In need of a cooling swim? Chill out in style in one of these outdoor pools
As temperatures reach new heights this August, outdoor pools and public baths are opening around Ireland. Visit one of these four gorgeous outdoor swimming spots for a crucial cooldown this weekend…
Image via Ballinakill Outdoor Swimming Pool
Ballinakill Outdoor Swimming Pool, Co Laois
This outdoor swimming pool in Ballinakill, which has recently reopened after a massive revamp, is a wonderful option for those feeling overheated in Laois. The extensive job done on the pool is thanks to the local community, and hours of voluntary work. The newly refurbished 35m pool includes a safe 10m toddler area.
Opened seasonally from June to September. To sign up for a sunrise swim, or sort a family trip to Ballinakill, visit:
www.ballinakilloutdoorswimmingpool.com.
Image via The Baths
The Baths at Clontarf, Dublin 3
Clontarf’s outdoor pool has been opened to the public on a trial basis for the month of August. The 40-metre wide seawater pool juts out onto the promenade in Clontarf, offering swimmers a stunning sea view. Visit in two daily sessions, from Monday to Friday, at a cost of €10 per person.
For more information visit thebaths.ie/swim.
Image via Ballymaloe House
Ballymaloe House, Midleton, Cork
In 1957, the owner of Ballymaloe House Ivan Allen decided to create a small bathing pool in the gardens of the Cork country house hotel. The same outdoor swimming pool is there today, now with a heating system, filling with water during the summer months only.
The pool is free for residents of the house to use and has a large shallow end and a separate paddling pool, making it ideal for children. The deep end is two metres deep but only two strokes to the side.
To stay at Ballymaloe House, visit www.ballymaloe.ie.
Image via Belmullet Tidal Pool Facebook
Belmullet Tidal Pool, Co Mayo
For a splash that is a little more ocean-adjacent, spend one of these hot days at the Belmullet Tidal Pool in County Mayo. This 20-metre long tidal pool is aesthetically divine and offers the bracing exhilaration of a proper sea swim with easier access and no threat of drift.
Safety first – if you’re bringing family, next to the main pool, you may use a smaller pool, perfect for younger swimmers. A lifeguard hut and portaloos stand nearby.
For more information, visit the Belmullet Tidal Pool Facebook page.
