It’s an Irish first in sustainability.

A Cork hotel has opened the country’s first indoor rain-fed swimming pool in Mallow.

The 20-metre deck pool at Hi B Fitness in the Hibernian Hotel harvests rainwater and filters it for safe use, resulting in a greener return for both the environment and swimmers.

According to the Hibernian, chlorine is known for being a chemical irritant negatively impacting the epidermis as well as the immune and respiratory system following repeated or prolonged exposure.

The hotel says: “This method of pool maintenance is not only cost effective but also expends less energy and chemicals with 70-90% less chlorine used in the pool than before.”

The pool features a dedicated fitness swim lane and a connecting baby pool for sensitive skinned little ones to splash around in. The steam room, sauna and spa pool are also available free of charge to guests at the hotel.