From a Costa Rican rooftop to a Sri Lankan mountain lodge, here’ are our favourite swimming pools to cool off in this month. Words: Ramsay Short
It’s August. The heat is most definitely on. And we at UltraVilla know only the most perfect pool experience, down to the smallest detail, will do. Our standards are high so whether it’s an infinity pool with unsurpassed views or the perfect lap pool in the tropics UltraVilla has what you’re looking for.
BEST FOR SEA VIEWS
South Cove Dream, Mykonos, Greece
There are infinity pools and then there are infinity pools. Floating in South Cove Dream’s infinity pool on the Greek isle of Mykonos feels as if you are actually in the sublime waters of Ornos Bay below, the horizon stretching beyond. Located on the south side of the island and well sheltered from the wind, the villa is a minimalist designed whitewashed masterpiece with five ensuite bedrooms, surrounded by a mature garden and wide terrace. And with panoramic views, swimming to the chirp of cicadas and the sound of the sea has never been better.
Interested? Contact Aqvaliving for details
BEST BOND VILLAIN POOL
Timeless Jewel, Oahu, Hawaii
The pool in this incredible Oahu eight-bedroom property lies in a private interior courtyard and feels like a jungle oasis at the foot of a waterfall. It is simply spectacular – as is the home itself – and you won’t want to get out. Surrounded by grass and palms it’s even got two of its own mini-waterfalls to swim through. Lit up at night one can only imagine the secret passages you might enter through a hidden door in the stone. And after a dip you can even watch all the Bond movies you might wish for in the fully kitted out home cinema. Course make sure to swim out to your yacht from Kailua Bay, arguably Hawaii’s best beach just a short stroll from the villa. A truly stunning property. And a truly stunning pool.
Interested? Contact Hawaii Hideaways for details
BEST FOR INFINITY POOLS
Casa Buena Vista, Troncones, Mexico
We can safely say you’ve never seen a pool like this. Casa Buena Vista is a typically Mexican style villa with direct access to a long and virtually deserted beach but its highlight is undoubtedly the three-level infinity pool bordering an open palapa on one side and the beach on the other amid pretty tropical gardens. How to better describe it? Simply look at the pictures and dream of heaven.
Interested? Contact Carpe Diem Luxury Travel for details
BEST FOR DESIGN JUNKIES
Búzios Villa 4, Búzios, Brazil
Designed by starchitect Thiago Bernardes this is arguably the most striking house on one of the finest beaches (Manguinhos) in Búzios. Super spacious, all wood with inspiring interior touches, at times it feels almost minimal Japanese in style and all the while fitting perfectly within its environment. But let’s talk about the pool – long and rectangular in shape, open to the elements but lined by pillars and a retractable roof and surrounded by wood decking it is an impressive piece of design and the place where we guarantee you’ll spend most of your time.
Interested? Contact Matueté Villas for details
BEST FOR FAMILY FUN
Villa Lovelli, Capalbio, Argentario, Italy
A truly Roman-style rural villa with a 180° view of the sea, Mount Argentario and the countryside, the heated infinity pool is hidden on a lower level facing the house but with stunning views of the Med and surrounded by lawns and terraces. It’s perfect for relaxed swimming, lounging and playing with the kids while the villa itself boasts relaxed contemporary interiors and a superb art collection.
Interested? Contact Unique Properties and Events for details
BEST FOR ROMANCE
Villa Oasis de Salines, La Grand Saline, St Barthélemy
On arrival at this magnificent property most visitors find themselves praying for a longer stay. Positioned dramatically in the crest of a hill surrounded by 2.5 acres of lush tropical gardens with panoramic ocean views over a canopy of trees, the six-bedroom villa will have you doing nothing less than living the (romantic) dream. And then of course there are the pools: one 80ft lap pool and one 40ft pool with graded access, both heated and surrounded by spacious decks for sunbathing and incredible views. Skinny-dip anyone?
Interested? Contact St. Barth Properties for details
