Jessie KohWith summer well and truly under way, are you feeling the heat yet? A dip into cooling water must be the perfect respite for the blazing temperatures! As we’ve all learned at some point in school, water makes up 71% of our planet, and there’s an abundance of swim spots, both natural and man-made, all over the world. Some are more gorgeous than the others, however, and we have compiled a mix of pools, lakes, rivers, hot springs and other water bodies that are perhaps the most stunning in the world.
1. Tat Kuang Si Waterfall (Luang Prabang, Laos)
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A three tier waterfall located south of Luang Prabang in Laos, the water cascades down into beautiful turquoise blue pools which are (mostly) open for swimming at a nominal fee. The naturally formed infinity pools offer a stunning view of the surrounding scenery, and for visitors in South East Asia, this is a natural wonder in the region that you need to take a dip in!
2. Devil’s Pool in Victoria Falls (Livingstone, Zambia)
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Victoria Falls is classified as the largest waterfall in the world, and the naturally formed “Devil’s Pool” near the edge of the falls has become one of the most famous features of this waterfall.
During the drier months of the year, the natural rock walls of Devil’s Pool just beneath the surface act as a barrier and prevent swimmers from being swept away. Listed as one of the most adventurous activities and locations to conquer, daredevils challenge themselves at this pool during these months. Are you fearless enough to venture to the edge of Devil’s Pool?
3. The Crystal Lagoon, San Alfonso del Mar Resort (Algarrabo, Chile)
Image credits: Crystal Lagoons
The Crystal Lagoon at San Alfonso del Mar Resort in Chile holds the Guinness World Record for the title of World’s Largest Pool, being more than a kilometre long and containing 250 million litres of filtered seawater. If you ever get sick of swimming in this gigantic pool, there are plenty of other activities available – with its size, many water sports comfortably take place in this pool, including sailing and rafting, ensuring that you will never be bored!
4. Hidden Beach (Puerto Vallarta, Mexico)
Image credits: Vallarta Adventures
Looking at this photo, it’s easy to understand how the “Hidden Beach” in Mexico got its name – accessible only by a short water tunnel, this beach is remarkably secluded, and would be perfect for a peaceful getaway. While tourists frequently make the trip to this beach, the island itself remains uninhabited, keeping both the beach and waters in pristine condition. For those looking for an idyllic vacation, swimming at the Hidden Beach in Mexico would probably be a dream come true!
5. Fairy Pools (Isle of Skye, Scotland)
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The delightfully named Fairy Pools is located in Isle of Skye, Scotland, and can be easily reached through a hiking trail. Blending into the fairytale-like landscape, the clear, still pools with its set of waterfalls are unsurprisingly a popular tourist attraction. Indulge the child in yourself, and let your imagination run wild while swimming at the Fairy Pools!
6. Infinity Pool, Marina Bay Sands (Singapore)
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Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands opened only four years ago, but quickly became one of the most iconic buildings in the region. The Infinity Pool that overlooks the city is probably the most famous feature of the hotel, and it also wouldn’t be a stretch to call it the most famous infinity pool in the world. Set against the backdrop of the Singapore skyline, the Sands Skypark Infinity Pool is a visually stunning man-made pool, making it worth booking a room at the Marina Bay Sands hotel just to experience leaning against the pool edge!
7. Caño Cristales River (Colombia)
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Often called “The River of Five Colours”, the Caño Cristales River in Colombia is one of the most beautiful rivers in the world. The river “blossoms” into vibrant colour for a short span every year due to the unique species of plants along the river floor that blooms a brilliant red, juxtaposed against the yellow and green sand and the blue water. This river is not easy to access, however, and special tour packages will have to be booked to bring you to this gorgeous water body.
8. Hanging Infinity Pools, Ubud Hanging Gardens Hotel (Bali, Indonesia)
Image credits: Ubud Hanging Gardens Hotel
Another famous infinity pool, the Hanging Infinity Pools of the Ubud Hanging Gardens Hotel is a large, multi-leveled pool that overlooks the ancient Pura Penataran Dalem Segara Temple. In contrast to enjoying the views of a city skyline, you will be able to bask in the scenic and lush greenery around, making it a truly therapeutic experience. If you are looking to get closer to Mother Nature but still want to enjoy the safety of a man-made pool, the Hanging Infinity Pools will be for you.
9. Ik Kil (Pisté, Mexico)
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Entering this sinkhole is sure to make you feel like you are stepping into another world altogether. From the vines that reach all the way from the opening down to the water, the tropical vegetation that grows freely around the cavern opening, to the catfish swimming in the water, Ik Kil promises to be a thoroughly enchanting experience. It is a popular tourist destination, however, and if you don’t mind sharing the area with other swimmers, this is definitely a swim spot for the bucket list!
10. Pammukkale Hot Springs (Turkey)
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A World Heritage Site and Turkish national treasure, the Pammukkale Hot Springs has seen people bathing in its pools for thousands of years. The beautiful white terraces are made of carbonate minerals left by the flowing water, creating a surreal looking landscape and giving it its name “Pammukkale”, which means Cotton Palace. For a fee, you can swim in this natural hot water pool, and enjoy a long soothing bath that will relax your entire body.
11. Sliding Rock (North Carolina, USA)
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If you’re looking for a more exciting swim, why not try sliding down a 18m natural rock slide into a plunge pool? The Sliding Rock in Bevard, North Carolina is a popular natural waterslide that allows swimmers to slide down the waterfall into the pool at its base. The Sliding Rock is especially popular during the summer, as the chilly water helps visitors cool off in the hot weather – doesn’t that sound like a perfect summer vacation spot?
12. Indoor Infinity Pool, The Ritz-Carlton (Hong Kong)
Image credits: The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong
Home to the world’s highest swimming pool, it may be worth checking yourself into Hong Kong’s Ritz-Carlton for a dip in their indoor infinity pool. From the 118th floor, the view is sure to be breathtaking, and if you possibly tire of the views outside, the LED screen ceiling above the pool will take its turn to entertain you. If you’re not afraid of heights, and have a taste for luxury, The Ritz-Carlton’s indoor pool in Hong Kong should be a must-visit for you.
13. Phi Phi Islands (Krabi, Thailand)
Image credits: Siam Adventure World
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With its crystal clear waters and pure white beaches, the Phi Phi Islands in Thailand are well-known for their beauty, and many tourists head to these islands for a peaceful retreat. Marine recreational activities are highly popular in this area, and besides swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and even cliff jumping are carried out here, making it a worthwhile holiday destination.
14. Blue Lagoon (Iceland)
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Swim across two continents in this lagoon! The Blue Lagoon is located on top of the Mid Atlantic Ridge, which separates the Eurasian and North American plates. Dip into the wonders of Mother Nature in the mineral rich, geothermal waters of Blue Lagoon and enjoy the cloudy blue water against the spectacular backdrop.
15. The Cambrian Hotel (Switzerland)
Image credits: The Cambrian
Just look at that view! Neatly tucked into the village of Adelboden in the Swiss Alps, The Cambrian Hotel is an exclusive hotel with only 71 rooms. It features this outdoor hot pool with an amazing panoramic view of the Alpines, and is a luxurious retreat that is simply awe-inspiring.
Get away from the sweltering summer and plan your getaway to one of these swim spots with TripZilla’s travel packages!
