Cool in the pool

The 5 most spectacular hotel pools in Europe

A hotel that takes pride in itself usually has a pool. A hotel that makes the hearts of architecture and design lovers beat faster also has a pool that is more than just a water-filled rectangle. The Connoisseur Circle has gone on a search for you and presents five of the most spectacular hotel pools in Europe:


Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Antibes/France

The luxurious Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, a member of the renowned Oetker Collection, is celebrating its 150th birthday this year. The seawater pool, carved into the rock above the ocean, has only been around since 1914, but celebrities such as Marlene Dietrich, Pablo Picasso, Rita Hayworth, Madonna and Sharon Stone have all swum here. Who could blame them? The view is truly unique. www.oetkercolleciton.com


The Cambrian, Adelboden/Switzerland

In summer and winter alike, The Cambrian is a hotspot in the heart of the Swiss Alps. The Design Hotels member is rightly proud of its infinity pool. From here, you can look out over the impressive Swiss mountains, year-round snow-capped peaks and green alpine pastures. Taking a deep breath here, switching off and relaxing with your soul has a rejuvenating effect on a mind stressed by everyday life. www.thechambrianadelboden.com


Canaves Oia, Santorini/Greece

The multi-award-winning resort, consisting of a hotel, suites section and villa, boasts many small pools that are gleaming white in typical Santorini style. However, the hotel's main pool is particularly picturesque. From here you can enjoy magnificent views of the caldera, across the blue waters of the sea to the horizon. The River Pool Suite, which has a plunge pool that meanders from indoors to outdoors, is also particularly pretty. www.canaves.com

Belmond Hotel Caruso, Ravello/Italy
Housed in a former palazzo dating back to the 11th century, this luxury hotel will satisfy even the most discerning traveler. Sure, the marble corridors, the rooms full of antiques and the service are fascinating - but the view from the infinity pool is incomparable, as it falls from the 300-metre-high cliff on which the hotel is situated down to the sea and, on the other side, to the enchanting houses of the Amalfi Coast. www.belmond.com


Hotel Arts, Barcelona/Spain

The name says it all - even when you're swimming in the pool of this luxurious hotel in the Spanish capital. Always in view: the fish sculpture designed by star architect Frank Gehry, which is one of the city's landmarks. The hotel is located directly on the port of Barcelona and is also known for its artistic façade made of blue glass and steel as well as the view of the Mediterranean and Port Olimpic. www.ritzcarlton.com