Situated In The UK's Buttermere Valley Is A Secret Natural Infinity Pool With Stunning Views

Few modern luxuries are quite as indulgent as an infinity pool. Whether you've been to an upscale hotel or you've just seen some popular images on social media, infinity pools are a great way for resorts and recreational destinations to show off. Thanks to a few tricks of modern engineering, the water in an infinity pool flows directly over the pool's edge, creating the illusion that the pool has no sides and simply goes on for infinity. 

A visit to one of the most incredible infinity pools in the world can be a highlight of your social media reel, or else just an immersive relaxation break during your travels. Of course, human-made infinity pools are quite expensive and require significant maintenance and upkeep. As such, these modern-day marvels are often out of reach of many budget-conscious travelers. But, incredible as it may sound, human-made infinity pools are not the only type you can find. 

It turns out that nature has created its own versions of infinity pools long before humans did! The best example of a natural infinity pool is tucked away in a small corner of the U.K.'s Lake District National Park, next to the serene Buttermere Lake. Not only is the Buttermere Lake infinity pool an excellent spot for taking a dip in natural spring water (at a much cheaper cost than most of the human-made infinity pools you're likely to find), it also provides some of the most spectacular views in the United Kingdom. 

Buttermere and its infinity pool are located in the U.K.'s Lake District National Park, an amazing destination for exploring the country's natural beauty. Located in the Cumbria region of North West England, Lake District National Park preserves a gorgeous landscape defined by the Cumbrian Mountains and the iconic lakes that give the park its name. In addition to its famed waterways, the Lake District is home to one of the largest and most dangerous peaks in England – the beautiful-but-deadly Helvellyn and its infamous Striding Edge Ridge. Elsewhere, the park displays a stunning collection of moor-covered mountains known as "fells," which rise across the lakes in some of the most enchanting scenes of all the British Isles. 

The Lake District has several underrated spots as well, and none more worthwhile than the breathtaking Buttermere Valley. Even without its secret infinity pool, Buttermere Lake and its surrounding valley would be among the Lake District's best hidden gems. Though it's a bit smaller than some of its neighbors, Buttermere sits in prime real estate. Near the lake, you can find the exquisite Scale Force Falls, arguably the most beautiful waterfall in the entire park (and maybe all of England). Buttermere is also next to a scenic area of fells known as the Haystacks, which has become one of the park's top hiking destinations. But while you can find breathtaking views from any side of Buttermere's shores, the views from the lake's hidden infinity pool are second to none. 

As one of the Lake District's hidden gems, the Buttermere Valley infinity pool is a bit off the beaten path. But amazingly, much of the route covers relatively flat, paved paths with only a few strenuous climbs towards the end. If you're driving, you can either park at the nearby Gatesgarth Farm for about $5, or the farther away Buttermere Village for free (though parking here tends to fill up quickly). From the Gatesgarth Car Park, you can easily access the infinity pools by following a short trail near Honister Pass, which will eventually take you to a path through the Haystacks and the nearby Fleetwith Pike. This route goes uphill through an area defined by waterfalls, mountain streams, and incredible views in every direction. You may be tempted to stop every few feet just to take in the view! Eventually, you'll cross a bridge over a small stream and approach the upper section of the waterfalls. From here, a small side path will take you to the Buttermere infinity pool. 

As wayward as the route may be, you'll know the pool when you see it! The infinity pool and its surrounding plunge pools lie along a small stream that flows into Buttermere Lake from the surrounding mountains. The pool's crystal-clear water rises right up to the rim, much like a human-made infinity pool you'd find at a luxury hotel. If the weather's warm enough, you can take a dip in the main pool to cool off and relax after a day of hiking. Behind you, you'll see one of the park's loveliest waterfalls. Ahead, you'll have a sublime view of Buttermere Valley that will remind you why England's Lake District is one of the most beautiful landscapes in the entire world.