There’s nothing like a swim on a warm summer’s day – and it’s even better when it’s out in nature and shrouded in secrecy. There’s no shame in planning a holiday around a swimming hole – hell, we thrive off it – so we’ve compiled a definitive list of the best swimming holes across the globe.
#1 Giola Lagoon, Greece
Let’s kick it off with a guaranteed winner – the Giola Lagoon near Thassos in Greece is both incredibly beautiful and steeped in ancient mythology so you know you’re in for a good time. Located right on the edge of the Agean Sea, this unique water reservoir is rinsed and filled by the lapping ocean water beside it. The lagoon is flanked on all sides by a rocky cliff-face that rises to a halo around the warm emerald waters.. They say the lagoon is said to be the eye of Zeus, who created Giola for Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty and love. Magical, indeed.
#2 Gunlom Plunge Pool, Darwin
Bravo, Mother Nature! What a view. This magnificent beauty is found in Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory. The water is cool and refreshing and there’s a few shady spots under some tall gum trees to avoid sunburn. Sitting on top of a waterfall, Gunlom isn’t the easiest place to get to but once you battle the inclines, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best swimming spots in the country. Possibly the world. Hop to it.
(Photo: Travel NT)
#3 To Sua Ocean Trench, Samoa
While we’ve sung the praises of the To Sua Ocean Trench before, this list just wouldn’t be complete without it. Beautiful green gardens surround the crater entrance so you can float on your back while enjoying all the butterflies and tropical birds that float above you. Heading down the steep wooden lis the second hardest part, after eventually leaving.
#4 Havasu Falls, Arizona, USA
Situated uphill from the mighty Colorado River, Havasu Falls is a secret swimming spot hidden deep in the Grand Canyon that’ll make you want to skip the helicopter ride and get down on the ground and explore it for yourself. While hiking there is no walk in the park (prepare yourself for a tough 16-kilometre trek in the sweltering Arizona heat), plunging into that cool blue waterfall will certainly be your well-deserved reward.
(Photo: Ryan Malone/Flickr)
#5 Figure 8 Pools, Royal National Park, Sydney
Have you heard about these!? These figure 8 swimming holes have to be the most amazing natural jacuzzis in the country – if not the world. This wonder is tucked away in Sydney’s Royal National Park and it’s a bit of a trek to get there. If you’re an experienced hiker, it’s possibly the best spot to get out and about on a summer’s day in Sydney. But beware of the dangers associated with swimming here – the coastal shelf can only be accessed at low tide and visitors will want to wear some waterproof shoes to avoid cuts on their feet.
(Photo: National Parks NSW)
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