Did you know that swimming pools are such a special part of the Australian national identity, that the topic and theme for our pavilion at the 2016 Venice Architecture Biennale is all about them?

Entitled ‘The Pool’, next year’s exhibition will literally build a pool at the international art event. It will feature a contemporary art installation to make visitors feel as though they are inside an immersive multi sensory experience. In addition, Australia’s most iconic pools will be showcased through images, lights and sounds.

Now that we have whet your appetite for epic swimming pools, be sure to embark on a road trip to see these two must-visit pools in the country. Relaxing poolside is a summertime staple, so plan your trip for the upcoming hot months and rent a car in advance!

Bondi Icebergs Baths, Sydney

These baths have been a landmark of Bondi Beach for more than 100 years, with newer features including a stunning infinity pool that rivals some of the best worldwide. Watch out, Singapore's sky-high infinity pool at Marina Bay Sands – we have a contender in Sydney that ebbs out towards the glorious Pacific Ocean itself.

This 50 metre pool is ideal for swimming laps to unleash your inner Michael Phelps, while there are also kids pools watched by lifeguards if your visiting Sydney on a family road trip. There's a small cost to use these pools, but when you're on the edge and feeling the sea spray greet your cheeks, it will be well worth it! 

A photo posted by CheckMates (@checkmates) on

Jun 28, 2015 at 2:03am PDT

Peninsula Hot Springs, Mornington Peninsula

Located just over an hour's drive from Melbourne, this attraction boasts tranquil mineral spring thermal waters within a plethora of pools. There are more than 20 different types of pools to try, including a cave pool, underground sauna, reflexology walk through nature along a shallow ankle-deep pool and a Turkish steam bath (Hamam). A bonus of doing the reflexology walk is that it can relieve stress, and you get to wear a plush bathrobe, too! 

A highlight, though, is the hilltop pool which dishes out 360 degree panoramic views over the peninsula. From your high vantage point, you can see out towards the ocean and over the lush treetops framing the region. Plan to stay in this pool around sunset to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience, soaking in soothing waters as you watch the sky transform into a watercolour painting.

With so many choices, where will you splash first?