Swimming in these «pools» is a one-of-a-kind experience if you enjoy becoming one with nature.
We may seek golden sandy shores and azure seas in summer, yet the natures pools steal the show with their wild beauty, attracting those looking for more... special places for their dips. Surrounded by rocks and waterfalls or right beside the sea, the followingnatural pools of Greece make swimming a one-of-a-kind experience.
Vathres, Samothrace
On Samothrace the best swims are in the famed vathres,the small natural pools with crystal-clear, cool waters, surrounded by rocks and small or large waterfalls. To enjoy them in all their glory, be prepared for plenty of walking and scrambling. The more of them you pass, the more impressive (and less crowded) they become. The most renowned is that of Fonias. Equally dreamy is the landscape at Gria Vathra. Rejuvenating plunges in their waters are an experience like no other.
Giola, Thassos
Giola (also known as the Tear of Aphrodite) is a magical natural pool formed among the rocks, a magnet each year for visitors to Thassos. It is a small wonder of nature, in the Astris area, in the southeast of the island, 40 km from Limenas. Only a few centimeters separate it from the sea, with its turquoise waters (3 meters deep) refreshed by the waves. Swimming here is a magical experience.
Sarakiniko, Milos
The lunar beach of Milos is one of the most photographed landscapes in the Aegean. Dazzling white volcanic rocks plunge into the emerald sea creating small and large caves. You will find a small sandy patch but mostly beautiful rocks to spread your towel on and dive into the azure waters. Sarakiniko lies on the north coast of Milos and is about 30 minutes from Adamas.
Pool, Koufonisia
A natural pool by the sea wins the eyes and hearts of visitors on Ano Koufonisi. After Italida and then towards Pori, this spot, surrounded by rocks, awaits you for the most distinctive dives and to fill your Instagram with the most beautiful photos.
Kolymbithres, Zagorochoria
On the road from Megalo to Mikro Papigo a stop is a must at the Rogovo stream and the small natural pools called Kolymbithres (locals call them ovires). These are hollows formed by the natural flow of the stream’s water and they resemble small ponds. It is one of the sights worth seeing in the area, as the scenery is wonderful in every season. In summer they are ideal for refreshing dips and sunbathing on the smooth schist slabs.
Polylimnio, Messinia
In the central part of the prefecture of Messinia, near the village of Charavgi (34 km from Kalamata), a dreamlike setting with lakes and waterfalls is hidden, formed by the waters that pass through the gorge of Polylimnio. The path to Kadi Lake will bring you close to a beautiful waterfall that drops its waters from a height of 25 meters. In summer, many do not hesitate to dive into the cool waters of Polylimnio’s lakes.
