The Pool at Olissippo Lapa Palace

"View the entire 2011 Gold List of the world's best places to stay › Also appeared in the Gold List in 2010, 2009, 2008, 2006 Amenities: Pool, Spa"

"Enjoy the palm-shaded outdoor pool and the bird's-eye view of the city's red-tile roofs"

"From May-September, the outdoor Pool bar (Le Pavillion) serves al-fresco light meals, canapes, and drinks"

"The quiet spa has an indoor pool and several massage rooms, and the fitness center, though small, has plenty of cardio and strength-training equipment"

"The beautiful marble baths, some adorned with bas-reliefs by a local artist, supply robes, slippers, monogrammed towels, porcelain containers for amenities, magnifying mirrors, spacious vanities stocked with L'Occitane toiletries, enormous mirrors and hair dryers, and those in deluxe rooms and suites add whirlpool tubs"