The World’s Most Amazing Natural Swimming Pools
The 7 Most Amazing Natural Swimming Pool Destinations
Who needs a commercial pool when stunning natural swimming holes are located around the world? Imagine floating on your back in beautiful Grecian lagoon that resembles a swimming pool carved into rocks or swimming past breathtaking waterfalls in an other-worldly cenote just outside of Chicen Itza Mexico. Amazingly, the world is filled with spectacular natural swimming holes, just ready to be discovered. Below are some of our favorites.
1. Grotta della Poesia, Malta
The azure waters of the Adriatic Sea have been the inspiration of poets, philosophers, and painters, and it also is the setting of Italy’s Grotta della Poesia natural pools. These pools are formed from a series of ancient caves and tunnels that create an interesting topographical backdrop for one of the clearest natural pools on earth. Although Grotta della Poesia is surrounded by the Adriatic Sea, some legends indicate a spring water source near the pools.
2. Jellyfish Lake in Palau
Jellyfish Lake is a natural lake located on one of Palau’s uninhabited islands. The lake is about 30 meters deep and offers underwater adventurers an abundance of endemic marine life to investigate. The most famous of the sea life found in the lake is a type of jellyfish that no longer has the ability to inflict stings. Snorkellers swim amidst hundreds of these graceful creatures without fear of discomfort.
3. Ginnie Springs, Florida
Ginnie Springs Campground is a one stop shop for outdoor summer fun in central Florida. Native Floridians have been frequenting the spot for generations, but recently the area has garnered critical acclaim as a distinctive cave diving venue. The park takes advantage of the clear, cool springs that pool amidst lush foliage. The swimming paradise looks like child’s play, but the springs are deep and filled with underwater caverns. The park’s store rents snorkelling, scuba, and some camping equipment to enhance their visitors’ experiences at Ginnie Springs.
4. Ik Kil Cenote, Mexico
Ik Kil Cenote is formed from a sinkhole on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. The cenote is about 40 meters deep and includes a stairwell carved form surrounding stone that leads to the pool area. Ik Kil Cenote is a perfect pool to visit for those who enjoy swimming and exploring ancient Mexican history because the sinkhole is located near portions of a Mayan ruin site. While swimming in the isolated sinkhole is a once in a lifetime adventure, one will not be swimming alone because black catfish swim beneath the deep murky waters.
5. Havasu Fall, Arizona
When one thinks of Arizona, fabulous natural waterfalls and pools are not the first thoughts that come to mind. However, that is exactly what is located within the Grand Canyon. The water in the pools formed from the falls is a vibrant turquoise color because of its high mineral content.
6. Giola Thassos, Greece
The warm, clear waters of Giola Thassos are surrounded by rock that looks as if it were carved out especially for the purpose of creating an ideal swimming pool. The pools of Giola are not as commercialized as some of the other natural swimming pools listed, and the gorgeous swimming hole near the Aegean Sea is not a cinch to find. However, once discovered, swimmers of all experience levels are known to be thrilled with this hidden treasure.
7. Devil’s Armchair, Zambia
This over the top swim adventure requires some pretty serious swimming chops. We recommend polishing up on your swimming skills before tackling these beautiful, but challenging pools. The naturally formed pools of Devil’s Armchair sit atop the 885 meter Victoria Falls in Zambia. Only a rock ledge slows the swift current that carries water over the rocky cliff to form the famous falls.
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About The Author: Karleia is a freelance travel blogger residing in Houston Texas. She recommends taking Houston swim lessons before attempting to swim in any natural pool.
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Photo Source: Google Commons
