From infinity edges to panoramic views, here are our favorite pools in the state for summertime relaxation and recreation.
Adventures on the Gorge, Lansing
CANYON FALLS SWIMMING HOLE
Take in a view of one of the oldest rivers on the continent—along with hawks, forests, and a majestic gorge—while enjoying a state-of-the-art pool at Adventures on the Gorge. Installed in 2012, the 3,000-square-foot Canyon Falls Swimming Hole lives up to its name. It actually consists of upper and lower pools lined with native rock from the New River Gorge, and water cascades over the edge of the top one into the lower one. Both parents and kids love the beach entry that allows them to gradually wade into the water. A snack bar or takeout from Chetty’s Pub provides food to fuel the fun.
Bavarian Inn, Shepherdstown
INFINITY 101
Guests at the Bavarian Inn can luxuriate in a pool 101 feet above the Potomac, providing an expansive view of The Nation’s River. In fact, those who swim toward the overflowing infinity edge sometimes experience the optical illusion that they are about to float into the river. What’s real, however, is the relaxing experience of wading into the beach entry pool that in 2015 replaced a smaller, more conventional model. The Infinity 101 pampers guests with a wraparound sun deck plus its own menu of snacks, sandwiches, frozen margaritas, and signature cocktails such as the Potomac Breeze.
The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs
OUTDOOR INFINITY POOL
When then-Second Lady Pat Nixon declined to visit The Greenbrier in 1956 because it lacked a pool, owners built one to accommodate her. They had more modern users in mind when they replaced it in 2004. Today, guests and members can float and swim around the 7,000-square-foot kidney-shaped, zero-entry pool with an infinity edge and a spectacular view of White Rock Mountain to the west. Children can splash in the nearby kiddie pool. Everyone can enjoy wraps, salads, hamburgers, and hotdogs from the Tree Tops Café, which also has an extensive menu of drinks—from the Original Mint Julep to the appropriately named Infinity Margarita.
Oglebay, Wheeling
OGLEBAY OUTDOOR POOL, CRISPIN CENTER
Fountains of Fun Splash & Spray Pad Built nearly 80 years ago along with the Crispin Center, the 12,388-square-foot pool at Oglebay is a testament to the quality of Depression-era projects. The hugely popular Fountains of Fun Splash & Spray Pad gives kids another way to get wet, with 30 individual features including fountains, sprayers, water cannons, and a custom Oglebay-logo tree that dumps water on those standing underneath. And, new for 2017, the resort has inflatables and a climbing wall from which daredevils can jump back into the pool.
Snowshoe Mountain Resort, Snowshoe
SPLIT ROCK POOLS
When Snowshoe replaced its lap pool about 17 years ago, it was decided that an indoor–outdoor activities pool geared toward kids would be a good fit. The two sections of the pool—located near the Allegheny Springs lodge—are separated by a soft, plastic wall that swimmers can easily duck underneath. The walk-in, zero-entry area is on the indoor side, as is a slide for younger kids. Once outside, swimmers can wind themselves around the lazy river-type pool, slip down a larger slide, or get doused by sprayers. A short ski lift trip away, Shavers Lake provides even more wet and wild activities, such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and separate inflatables sections for both kids and adults.
Stonewall Resort, Roanoke
INDOOR/OUTDOOR POOL
When Stonewall Resort opened in 2002, officials wanted guests to be able to enjoy year-round amenities. Thus, the indoor/outdoor pool—two-thirds outside and one-third inside, with a door in between—keeps swimmers warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Both sides are open year-round. Those who venture outside can enjoy the view of Stonewall Jackson Lake and the surrounding hills. And from Memorial Day through Labor Day, they can also take advantage of poolside food and beverage service from TJ Muskies Lounge, the resort’s casual dining option.
Leave a Reply