Summary
Let’s all agree: There are hotels worth traveling for. We asked iBestTravel‘s A-List of travel advisors to share their favorite pools and suites — from the cozy rooms at the Royal Crescent Hotel in the historic town of Bath to the ornate, three-story riads hidden behind the red walls of Marrakech.
Istanbul
“I like the pool of Ciragan Palace Kempinski in Istanbul. You feel as if you’re swimming in the Bosphorus Strait.” — Engin Kadaster, Turkey At Its Best
Lisbon
“As far as suites go, I was impressed with the amazing Ludovice Prestige Suite at the new Ludovice Palace Wine Hotel in Lisbon, which was once the home of royal architect João Ludovice. The modern, comfortable furniture contrasts with the 18th-century, blue-and-white glazed tiles on the walls, while a massive king-size bed sits in the center of the room. You can look out of the panoramic windows and see the old rooftops, including the Castle of St. George and one of the most well-known funiculars in the city.” — Gonçalo Correia, Tours for You
Mwiba Wildlife Reserve, Tanzania
“It would be harder to pick a more spectacular setting for a safari lodge than the hilltop chosen for Mwiba Lodge. Nestled among giant boulders between acacia and coral trees, it offers commanding views down to the rocky Arugusinyai River far below. The surrounding Mwiba Wildlife Reserve is home to Tanzanian tribes still maintaining traditional lifestyles, which means you can also immerse yourself in a sustainable Serengeti way of life.” — Susan Neva, Alluring Africa
Berkshire, England
“I love the Lady Astor Suite at Cliveden House just outside London. This is Lady Astor’s former bedroom, and it is just as decadent and plush as you would imagine, with antique furnishings and original pieces of art.” — Rachel Shoemaker, Louisa White
Paris
“The pool at Cheval Blanc in Paris is absolutely beautiful. The design and visual details (flying birds on the walls) make it a stand-out. It is so peaceful and a true haven in the middle of the city.” — Judy Stein, Ovation Travel
Marrakech
“My all-time favorite hotel suite is one of the three-story riads at the Royal Mansour Marrakech. Another would be the Jonquil Suite at Cap Juluca in Anguilla, steps from the beach, with a private pool and hammock so dreamy I could live there.” — Kendra Thornton, Royal Travel
Bath, England
“The suites at the Royal Crescent Hotel in Bath are classic and gorgeous: a roaring fire, comfy sofas. You feel like you’re in a Jane Austen novel.” — Kathy Stewart, Butterfield and Robinson
Lake Lucerne, Switzerland
“There are many amazing pools around the world, but my favorite (so far) is at the Burgenstock Resort in Lake Lucerne. There’s nothing like a cold winter night and enjoying a beautiful warm pool on the hillside above the lake — then maybe ducking inside for a hot sauna.” — Steve Orens, Plaza Travel
Canyon Point, Utah
“Amangiri on the Utah/Arizona border has the best suites. The property sits right on the rocks of a giant canyon, and guests can take part in fascinating excavation excursions.” — Betsy Donley, Camelback Travel
Londolozi Game Reserve, South Africa
“The Private Granite Suites at Londolozi Game Reserve overlook the Sand River. Watching a herd of elephants walk from your private swimming pool is hard to beat.” — Malaka Hilton, Admiral Travel
Ravello, Italy
“The infinity pool at the Belmond Hotel Caruso, which itself is a historic, 11th-century palace, hangs 1,000 feet above Ravello. The view is unparalleled, overlooking the sparkling Amalfi Coast.” — John Clifford, International Travel Management
Seville, Spain
“In the Premium Suites at Hotel Alfonso XIII in Seville, oversized windows invite daylight to stream in, illuminating interiors decorated in Castilian or Andalusian style. The crystal chandeliers, marble floors, and modern and traditional furniture blend harmoniously to create a unique style.” — Marco Palermo, Authentic Explorations
Lanai City, Hawaii
“My favorite suites are at Four Seasons Resort Lanai: elegant Hawaiian furnishings, beautiful artwork, open-concept living and dining spaces, large open-air balconies, and amazing views of Hulopo’e Bay, where, if you’re lucky, you’ll see spinner dolphins.” — Marilyn Clark, Lighthouse Travel