By Joanne Hunt
Like most Londoners this summer I’ve tried to make the most of the few days of sunshine we’ve had and explored the Lidos around the city. However, although Hackney, Brockwell and Tooting Bec Lidos are a welcome escape from the crowds in London, they don’t quite compare to the king of all swimming pools; The Venetian Pool in Coral Gables, Miami.
As well as boasting multicultural Spanish style architecture and design, the vibrant Miami neighbourhood Coral Gables is home to the largest freshwater swimming pool in the states holding 820,000 gallons of spring fresh water. There is nothing better than taking a refreshing cool down in this beautiful and historic freshwater swimming pool in Coral Gables that visitors have enjoyed for over 90 years.
The Venetian Pool was designed in 1922 by Coral Gables' founding father, George Merrick and his uncle and artist Denman Fink and architect Phineas Paist. George Merrick was inspired by a Venetian Lagoon in Venice, Italy and decided to create a paradise lagoon as part of his vision to create a city in America with traditional Mediterranean features.
They transformed an old coral rock quarry into a tropical paradise of islands, caves, pink stucco look-out towers, cascades and Venetian style arched bridges. It is the only swimming pool to be included on the National Register of Historic Places and almost feels as if you are ‘swimming’ back in time to 1920’s America. The only difference is our slightly skimpier swimming attire!
With the end of summer approaching in London it’s time to up sticks and head to Coral Gables, Miami for some much needed sun and a relaxing dip in the tranquil emerald waters of The Venetian Pool!
