Tuesday 26 May 2015

Top 10 Natural Pools

Top 10 Natural Pools
Think pools and baths, and spas are all human invention? Not at all. Check out these incredible natural reservoirs, created, shaped and formed by the natural forces and then inundated with water from the underground or waterfalls. Some are better than the water parks!

10. Geneve Bay, Saint Martin

Although the island is an attractive tourist destination because of its white sandy beaches and clear blue water, there is a nice natural pool on the Geneve Bay. A little rocky coast can be reached by walking from Guana Bay.
Why to go there?
The pool provides a refreshing dip after a pleasant coastal hike.
Top Natural Pools-St. Martens-Photo by Carver Haines

Top Natural Pools-St. Martens
Photo by Unknown
Top Natural Pools-St. Martens-Photo by Jean Saint Martin

9. Champagne Pool, North Island, New Zealand

The geothermal pond is a spectacular natural marvel, formed 900 years ago – a relatively young age for such a formation. The hot spring is 62 m (203 ft) deep and the water temperature is about 73 °C (163 °F). It is obviously not suitable for bathing, but gorgeous to admire.
Why to go there?
The pool is a popular attraction in the region.
Top Natural Pools-Champagne Pool
Photo by Unknown
Top Natural Pools-Champagne Pool-Photo by Blaine Harrington
Photo by Blaine Harrington
Top Natural Pools-Champagne Pool2
Photo by Unknown

8. Mammoth Hot Springs, Wyoming, USA

The travertine Minerva Terrace is one of the most spectacular spots in Yellowstone National Park. The water streaming from under the ground and down the hill is extremely hot (80 °C;170 °F). The hot springs cover a very large area, which is exciting to explore.
Why to go there?
Although impossible to bathe, the area is indeed very beautiful.
Top Natural Pools-Mammoth-Photo by Alexander Koenders
Top Natural Pools-Mammoth-Photo by Julie Lubick
Photo by Julie Lubick
Top Natural Pools-Mammoth-Photo by Shijie Jin
Photo by Shijie Jin

7. The Grand Prismatic Spring, Wyoming, USA

The largest hot spring in the country got its name due to the vibrant iridescent colors, caused by bacteria. The color of the spring’s rim changes every season, except for the center, which is free from bacteria due to the extreme temperature.
Why to go there?
It is the third largest hot spring in the world and indeed impressive.
Top Natural Pools-Grand Prismatic-Photo by Tom Charonsinphon
Photo by Tom Charonsinphon
Top Natural Pools-Grand Prismatic
Photo by Unknown
Top Natural Pools-Grand Prismatic2
Photo by Unknown

6. The Devil’s Pool, Victoria Falls, Zambia

A gorgeous and one of the most popular waterfalls in the world is known as “the smoke that thunders” among the locals. The Devil’s Pool is a naturally formed pool on the Zambia’s side. From September to December the current becomes weaker than usual and some adventurers dare to swim in it just a few feet away from the abyss.
Why to go there?
It is worth seeing the waterfall. But swimming in the pool is not an approved activity.
Top Natural Pools-Devil's-Photo by Annie Griffiths
Photo by Annie Griffiths
Top Natural Pools-Devil's2
Photo by Unknown
Top Natural Pools-Devil's
Photo by Unknown

5. Havasu Falls, Arizona, USA

The beautiful falls, found in the Grand Canyon, form a natural pool, which provides an exhilarating swim for the hikers. The average water temperature reaches pleasant 21.1 C (70 F) degrees. Its blue color is due to magnesium and calcium.
Why to go there?
Stunning surroundings, a natural pool with two waterfalls and plenty of hiking opportunities.
Top Natural Pools-Havasu
Photo by Unknown
Top Natural Pools-Havasu2
Photo by Unknown
Top Natural Pools-Havasu-Photo by Guy Schmickle
Photo by Guy Schmickle

4. Bahmah, Wadi Shab, Oman

A natural sinkhole in Hawiyat National Park is truly beautiful and provides a great swimming experience. Surrounded with the desert, the sinkhole is filled with crystal clear water, creating a nice oasis. There is a car park and changing facilities to ensure a nice trip.
Why to go there?
One of the best swimming places in the country.
Top Natural Pools-Oman
Photo by Unknown
Top Natural Pools-Oman2
Photo by Unknown

3. Hamilton Pool, Texas, USA

Created by the collapse of the ground, today the natural pool is a favorite attraction. Surrounded with limestone walls the pool also features a waterfall, plunging down from the ceiling. Visitors reach the site by completing a picturesque trail and then have a dip.
Why to go there?
Beautiful park, great natural site and hiking opportunities.
Top Natural Pools-Hamilton
Photo by Unknown
Top Natural Pools-Hamilton2
Photo by Unknown
Top Natural Pools-Hamilton3
Photo by Unknown

2. Giola, Thassos, Greece

A unique water reservoir, located near the village of Astris, provides a pleasant swimming experience. The Aegean Sea inundates the lagoon with water, which gets much warmer than in the sea. It is indeed one of the most popular bathing sites here!
Why to go there?
Not only it is a unique natural pool, but the water is much warmer than in the sea and more pleasant to swim.
Top Natural Pools-Giola
Photo by Unknown
Top Natural Pools-Giola-Photo by Evgeni Dinev
Photo by Evgeni Dinev
Top Natural Pools-Giola2
Photo by Unknown

1. Queen’s Bath, Kauaʻi, Hawaii

As if sandy beaches were not enough, the nature has created some additional wonders in Hawaii. Queen’s Bath is fed by the ocean and enables to swim on this rocky coast. There is even a small waterfall nearby, where swimmers can rinse off salty water.
Why to go there?
A beautiful natural pool, where you can have a refreshing dip in summer.
Top Natural Pools-Hawaii-Photo by Laura Hope
Photo by Laura Hope
Top Natural Pools-Hawaii
Photo by Unknown
Top Natural Pools-Hawaii-Photo by Alex Rapada

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