Top 5 swimming holes to cool off in the heat
We love our beaches here in Australia – of course with good reason, they are some of the most beautiful in the world – but we’re going to let you on a little secret… Australia is also home to many spectacular swimming holes. The serene natural pools surrounded by bush offer an alternative to the hustle and bustle found at most beaches. If you’re after a different way to cool off this summer, just take a gander at our list of favourite water holes.
Blue Pool, Victoria
This popular swimming hole can be found in Briagolong State Forest. With a name like Blue Pool, it’s no surprise this watering hole provides a welcome relief from the hot weather. It’s a safe swimming area so a great outing when the grandkids are with you. The Blue Pool area is also great for camping, picnicking and bush walking.
Cedar Creek Rock Pools, Queensland
This tranquil picturesque rock pool can be found in Tamborine National Park in the Gold Coast hinterlands. There are plenty of swimming holes to choose from and the water is always refreshingly chilly even during the peak of summer. A natural waterfall runs all year round but is best in the wet season.
Karloo Pools, New South Wales
The Royal National Park is the world’s second-oldest national park and home to several watering holes but the best and most beautiful is Karloo Pool, a popular swimming and picnic spot. Reachable by an easy walking track that offers magnificent views over the park, the Karloo Pools offer crystal green waters and rock ledges for those who prefer to sit and watch.
Buley Rockholes, Northern Territory
Located in the beautiful Litchfield National Park, the Buley Rockhole is a spectacular series of waterfalls and rock pools. There are a number of pools of varying sizes so you’ll be sure to find your own spot for a relaxing swim. It can get quite busy on a hot day so go early or otherwise explore the park, which is great for bushwalking and camping.
Cataract Gorge, Tasmania
The Cataract Gorge is a popular tourist spot for a reason – the scenery is just breathtaking especially viewed from the world’s longest single-span chairlift, but it’s also a great place to take a dip. You can do it at the man-made swimming pool or nature’s swimming pool – the gorge. The Cataract Gorge measures around 170 metre across at its largest and is very popular during the summer months with many a kid leaping off the rocks into the cool waters.
Image credit: Cedar Creek, Queensland from Queensland Tourism