Burj Al Arab Jumeirah in Dubai
Travel Guide
Our Favorite Indoor Pools Around the World
For those of us not lucky enough to live in a tropical climate—we’re jealous, Miami!—we’ve compiled a list of luxurious indoor pools made specifically for the ultimate in R&R, no matter the weather. From jaw-dropping views to opulent design, these must-visit (and heated!) pools offer you a slice of that summertime leisure—with or without the sunshine.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah — Dubai
Located atop the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, one of the tallest hotels in the world, this lavish indoor infinity pool boasts intricate design work and sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows. Pro tip: Book the romantic moonlight swim and take in the city’s glittering skyline while relaxing in the rose petal-adorned pool.
Located atop the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, one of the tallest hotels in the world, this lavish indoor infinity pool boasts intricate design work and sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows. Pro tip: Book the romantic moonlight swim and take in the city’s glittering skyline while relaxing in the rose petal-adorned pool.
Ireland's Ashford Castle, on the shore of Lough Corrib
Ashford Castle — County Mayo, Ireland
Few places on this list have the history of Ashford Castle, which dates back to medieval times and previously served as the home of the Guinness family (yes, those stout Guinesses). Revamped in 2015 under new ownership—and after a $75 million infusion—Ashford offers all the bragging rights of castle living: a 350-acre estate, a 32-seat cinema, scenic grounds for zip-lining, falconry, horseback riding, archery and—our favorite—an indoor pool, in a bronze conservatory, featuring a soothing mural by ceramic artist Jane du Rand.
Few places on this list have the history of Ashford Castle, which dates back to medieval times and previously served as the home of the Guinness family (yes, those stout Guinesses). Revamped in 2015 under new ownership—and after a $75 million infusion—Ashford offers all the bragging rights of castle living: a 350-acre estate, a 32-seat cinema, scenic grounds for zip-lining, falconry, horseback riding, archery and—our favorite—an indoor pool, in a bronze conservatory, featuring a soothing mural by ceramic artist Jane du Rand.
Shangri-La Hotel in Paris, France
Shangri-La — Paris, France
Swimming in natural light and decorated with sophisticated friezes, the indoor pool at the outstanding Shangri-La was designed by renowned interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon. It’s also the largest indoor pool in Paris, which only adds to its impressive aesthetic.
Swimming in natural light and decorated with sophisticated friezes, the indoor pool at the outstanding Shangri-La was designed by renowned interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon. It’s also the largest indoor pool in Paris, which only adds to its impressive aesthetic.
The Langham in Sydney, Australia
The Langham — Sydney, Australia
Who cares if it's chilly outside when you're lounging by the pool at one of Sydney's top resorts? With a trompe l'oeil ceiling of the gorgeous night sky, you can pretend you're outdoors basking in some sun-kissed destination. Take a dip in the heated waters, surrounded by artful beach murals, or head to the nearby spa for a stress-melting treatment—or two.
Who cares if it's chilly outside when you're lounging by the pool at one of Sydney's top resorts? With a trompe l'oeil ceiling of the gorgeous night sky, you can pretend you're outdoors basking in some sun-kissed destination. Take a dip in the heated waters, surrounded by artful beach murals, or head to the nearby spa for a stress-melting treatment—or two.
Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California
Hearst Castle — San Simeon, California
Breathtaking is the word we’d use to describe The Roman Pool at the famed Hearst Castle in California. With its decadent design, including elaborate mosaic work, marble sculptures, and cobalt-blue glass tiles, the ultra-exclusive pool is now open to the public—if you can afford it. Join The Foundation at Hearst Castle and make a donation (which helps support the castle’s art conservation and education programs) for your chance to swim at this storied, majestic pool.
Breathtaking is the word we’d use to describe The Roman Pool at the famed Hearst Castle in California. With its decadent design, including elaborate mosaic work, marble sculptures, and cobalt-blue glass tiles, the ultra-exclusive pool is now open to the public—if you can afford it. Join The Foundation at Hearst Castle and make a donation (which helps support the castle’s art conservation and education programs) for your chance to swim at this storied, majestic pool.
La Mamounia in Marrakech, Morocco
La Mamounia — Marrakech, Morocco
Named "Best Hotel in the World" at the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award in 2018, La Mamounia is a treat for both the eyes and the soul. And its spectacular indoor pool—with its grand columns, plush seating, and magnificent tilework—is nothing short of a regal experience. But make sure to book a trip before May 25th—that's when the resort closes for renovations (through September 1st).
Named "Best Hotel in the World" at the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award in 2018, La Mamounia is a treat for both the eyes and the soul. And its spectacular indoor pool—with its grand columns, plush seating, and magnificent tilework—is nothing short of a regal experience. But make sure to book a trip before May 25th—that's when the resort closes for renovations (through September 1st).
Chile's Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa on the outskirts of Torres del Paine National Park
Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa — Torres de Paine, Chile
Delight in the Great Outdoors—while kicking back poolside with a good book. There are no decorative murals or lavish interiors like some of the other spots on this list; the selling point here are the floor-to-ceiling windows with unobstructed wildlife views. It's like stepping into a David Attenborough documentary—and enjoying a bonus hydro massage at the same time.
Delight in the Great Outdoors—while kicking back poolside with a good book. There are no decorative murals or lavish interiors like some of the other spots on this list; the selling point here are the floor-to-ceiling windows with unobstructed wildlife views. It's like stepping into a David Attenborough documentary—and enjoying a bonus hydro massage at the same time.
