7 Swoonworthy European Villas with Sensational Swimming Pools

StayOne, the like-minded community offering up the finest one percent of homes, has curated a selection of their best European villas with stunning swimming pools. The pool of course being the most important feature of any holiday villa. From an indoor-outdoor pool in a French castle to a natural oasis in the hills of Provence, this is the ultimate list of idyllic villas to book (or dream of) for a refreshing dip to escape summer heatwaves. Dive in…

1. FRANCE

An 18th-century castle in Grimaud, French Riviera 

Perfectly nestled within the vineyards of the medieval city of Grimaud, this 18th-century castle has been recently renovated and is now a contemporary paradise. The property grounds are expansive, for those who are looking for a secluded, tranquil getaway. The unique, T-shaped outdoor pool catches ample sunny rays beside a shaded grotto; a perfect set up for one’s tanning routine. You can finish your idyllic day by relaxing by the terrace fireplace, have your meals prepared by the private chef, and choose either to dine in the chic dining room or on the outdoor terrace. This property sleeps 15 guests with eight bedrooms, and rates start from €19,000 per night. www.stayone.com

2. FRANCE

An elevated oasis, Les Baux-de-Provence, Provence

Hidden away in the limestone cliffs of Les Baux de Provence in Val d’Enfer, this heavenly oasis offers guests a truly tranquil experience within its natural surroundings. The lush grounds are perfect for a morning exploration, followed by a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, featuring a magical view of the cliffs above you. This natural oasis offers the perfect blend of modern contemporary interior design with natural stone and wood materials throughout. The secluded space has al fresco dining and an open-air cinema overlooking the citadel, to make sure you can enjoy the property’s expansive gardens at every hour of the day and night. The lavish property showcases the work of local artists and craftsmanship throughout. There is no doubt this tranquil location will incite instant relaxation when you arrive. This luxury spot hosts 16 guests in eight bedrooms, starting from €2,286 per night. www.stayone.com

3. CROATIA

Authentic Croatian villa with infinity pool, Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik Riviera

GOT fans, listen up. Perched in the western bay of Molunat, near the iconic city of Dubrovnik, this 20th-century home is surrounded by beautiful countryside. A stay at this property offers guests an authentic Mediterranean experience as its surrounding grounds are filled with hundreds of orange and olive trees, terracotta tiles, paved stone terraces and spectacular views. This beautiful villa also has a private beach, which is accessed by a hidden path carved into the rocks with a natural sea pool you can dip into. Spacious terraces and balconies surround the infinity pool so you can enjoy a day outside hopping in and out of the refreshing water. There is also a covered barbecue area at the front of the house, where guests can enjoy al fresco meals and sample delicious freshly caught fish. Inside, the villa is inspired by a combination of traditional and modern design, boasting magnificent views of the surrounding areas. This authentic villa sleeps eight guests in four bedrooms, starting from €1,500 per night. www.stayone.com

4. GREECE 

Cycladic villa with ocean vistas on the Island of Paros, Isterni

Located on the beautiful island of Paros in Greece is this heavenly Cycladic villa with a stunning infinity pool to boot. You can swim towards the Aegean sea in this infinity pool with uninterrupted views of the sea and nearby islands. The minimalist, contemporary design is fresh and flows throughout the property. The outdoor bar is conveniently located next to the infinity pool, allowing you to soak up the sun and sip away without having to move too far. This is ultimate relaxation in the Grecian sunshine. The home offers five bedrooms in the main house and an additional bedroom in a guest house complete with a fully equipped kitchen, starting from €1,105 per night. www.stayone.com

5. ITALY 

Renovated villa looking over Lake Como, Argegno, Lake Como, Italy 

It’s Lake Como, we’re sold! This magnificent villa sits on the site of a former medieval watchtower and looks out across the impressive view of Lake Como. The villa is situated close to 900 metres above the lake and has no immediate neighbours. The views can be appreciated and enjoyed from every bedroom, but most importantly from the long infinity pool. There are also beautiful gardens to explore surrounding the villa, and outside, there is a pool house with its own kitchen and island bar inside, for those poolside days. Within the house, there is a dining room as well as an al fresco dining space under a pergola on the terrace.  The villa sleeps 14 guests in eight bedrooms, starting from €10,715 per night. www.stayone.com

6. PORTUGAL

Beachfront villa with a private pool, Central Algarve

This spectacular beachfront villa is truly one of a kind. Located on the cliffs overlooking the ocean in Lagoa, and next to a secluded beach, this is the ultimate, exclusive location. It is also conveniently located near to amenities, being only a short drive from Faro. An immaculate salt water swimming pool, which can be heated on request, stands on the patio in front of the home, with lush lawns stretching towards the water’s edge. Those who like to keep active can take a trip on one of the inflatable kayaks to explore the nearby waters, or set up a game of volleyball on the lawn. At the far end of the front garden there is a small sandy area surrounded by grasses which is an idyllic place for a glass of wine in the early evening as the sun sets over the ocean. This villa hosts ten guests with five bedrooms, starting from €3,025 per night. www.stayone.com

7. SPAIN

A villa retreat on Marbella’s Golden Mile, Marbella, Andalusia

On Marbella’s iconic golden mile, lies this marvellous, luxurious villa, within 50 metres of white sand beaches. Spend your morning exploring the golden mile before heading back to the property to plunge into the refreshing, expansive pool. The villa’s terrace is the perfect space for entertaining large groups, with al fresco dining, a tennis court and sun loungers to spend an afternoon reading in the peaceful garden. Guests can enjoy traditional Spanish dishes from the terrace with views of the La Concha mountain in the distance. This villa sleeps 16 guests with eight bedrooms, from €9,072 per night. www.stayone.com