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20 Best Hotel Pools in Europe

These days hotel guests are looking for something a bit more than big, blue, rectangular and full of water when it comes to the pool. And there are many hotels only too willing to oblige. Some have created wonderful oasis or jungles in the middle of cities, or offer you sweeping, uninterrupted views of the ocean, tempt with the infinity plunge into nothingness, or have a mini water park in their garden. It's hard to compare these different approaches to creating the best hotel pools in Europe, so this list isn't in order, but is instead grouped around themes.

hotel swimming pool

And while we don't really believe you're going to choose your holiday destination based solely on a photo of a dreamy pool, it might provide inspiration to get booking! If you're feeling inspired don't hesitate to get in touch by phone or email, one of our 'pool gurus' for advice.

A Pool with a View

Why is it so relaxing to stare off into a peaceful distance while letting your feet paddle and your arms bronze? This is the true essence of being on holiday and those moments are precious. Our pick of the best hotels pools in Europe with a view offer this and more - for many on this list, the vista is simply stunning.

hotel swimming pool

  • All white boutique hotel dream, Katikies has two legendary infinity pools with views over Santorini's caldera, the beautiful whitewashed town of Oia and the bright blue Aegean.
  • Find la dolce vita in the pool of the Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa, in Conca dei Marini on the Amalfi Coast. The pool and spa facilities overlook the stunning Amalfi Coast and have some of the finest views of the Mediterranean on the planet.
  • The Hotel Metropole in Taormina, Sicily is a five star wonder with Michelin starred restaurant, private beach access and one of the best hotel pools in Europe with panoramic views over the sea and Mt. Etna beyond.
  • Bill and Coo, Mykonos has another faultless view over Ammos Bay, one of the most picturesque on the island, and a pool lit from the bottom with a starry sky of lights.

hotel swimming pool

  • Getting away from perfect ocean views for a moment, check out The Yeatman, in the historic Vila Nova de Gaia district of Porto, which has a decanter shaped pool - it is a wine hotel - with views over the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Old Town and the Douro River.
  • Santorini has several of the best hotel pools in Europe. It's second listing is for Grace Santorini, which is cut into the cliff's edge and has the largest infinity pool on Santorini, with expansive views over the caldera.
  • Chromata is Santorini's third offering - another spectacular infinity pool with wonderful views of this spectacular island and its dramatic volcano-forged shape. It's hard to separate the loveliness of these pools, but Chromata has value added to the view by placing a plexiglass bridge across the pool, on which they can set a table for dinner for two. Definitely a once in a lifetime experience, dining on top of one of the best hotel pools in Europe.

hotel swimming pool

  • If the sea views are ceasing to dazzle you, try Hotel Crillon le Brave in Provence, which has accommodation in a cluster of atmospheric old buildings at the top of a village, and a pool terrace with views over Provence and magnificent Mont Ventoux.
  • La Bandita in Pienza, Tuscany was a derelict farm and is not a beautiful villa, so its a far cry from some of the high end luxury hotels on this list - but La Bandita still has one of the best hotel pools in Europe, with a view into the remarkable green oblivion of the Tuscan hills.
  • Hotelito Lupaia in Torrita di Siena also offers panoramic views of the Tuscan hills.

Once in a Lifetime Hotel Pools

This collection of the best hotel pools in Europe qualify because they're one of a kind hotel pool experiences. This is the kind of things honeymoons are made for!

hotel swimming pool

  • One of the Grand Hotel Tremezzo's pool actually floats atop remarkably beautiful Lake Como. Yes, you read that correctly, it's built into a pontoon which floats on the lake, not in the lake, on the lake. So its water is perfectly clean. And as if that's not enough to guarantee a place on the list of the best hotel pools in Europe, the Grand Hotel has a second pool, tucked away in a quiet part of the garden - it's like a secret pool!
  • The Perivolas Traditional Houses is yet another entry from Santorini, but how can our gurus not include this wonderful infinity pool built into the hillside amongst the accommodation converted from 300 year old cave dwellings?
  • Masseria Cervarolo, Puglia is arranged around its enormous pool, accommodation is in a collection of trulli, traditional conical peasant's huts which surround the great bright blue lagoon. Traditional peace and relaxation at its most gorgeous, unfussy best.
  • You may not expect to see one of the best hotel pools in Europe on an olive farm, but that's what you get in Azienda Agricola Mandranova. This deep well of a swimming pool is surrounded by weathered stone and oil lamps and is a perfect place for a refreshing dive after a hot day in the Italian sun.
  • At Masseria Torre Maizza, Puglia, when it comes to providing one of the best hotel pools in Europe, size matters. Bring the entire extended family to the pool and don't worry, there'll be plenty of room for all of you. It features the ever important Olympic-sized qualification, of course, and its surrounding area features a two-story sunbathing deck.
  • Big, beautiful and convenient, The Belvedere on the Amalfi Coast has a lift which shuttles you through the earth of a hill to its spacious swimming oasis. The swimming area itself juts out of the natural hillside, and there's plenty of room for everyone to get some sun.

Best European City Break Pools

Not all the best hotel pools in Europe are on islands or by the sea. Some can be found downtown. 'Cause sometimes all you need after a busy day exploring a new city is a quick dip before you head out again.

hotel swimming pool

  • The Vine, Madeira, deserves to be included in several of these best hotel pools in Europe collections. The breathtaking pool in question is an infinity pool in a luxurious hotel, with a spectacular view of Funchal, but its the wonderful city style of this pool that really grabs you. Dark and inviting, this is a sophisticated place to relax.
  • The fact that fashion shows are held on the bridge between Rey Juan Carlos, Barcelona's dual pools is a testament to its inclusion on the list of the best hotel pools in Europe. Gardens and giant palm trees completely envelope the area, and the pools themselves collectively measure up as the largest pool in Barcelona.
  • The location and design of the Grand Hotel Central, Barcelona's infinity-pool-on-the-rooftop more than makes up for its moderate size. Polished wooden floors and an evening breeze will make you wonder if you're on a cruise, but Barcelona's classic cityscape will bring you happily back to reality.
  • Guess where you'll find the pool on the eight floors of the Fresh Hotel, Athens? On the ninth floor, of course. There's really no reason to move from this rooftop plunge pool - except for the poolside bar with its spectacular view of Athens. It's got it all.

Private Pools

What could be more luxurious than arriving at your hotel and finding your suite has its very own pool. More than what most of us have at home. But we bet you deserve it.

hotel swimming pool

  • As well as having one of the best hotel pools in Europe outside, the renovated 14th Century Mallorcan castle which has become the Castell Son Claret also has an indoor pool with an indoor garden, for when it's too hot outside. And some of its suites have private gardens with pools. Probably the ultimate when it comes to pool-loving-luxury.
  • The Verdura Golf & Spa Resort, Agrigento, Sicily is another resort able to offer guests a private pool experience. In addition to the MASSIVE infinity pool with pristine views out onto the 18 hole golf course.

Of course at the end of the day one man's meat is another man's poison, but we do think we've managed to select the twenty best hotel pools in Europe! Still not sure? Check out our recommendations in Greece, the Balearics and the Cote d'Azur.

  • Katikies Oia 27 rooms from €395

    Total relaxation  -  Enjoy A.Spa's restorative treatments, cocktails by the infinty pool, phenomenal rooftop dining and impeccable 24 hour service.
    Honeymoons  -  Sun, sea, tranquility and oh-so-romantic- five star service in these achingly chic cliff side cottages overlooking Caldera.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the nearby village of Oia, the main square and sunset views are breathtaking.
    Restrictions on children  -  Children over 13 can be accommodated but this is a grown-up hotel!
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection

    A totally unique boutique honeymooner hotel draped over the cliffs of Oia. Cool and tranquil luxurious rooms with stunning views. Exceptionally lovely infinity pool and spa. Fresh mediterranean cuisine is served poolside as well as fine dining on the rooftop. The ideal place to completely unwind. See More

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  • Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa Conca dei Marini 20 rooms from €550

    Elegant
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Luxury
    Spa breaks
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A monastery renovated with romance and elegance. Its celestial views from its perch on a cliff top are to die for. The hotel captures the essence of la dolce vita with its location, understated but immaculate style, and its incredible spa facilities. A romantic destination. See More

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  • Hotel Metropole, Taormina Taormina 23 rooms from €352

    Foodies  -  Michelin starred restaurant.
    Views  -  Outstanding panoramic views
    5* Luxury  -  Very high service standards.
    Romantic Break
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, CN Traveller, Kiwi Collection

    Fantastic Five Star luxury, Michelin star restaurant, and contemporary Italian interior design. Seamless rooms and suites with stand alone bathtubs, private balconies, and ethereal linens. Wonderful pool and spa area. Romantic, gourmet, and close to the beach. See More

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  • Bill and Coo Mikonos, Mykonos 24 rooms from €500

    Local exploring  -  Ideally located within walking distance of Mykonos Old Town for those who want boutique stores and chic dining & drinking venues
    Beach Life  -  The nearest stretch of powder white sand beach is just 150m away
    Spa  -  Facials, massages and beauty treatments are available in the two spacious suites at the Valmont Spa
    Sights nearby  -  Admire the 16th-century windmill and the whitewashed Church of Panagia Paraportiani
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Small Luxury Hotels

    Wonderfully chic all-white minimalism with spectacular views over the sea. Spacious suites are decorated in modern Mykonos style which is a blend between the old and the new. The best suites have outdoor hot tubs. With a lovely pool area and a Mediterranean restaurant - this is a luxurious base. See More

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  • The Yeatman Porto (Vila Nova de Gaia) 82 rooms from €257

    Spa breaks  -  The superb Vinothérapie Spa boasts a tepidarium, Roman bath, sauna and hammam plus a range of Caudalie Vinothérapie treatments
    Foodies  -  The Yeatman Gastronomic Restaurant is a two-star Michelin restaurant serving contemporary Porto dishes
    Romantic Break  -  Totally lavish suites with epic views of Porto and the best boasting an in-room copper tub
    Families  -  Spacious grounds, kids club and a wide range of accommodations to suit all family groups
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  I Escape, Kiwi Collection, Relais & Chateaux

    Porto’s grand dame of a hotel offers Michelin star dining, a spa and 82 luxurious bedrooms, many overlooking the Douro. It sits high up above the port houses, overlooking its decanter-shaped infinity pool and the River Douro beyond. Designer in style whilst keeping comfort and character in tact. See More

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  • Grace Santorini Imerovigli 22 rooms from €643

    Romantic Break  -  Beautiful all white accommodations, most with private plunge pool, superb views and award winning dining
    Views  -  Panoramic sea views
    Swimming Pool  -  Wonderful infinity pool with stunning sea views - the largest of its kind on Santorini
    Restaurant  -  Seaview restaurant specialising in Mediterranean cuisine
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViews
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, I Escape

    A hotel cut from the cliff's edge with wow factor views and indulgent surroundings. All white rooms, suites and a palatial villa with fabulous private balconies and hot tubs. Lovely Mediterranean restaurant and extensive spa. Truly romantic and luxurious. See More

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  • Chromata Imerovigli 25 rooms from €365

    Honeymoons  -  Sun, sea in a wonderously romantic honeymoon suite with private terrace, secluded hot tub and sleek modern interiors.
    Sailing  -  Sail around the island and take in the stunning white villages and deserted beaches.
    5* Luxury  -  Chromata is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious hotels on the island
    Restaurant  -  Poolside Chroma Restaurant serves elegant modern Mediterranean cuisine
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyViews
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Small Luxury Hotels, Mr & Mrs Smith

    Tradition meets contemporary cool on the most spectacular island in Greece. A series of cave houses in the cliffside, with white on white decor broken with stylish aztec bed throws. Impossibly perfect infinity pool and an intimate poolside restaurant both boast killer views. Ideal for honeymooners. See More

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  • Hotel Crillon le Brave Crillon le Brave, Provence 34 rooms from €320

    Foodies  -  The spectacular cusine is locally and sustainably sourced — reflected in the unbeatable flavour and understanding of ingredients
    Honeymoons  -  You could not find a more romantic or picturesque spot — plus the village set up lends a private feel to the rooms
    Total relaxation  -  Lounge by the pool and soak up the breathtaking views, pamper in the spa or gorge in the restaurant- utter heaven!
    Local markets  -  In typical French style, each local village has a market day, ask at the front desk for details
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Relais & Chateaux, Tablet

    A hilltop hotel in the heart of Provence surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Elegant rooms offer style, views and soak baths. Fine dining on the terrace and a drink by the pool. Guests are enticed by the spa; the local charm and romantic feel about the place. A beautiful and memorable stay. See More

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  • La Bandita Pienza, Tuscany 8 rooms from €250

    Families  -  Feels like a welcoming private villa with rural charms, baby equipment and endless outdoor space for children to roam around.
    Country Escape  -  Watch the sunset over the stunning Val d'Orcia and feast on delicious Tusacan dishes and wine from the owners cellar.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the UNESCO Heritage site Pienza, boasting an enchanting collection of 15th and 16th century buildings and gardens.
    Great walks  -  The beautiful Tuscan landscape of Val d'Orcia makes for wonderful walks.
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViews
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Tablet

    A lovingly and tastefully restored Tuscan farmhouse for laid back holidays and exclusive use. Simple yet beautiful rooms with white walls, limestone floors and beamed ceilings. Private gourmet chef, access to the wine cellar and fantastic swimming pool. Contemporary country hideaway. See More

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  • Hotelito Lupaia Torrita di Siena, Tuscany 8 rooms from €335

    Romantic Break  -  A place of seclusion and relaxation, ideal for a romantic couple's escape
    Country Escape  -  Set in an outrageously beautiful spot in the Tuscan hills
    Great walks  -  Take long walks through the scenic countryside starting straight from the hotel's front door
    Sights nearby  -  A great base for visiting Florence, Siena, Pienza and Cortona
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  I Escape, CN Traveller

    A charming and luxurious converted farmhouse enjoying a secluded spot (with spectacular views) in the picturesque Tuscan hills. Enchanting rooms are the perfect blend of rustic chic. The pool lends fabulous views and the restaurant serves up delicious local delicacies. The perfect romantic escape. See More

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  • Grand Hotel Tremezzo Tremezzo 89 rooms from €600

    Spa breaks  -  T-spa specialises in anti-stress and rebalancing treatments, all custom-designed with ESPA
    Outstanding location  -  Set right on Lake Como and commanding spectacular views, this property is hard to beat
    Foodies  -  Dine in the superb La Terrazza which serves traditional gourmet Italian fare
    Views  -  Wonderful views of Bellagio and the Grigne mountains
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Kiwi Collection

    Five Star Luxury from a Grand Hotel on the water's edge of Lake Como. Elegant interiors are understated, rather than overly lavish. Glossy parquet floors, brightly coloured walls, a mixture of contemporary and Baroque furniture, spectacular views from terraces. Excellent restaurant, spa, parklands. See More

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  • Perivolas LIfestyle Houses Oia (Oia) 21 rooms from €575

    Romantic Break  -  With a wide range of luxurious accommodations, many with private pool, superb views and delicious food this is very romantic!
    Hideaway  -  Set in 300 year old caves this stunning seaside property feels a-million miles away from everything.
    Restaurant  -  Serves contemporary Greek cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, exclusively for the hotel guests
    Sailing  -  Take a boat across the lava islands for magical views of the sulphur exuding caldera.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape

    A collection of lifestyle houses converted from 300 year old caves, built into the hillside. Spectacular views and complete tranquility meets laidback luxury and style. Stunning infinity pool, beautiful terraced gardens, and superb contemporary Greek cuisine. A wildly romantic destination. See More

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  • Masseria Cervarolo Ostuni Brindisi, Puglia 18 rooms from €155

    Families  -  A number of the rooms sleep upto four and the pool has a lifeguard meaning children can roam free!
    Country Escape  -  With beautiful countryside, indulgent cuisine and a large pool this is an idyllic rural escape
    Traditional
    Restaurant  -  Serving Puglian cuisine including local specialities
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Sawdays

    Gorgeous traditional Ostuni farmhouse. Traditional trulli (conical peasants' houses) act as rooms and suites, immaculately painted in white. Stunning grounds, terraces, and enormous swimming pool. A fabulous choice for romantic breaks, family holidays, and friends. See More

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  • Azienda Agricola Mandranova Palma di Montechiaro, Sicily 16 rooms from €140

    Families
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Groups
    Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape

    Gorgeous olive farm and farmhouse on a hillside. Fabulous designer rooms, suites, and two private cottages, spectacular views, African gardens, excellent food and very family friendly. Still very romantic and very luxurious. See More

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  • Masseria Torre Maizza Fasano 26 rooms from €580

    Country Escape  -  Surrounded by ancient olive groves and fruit orchards, with fantastic walking, produce straight from the farm, and beach club.
    Romantic Break  -  A grown up choice with luxurious rooms, wonderful food, and picturesque scenery.
    Great walks  -  Explore trulli country on foot or by bike- discover it's ancient olive groves, fruit trees and miles of scrub.
    Cooking classes  -  Pick fresh olives and vegetables from the olive groves and use them in yummy Apulian dishes.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Tablet

    Sophisticated, contemporary hotel with a young, hip vibe. Smart contemporary bedrooms, some with open fires and private pools. Wonderful courtyard bar with Balinese sofas and excellent restaurant overlooking the pool. Irene Forte spa, golf course and private beach clubs. See More

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  • The Belvedere Conca dei Marini 30 rooms from €250

    Views  -  Spectacular views out to see and down the Amalfi coast.
    Coastal  -  Set on a cliff top.
    Total relaxation
    Swimming Pool  -  Seawater Pool
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParking

    Outwardly unassuming, this cliff top hotel will surprise with its magnificent views over the Amalfi coast, secluded private beach down steep steps, and old fashioned charm. A holiday destination for serious lazing in the sun in spectacular surroundings. See More

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  • The Vine Funchal 79 rooms from €140

    Local exploring
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Architectural
    Wellbeing
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  I Escape, Kiwi Collection, Michelin Travel

    This is a super modern spa hotel with slick minimalist interiors, lengthy wine list, and panoramic views of Funchal. A sophisticated spa break for those who want to be pampered to the max in a city environment. See More

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  • Grand Hotel Central Barcelona 145 rooms from €234

    City Style  -  A sleek modern hotel boasting a very central postcode, an atmospheric bar, and an impressive rooftop pool - a very chic stay
    5* Luxury  -  A chic five star boutique hotel offering high-end service, a spoiling spa, and good amenities
    Spa  -  Único Spa, located on the 8th floor, offers a good range of beauty and spa treatments plus a hammam and sauna
    Restaurant  -  Bistro Helena serves gourmet food with Mediterranean flare while the bar serves tapas
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViews
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet

    A large 1920s building renovated with subtle minimalism. An elegant atmosphere and lots of natural light. Its restaurant offers gourmet Mediterranean fare, and there’s two swish bars. The celestial city views from the rooftop terrace and central location make it a haven for dreamy Barcelona escapes See More

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  • Fresh Hotel Athens 136 rooms from €117

    Romantic Break  -  A hip spot for young couples — Tassos Zepos design interiors and achingly cool rooftop bar with pool and views of the Acropolis
    Total relaxation  -  For those looking to unwind, book the suites featuring Zen Gardens and make the most of the Hammam, spa and steam rooms!
    Hotel Entertainment  -  The new ArtWall/Project Space hosts a new visual and/or performance art show every month
    Sights nearby  -  Acropolis and Syntagma Square are very easily accessibly by foot
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Tablet, Frommers, Kiwi Collection

    Luxury meets minimal to make a statement at this colourful boutique hotel in the centre of Athens. Spacious and stylish rooms come with all the mod-cons. Admire the sunset from the rooftop pool and open-air bar. Top notch breakfast buffet at Magenta Restaurant. Great for romantics and explorers. See More

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  • Castell Son Claret Calvia, Mallorca 38 rooms from €446

    Restaurant  -  Michelin starred cuisine in the Zaranda restaurant
    Foodies
    Romantic Break
    Great walks  -  Hiking trails close by and plenty of pathways for walks around the estate.
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews

    Luxurious reincarnation of a 14th century castle in the South Western corner of the island. Serious pampering here with spa, yoga, massage and super attentive staff on hand plus Michelin starred dining. The perfect spot for a romantic retreat. See More

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  • Verdura Golf & Spa Resort Agrigento,, Sicily 203 rooms from €480

    Restaurant  -  4 restaurants, one for children.
    Golf  -  Two 18-hole courses.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Active Holiday
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A Rocco Forte hotel with two 18 hole golf courses, two swimming pools, a spa, four restaurants and a kids club. Classic and modern rooms and suites with private terraces, some with private pools. Very family friendly, but still luxurious. Ideal for golf enthusiasts, spa breakers and beach lovers. See More

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Written by Tyler Othen

posted Tuesday, 15th February 2022