12 Outdoor Hot Tubs Worth Soaking in
A hot tub that fits in with its surrounds can be an appealing option for those with a bent for nature
If you love the idea of a relaxing soak in your own backyard hot tub but don’t want a big, unsightly plastic and fibreglass tub, why not try one with a more organic look? With wood, stone or concrete surrounds (and some strategic landscaping), these hot tubs complement their natural surroundings – so you can enjoy the view and soak in peace.
2. Nestled into rocks
Tumbled rocks hug this beautiful wooden tub creating a natural staircase. Rocks are also used here to create a built-in bench surrounding the fire pit.
Tumbled rocks hug this beautiful wooden tub creating a natural staircase. Rocks are also used here to create a built-in bench surrounding the fire pit.
3. Wood and stone
A stone wall makes a striking backdrop to this redwood hot tub tucked among the trees. The tall stone pillars also help block wind and provide privacy.
A stone wall makes a striking backdrop to this redwood hot tub tucked among the trees. The tall stone pillars also help block wind and provide privacy.
4. Floral screen
Trellises on two sides of this wooden hot tub provide a support for climbing flowers to grow on, encouraging privacy and a sense of romance.
Trellises on two sides of this wooden hot tub provide a support for climbing flowers to grow on, encouraging privacy and a sense of romance.
5. Secret garden
Nestled into a lush garden, this hot tub with a concrete surround manages to look both modern and a bit wild, like something discovered on a walk through the grounds of an overgrown estate.
Nestled into a lush garden, this hot tub with a concrete surround manages to look both modern and a bit wild, like something discovered on a walk through the grounds of an overgrown estate.
6. Perch with a view
Another concrete design, this tub is set at an angle to take full advantage of the dramatic view of Carmel Valley, California. The concrete surround set into a wooden deck has a sleek and simple look that works well with modern homes.
Another concrete design, this tub is set at an angle to take full advantage of the dramatic view of Carmel Valley, California. The concrete surround set into a wooden deck has a sleek and simple look that works well with modern homes.
7. Below deck
For privacy from above, you can’t beat a hot tub protected by an overhang. In this Ottawa, Ontario, backyard, a wooden hot tub is tucked beneath the roof of a redesigned shed, bringing a healthy dose of relaxation to what could have been a purely functional space.
For privacy from above, you can’t beat a hot tub protected by an overhang. In this Ottawa, Ontario, backyard, a wooden hot tub is tucked beneath the roof of a redesigned shed, bringing a healthy dose of relaxation to what could have been a purely functional space.
8. Rooftop getaway
Why not enjoy that spectacular city view while soaking in a serene wooden tub? Just be sure to check that your building allows (and can handle) the weight of a hot tub before going ahead with your plans.
Why not enjoy that spectacular city view while soaking in a serene wooden tub? Just be sure to check that your building allows (and can handle) the weight of a hot tub before going ahead with your plans.
9. Natural cover
Why stop with just a wooden tub? A wooden cover made to match will protect your tub beautifully between uses.
Why stop with just a wooden tub? A wooden cover made to match will protect your tub beautifully between uses.
10. Low-slung modern
A partially sunken tub like this sleek modern one is easier to make private than a fully above-ground tub. Here, simple wooden decking stairs surround the tub on one side, while thick hedges and trees on the other provide a feeling of protection and privacy.
A partially sunken tub like this sleek modern one is easier to make private than a fully above-ground tub. Here, simple wooden decking stairs surround the tub on one side, while thick hedges and trees on the other provide a feeling of protection and privacy.
11. Urban backyard
The hot tub in this Seattle yard has a concrete surround and wooden steps, creating the look of a sunken tub without its actually being sunk below ground level. High privacy fencing (and even higher trees) create a secluded feeling, even with close neighbours.
The hot tub in this Seattle yard has a concrete surround and wooden steps, creating the look of a sunken tub without its actually being sunk below ground level. High privacy fencing (and even higher trees) create a secluded feeling, even with close neighbours.
12. Built-in bench
When privacy isn’t an issue, make the most of a serene natural setting by using a simple, beautiful wooden tub out in the open. A built-in perch, like the one shown here, is perfect for sitting on when you get too hot.
TELL US
Do you have a hot tub? Dream of getting one? Describe your ultimate hot tub in the comments section.
MORE WATER INSPIRATION
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When privacy isn’t an issue, make the most of a serene natural setting by using a simple, beautiful wooden tub out in the open. A built-in perch, like the one shown here, is perfect for sitting on when you get too hot.
TELL US
Do you have a hot tub? Dream of getting one? Describe your ultimate hot tub in the comments section.
MORE WATER INSPIRATION
Bubbles Anyone? Outdoor Spas and Hot Tubs Done the Aussie Way
15 Backyard Escapes Purpose-Built for R&R
10 Reasons Aussies Rule at Pools
This innovative tub, which the designers call the 007 Spa Deck, includes cedar decking set into a stainless-steel frame that also houses a cover that slides into place. The swoop of the deck echoes the roundness of the hot tub, helping the tub look at home in the landscape.