Giola Lagoon Natural Pool, Natural pool in Thasos, Greece.
This circular rock formation spans 20 meters in length and 15 meters in width, with cliffs reaching up to 8 meters above the Aegean, creating a natural swimming basin carved into the coastline.
This natural basin formed over millennia through sea erosion, which carved a deep depression into the rocky shore near Astris village, gradually creating the swimming spot that exists today.
Islanders call this formation Aphrodite's Tear, linking it to a myth that Zeus created this bathing spot for his wife, giving the site mythological significance in local tradition.
Visitors must walk 500 meters from the parking area along a steep trail, and water shoes provide protection against sea urchins that inhabit the rocks around the swimming area.
Water levels fluctuate with tidal movements, as incoming waves continuously spill over the rock walls to refresh the lagoon, creating constant circulation that maintains water quality throughout the swimming season.
Location: Thasos Municipality
Address: Giola lagoon, Alyki 640 02, Greece 640 02 Alyki
GPS coordinates: 40.58628,24.67849
Latest update: November 27, 2025 20:52
A list of unique natural swimming pools and basins has been compiled. Some are bold architectural constructions, others are the result of geological phenomena. Some are located in luxury hotels, others are accessible to the public. What makes these sites particularly interesting is their diversity: there are pools hanging at several hundred meters altitude overlooking cities, geothermal basins fed directly by volcanic activity, a 40-meter deep diving pool in Italy, and even a natural basin formed in rock on a Greek island. There are also recent installations that push engineering boundaries as well as historic sites used for nearly a century. Whether you seek relaxation in thermal waters or swimming with panoramic views, this selection provides a good overview of what exists.
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