It is probably fair to say that swimming pools are one of the must have ‘utilities’ when going on holiday to a foreign destination. When thinking about rest and relaxation many people see themselves sitting by a pool with a cocktail in hand and reading a good book. Here are just a handful of the worlds most extravagant swimming pools.
San Alfonso del Mar
Located in Algarrobo on Chile’s southern coast this swimming pool is large enough to enjoy some sailing in. If you were to swim the entire length of this pool you would cover a staggering 1.3 km. With more than 8 hectares this pool is currently holder to a Guinness Book of World Records title and has been since 2008. Taking over five years to construct and costing almost $2 billion it is fair to say that this is a substantial swimming pool that holds a staggering 66 million gallons of water, all of which is taken from the sea and filtered using innovative technology designed by Crystal Lagoons. Being part of the San Alfonso del Mar resort means that the thousands of weekly guests staying in the apartments, condos and hotel rooms can use this swimming pool for free, however, this is exclusively open to hotel guests and residents.
Seagaia Ocean Dome
Seagaia is currently home to the Worlds largest indoor swimming pool which measures a staggering 300 meters long and 100 meters wide complete with retractable roof for this warmer Japanese days. Located in Miyazaki, Japan, this swimming pool comes complete with an artificial volcanic eruption and waves to keep the surfers happy too. Also, there is a children’s pool and waterslide area too meaning that the whole family can enjoy this wonderful swimming pool together. This pool has been open since 1993 and is currently closed to undergo restructuring and a major renovation but has closed several times in the past with reopening occurring a year or two later so expect this pool to be back up and running very soon.
Nemo 33
If you are looking for a swimming pool that is more than just a large one then Nemo 33 is the pool for you! Located in Brussels, Belgium and being the Worlds largest deepest man-made swimming pool makes it perfect for divers. At 33 meters (108 feet) deep Nemo 33 holds an incredibly 660,000 gallons of water and has numerous underwater tunnels and rooms for visitors to explore. Taking more than 7 years and $3 million to complete this is the ideal pool for film directors looking to shoot underwater scenes and for just $30 any certified diver can explore this pool or alternatively you can use their diving school to learn how to dive safely. Once you’ve finished your session you can relax in the bar complete with viewing panels for the pool to watch other divers exploring. This really is a fascinating location and the bar is just an added bonus before you travel to your next destination.
Gellert Thermal Baths
In Budapest, Hungary you will find the Gellert Thermal Baths. Home to one of the World’s oldest and most well known public bathhouse still in use today. Built between 1912 and 1918 this is an amazing example of the wonderful Art Noveau design that was popular during those years and is home to an outdoor wave pool, a children’s pool, luxurious roman baths and complete with retractable roof for warmer days. Measuring more than 700 square meters that is quite a sizeable location and the pools here are fed by over 100 hot mineral springs which have been known throughout the years for their supposed healing properties. Any member of the public can enjoy this pool for a small fee and can experience the different thermal baths on offer as well as saunas, plunge pools and an effervescent swimming pool.
The Sarojin
The Thai resort of Sarojin is home to one of the Worlds most opulent and luxurious hotel pools in the World. Located near Phuket this infinity pool is one of Asia’s luxurious smaller swimming pools. Measuring 25 square meters this infinity pool offers staggering views of the Indian Ocean and you can swim around enjoying the scenery on offer or alternatively relax on one of the floating pavilions that are located within the pool. There are floating massage tables to be enjoyed as well as the breathtaking views and this is one of the Worlds best infinity pools. The landscaping here is beautiful and this resort presents a wonderful opportunity for rest and relaxation while visiting a stunning resort.
Wherever you visit in the World you are sure to find an amazing pool with something new to offer. These are just a small selection of some of the most well known resorts for luxury and opulence and should add some food for thought next time you are imagining yourself lying by the pool with a cocktail and a good book.
Bio – this article was written by Carley who is a freelance travel writer for Elegant Resorts and writes about luxury holidays.
