff, Canada

Photo credit: @fairmontbanff on Instagram

This iconic luxury hotel is home to an entire Aquatic Center, so you can choose from the heated indoor and outdoor saltwater pools, or relax in the bubbling hot tub. Enjoy a dip or swim laps, then order drinks and snacks directly to your lounge chair. Take in the awe-inspiring views of the mountains, forests and lakes of the Canadian Rockies, or indulge in the world-class spa treatments at Fairmont Banff Springs. 

Experience this on: Majesty of the Rockies 

Read more: Reconnect with the great outdoors at these luxurious back-to-nature retreats

Mena House Hotel, Cairo, Egypt

Photo credit: @marriottmenahousecairo on Instagram

Imagine staring up at the Great Pyramids of Giza all from your luxurious pool. That’s the experience you’ll enjoy at Mena House Hotel. The hotel’s pool was the first swimming pool in Egypt, opened in 1980, so you’ll be swimming in a slice of history here. The large heated outdoor pool is set among its 40 acres of lush gardens and lined with sunloungers, so you can kick back with a cocktail underneath the gaze of the ancient pyramids. 

Experience this on: Elegance of the Nile

Read more: Travel & Leisure names Mena House Hotel Cairo one of the world’s best

The St Regis, Toronto, Canada

Photo credit: @stregistoronto on Instagram

The St Regis Toronto is luxurious in every way, and that doesn’t end at the pool. Head to The Spa on the 31st floor and you’ll find a 65-foot infinity-edge saltwater lap pool, whirlpool, sauna and steam room. Whether you like to swim laps or sip champagne in the water while admiring the views, this is the ultimate hotel pool sanctuary. The 31st floor also includes an ultra-luxurious spa and fitness center.

Experience this on: Indulgence in Eastern Canada

Read more: Our top 10 hand-picked luxury hotel stays for 2023

The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, Cape Town, South Africa

Photo credit: @12apostleshotel on Instagram

Flanked by the Table Mountain National Park and the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range, the luxury hotel pools at The Twelve Apostles Hotel are truly divine. There’s two to choose from, starting with the heated infinity pool that looks out over the Atlantic Ocean and is lined with comfortable sun-loungers. There’s a good chance of spotting pods of dolphins or Southern Right Whales from this pool.  You can also head to the gorgeous rock pools, with views of the rugged Table Mountain. Lounge service is available at both pools, with a menu of light meals and drinks. There’s even a complimentary refreshment station with sun lotion, water, fruit and magazines for you to enjoy. If you love to relax, be sure to check out the hotel’s award-winning luxury spa. 

Experience this on: Spectacular South Africa

Read more: How to spend 24 hours at 7 of the most exquisite hotels around the world

Dunloe Hotel, County Kerry, Ireland

Photo credit: @thedunloehotel on Instagram

The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens underwent a major €19 million refurbishment in 2018, resulting in a striking and elegant hotel, designed by Swiss architects Monoplan. The swimming pool got the same treatment. The heated, indoor 82-foot pool is now the ultimate place to relax or swim laps. The pool area features poolside loungers and floor-to-ceiling glass windows with views of the lush green countryside and Macgillycuddy Reeks mountain range. There’s also an onsite spa with a steam room, sauna, and gym. 

Experience this on: Castles & Kingdoms

Read more: The best hotel in Ireland? Dunloe Hotel is certainly a firm contender

She’s been primped and primed for attention and now all eyes are on the world’s biggest superyacht. Hailed as the world’s most exclusive address, superyacht Somnio was unveiled earlier in the year without any interior images. Now, the first official renders of the interiors are here, and it’s a showstopper. We take a look at some of the stunning images and dive into all the lavish details surrounding Somnio. 

Read more: These are 2023’s most remarkable luxury travel trends

Somnio’s exterior by Winch Design

Record-breaking size

Somnio will be the biggest yacht in the world by both length and volume. This enormous 728-foot vessel has the size and grandeur of a cruise ship, all while retaining the sophistication and luxury of a superyacht. 

The vessel will house 39 luxury apartments across six decks making it the world’s largest residential superyacht. With the total outfitting costing around 500 million Euros, the luxury apartments will start at 20 million Euros. 

Read more: Secret islands and snowy retreats: 5 hotspots loved by the British Royal family

Somnio’s interior by Luttenberger Design

Exclusivity

All that size comes with extreme exclusivity. The luxury apartments are available by invitation or referral only, and the identity of the owners will remain a tightly guarded secret. 

Luxury apartments

The lavish apartments range in size from 1,600 square feet up to more than 6,500 square feet and each has a private balcony or terrace to soak up the sea breeze. If that’s not impressive enough, the largest condo spans almost the entire top deck. 

Each of the 39 apartments is customizable and owners can work with either Winch Design, Tillberg Design of Sweden or Luttenberger Design to create a tailored design for their pad. You can choose from bespoke features such as a private kitchen, gym, library, dressing rooms, and al fresco dining spaces with 270° views. From room configurations and furniture to lighting, artwork, bedding and cutlery, this is a truly custom experience. Owners can even bring in their own interior decorator to ensure a personal touch. 

With the strict exclusivity and the detailed customization, this is like living on your own private yacht – without actually buying one. 

Co-founder Captain Erik Bredhe says, “Beauty may be found as much on the inside of Somnio as it is on the outside. As the only residential superyacht in the world, we are delighted to work with designers that complement our exacting standards. Our owners will experience only the best, as is befitting of a yacht of this nature.” 

Read more: Why a Luxury River Cruise is the Best Way to Cruise

Somnio’s interior by Tillberg Design of Sweden

Somnio’s interior by Winch Design

Somnio’s interior by Luttenberger Design.

World-class amenities

Outside of the luxury, custom apartments, owners will have access to amenities on par with those found in the world’s most exclusive resorts, hotels and clubs. There will be a string of high-end restaurants and bars, including a 10,000-bottle wine cellar and tasting room. There’s also a glamorous beach club with a spate of pools and water sports facilities. As you roam all four corners of the globe, you’ll have a full concierge service to make the most of your experience on land and at sea. World-class medical care will also be available onboard, ensuring a high level of safety. 

Read more: See Vietnam in Style With These Three Exclusive Cruise Experiences

Somnio’s exterior by Winch Design

Global roaming

Somnio will travel the world with an extraordinary and ever-changing itinerary. With a focus on slow-paced travel, Somnio will take you from the Mediterranean to the South Pacific and from New York to Antarctica, all in a luxurious and exclusive environment.

Read more: Sun, Sand and Sequins: Why Summer is the Best Time to Visit These Glamorous Coastal Cities

Somnio’s exterior by Winch Design

Sustainability

Somnio will be built with cutting-edge clean engine technology. The designers have also thoughtfully chosen sustainable materials and products to create a greener interior design and reduce the environmental impact of the vessel. 

When does Somnio launch?

Luxury apartments are now available for purchase, with superyacht Somnio set to launch in mid-2024. Find out more on their website.

More images

Check out more renders of Somnio’s luxurious interior designs below.

Somnio’s interior by Luttenberger Design

Somnio’s interior by Luttenberger Design

Somnio’s interior by Luttenberger Design

Somnio’s interior by Winch Design

Somnio’s interior by Winch Design

Banner image credit: Winch Design

Live music is a universal language, transcending cultural and language barriers. With its powerful ability to stir emotions, evoke memories, and form deep connections, music is magical. An experience with private live music is even more unforgettable, offering an intimate connection between the artist and the audience. In a world where we often share our musical experiences in crowded venues, it’s a true privilege to experience a private encounter with musicians and their craft. We look at 7 of our most unique private live music experiences, from an exclusive concert in Hue to a recording session in Nashville. 

Read more: After Hours: Travel Like a VIP With These Exclusive Experiences

1. Experience an exclusive sunset dinner with local musicians in Rajasthan, India

The northern Indian state of Rajasthan has a rich cultural identity, and music is at the heart of it. Its desert folk songs have been passed down through generations for centuries, and there are several instruments only found in Rajasthan, including the dholak drum and the 17-stringed kamaicha.

You’ll be enchanted by the evocative sounds of Rajasthan’s desert folk music at an exclusive sunset banquet. As the sun sets over the soaring sand dunes of the Thar Desert, you’ll dine on traditional nomadic dishes, while local musicians serenade you with their distinct melodies. As the stars appear in the dark night sky, you’ll feel swept away in the magic of the music and the ancient desert. 

Experience this on: Imperial Rajasthan

Read more: Golden Moments in the Golden City: What Awaits Luxury Gold Guests in Jaisalmer

2. Enjoy a private concert at Camille Huyen’s family home in Hue, Vietnam

In the historic city of Hue, Luxury Gold guests will be invited into the home of the celebrated painter and singer, Camille Huyen. You’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and a private concert, with Camille serenading the group with traditional music. You’ll also explore the authentic home she shares with her husband, learning about their captivating journey and the dream that guided them back to Vietnam. A blend of music, art, and storytelling creates an unforgettable evening.

Experience this on: Sensational Vietnam & Laos & Inspiring Indochina

Read more: These Luxury Travel Experiences Will Never Go Out of Style

3. Record a song in a private session in Studio B in Nashville, USA

It’s one thing to listen to private live music. It’s another thing entirely to create it yourself. Luxury Gold guests will join a professional sound engineer at Nashville’s iconic Studio B, where you’ll record a take-home song, just as legends like Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton have done here before. Studio B was a cradle of music in the 1950s and 60s, with everyone from the Everly Brothers to Roy Orbison, Chet Atkins and Eddy Arnold recording here. 

As part of this rare recording session, you’ll also have a private session with a Nashville singer/songwriter to learn the stories behind the icons and how they created their famous songs – from the first notes to global success. Later, you’ll enjoy a live country music show at the Grand Ole Opry. 

If you’re traveling on a Founder’s Collection departure, you’ll even meet a music legend. You could meet the renowned Brenda Lee, the top-charting solo female singer in the 1960s, or Charlie McCoy, the Grammy-winning legend who’s collaborated with the likes of Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan and Loretta Lynn.

Experience this on: Southern Grace

Read more: Brenda Lee: The pop icon who inspired some of the biggest names in music

4. Witness a private musical performance in Neputa Village, Japan

The Tsugaru-han Neputa Village in the city of Hirosaki is home to the remarkable traditional arts and crafts of the region. You’ll see colorful decorations and enormous, intricate floats being prepared by skilled craftsmen for the summer festival, Neputa Matsuri. They take almost a year to create and will be paraded through the streets during this 300-year-old festival that also features vibrant performances of the Tsugaru-jamisen.

You’ll also witness a private music performance of Tsugaru Shamisen guitar and Taiko drumming. The rhythmic, heart-pounding beats of the drum combined with the soulful guitar strings tell spirited stories of ancient Japan. It’s a truly special experience to watch this traditional performance in such an intimate setting. 

Experience this on: Majestic Japan

Read more: Bird Costumes and Cherry Blossom: Why Spring is the Best Time to Visit Japan

5. Experience traditional Māori music in Rotorua, New Zealand

Get a rich insight into the culture of Māori, New Zealand’s Indigenous people, with this incredible experience in Rotorua. You’ll stroll through the ancient forest village with your local Māori guide and learn about traditional art forms. Later, you’ll indulge in a Hāngī feast, cooked traditionally in a pit oven using geothermal steam at Te Pā Tū. As you dig into your unique meal, you’ll witness a live cultural performance showcasing ancient stories, songs and performing arts. See the iconic Haka (war dance) and action dances, all surrounded by the enchanting forest of Rotorua. 

Experience this on: The Long White Cloud

Read more: Rugged luxury: Why a Trip to New Zealand Might Surprise You

6. Enjoy a private performance of Cante Alentejano in Lisbon, Portugal

Luxury Gold guests will enjoy a delicious Portuguese lunch all while witnessing a private live music performance of Cante Alentejano, a traditional polyphonic singing style from the Alentejo region of Portugal. This unique musical art form is characterized by its rich harmonies and distinctive vocal techniques. The soloists lead a verse and the group creates a powerful harmony. The mesmerizing songs tell the stories of love, nature, work and daily life in the rural region. The music is a beautiful way to get an insight into this regional culture. Cante Alentejano has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, for its cultural significance in the Alentejo region.

Experience this on: Spain & Portugal in Style

Read more: 5 timeless and beautiful European cities to re-discover this summer

7. Witness Indigenous music with Cree Warrior Women in the Canadian Rockies

Luxury Gold guests go beyond the spectacular landscapes of the Canadian Rockies, connecting with the traditional owners of the land. We’ll meet some of the First Nations Cree Warrior Women from the Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation in this exclusive, intimate experience. You’ll have the opportunity to talk with women, including matriarchs Matricia and Mackenzie Brown. Y learn about their Indigenous spirituality, culture and connection to their land. We’ll sit down to enjoy a fireside barbecue, all while witnessing a musical performance of storytelling through drumming and song. Set on the shores of Trefoil Lake in Jasper, you’ll gaze up at the beautiful Pyramid Mountain as you listen to the rhythmic drumming and singing. 

Experience this on: Majesty of the Rockies

Read more: Uncovering Indigenous history with Canada’s Warrior Women