What is e-biking, and is it right for you? This is why we have created a guide on how and where to find both the most popular, and the most secluded, Scotland wild swimming spots, wherever you are in the country. Here you can pick up last-minute swimming gear before venturing southward to the glimmering loch for a scenic swim! The pools are clear and blue, great fun too. With Scotland's right to roam access, you legally have your pick of swimming spots, as long as you do so responsibly. Take an island day trip, get involved in whale watching and explore the enchanting waterfalls on the Isle of Mull, whilst youre out seeking the perfect tranquilising wild swim. Head down the bank towards the island linked to the shore by a sandy beach with tree stumps. Now, we have got the complete detailed explanation and . Swimming Wild in Scotland by Alice Goodridge is an informative and inspiring book for both new and experienced wild swimmers, featuring over 100 of the best wild swimming spots across the Scottish mainland and islands.. Here's an interactive map of the 29 cleanest Scottish waters to take a dip in this summer. GPS coordinates: 56.19663, -3.3764 Orkney is a veritable sweet shop for swimmers. You might also like: My guide to the Ross of Mull incl. Follow the stream towards the mountain and explore the numerous turquoise pools, small waterfalls and even an underwater stone arch. Find local news and events in your area, water campaigns that might interest you or join a group or a meeting of like-minded people. Depending on how hardy you are, the water and air temperatures, and how long you want to stay in the water, you can wear a swim suit or a full wet suit. Surrounded by the Ochil Hills in Perthshire is this amazing Scotland wild swimming spot of Castlehill Reservoir. Explore Crerar Hotels & Inns for a luxurious escape, whilst exploring the best wild swimming Scotland has to offer. Your email address will not be published. The loch is also ideal for anyone interested in long-distance swimming as it is approximately five kilometres long. The barrier to the car park is coin-operated. We were the first ones to arrive, soon most hikers who had arrived here today, spread out across the rocky shore of the river and jumped into the icy cold water. Nearest car park: Glenbrittle, Isle of Skye IV47 8TA The conversation will go back to what it should be about people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. The waterscape looks so inviting I love your pictures and you sure are an adventurous soul I would love to jump into them. If youre wanting a slightly more secluded spot then venture out to the coastal beaches in North Berwick or Blackness Bay in Falkirk. The water is icy cool, so pull on a wetsuit and swim out to the kelp forests which sway just beneath the surface. Nature is for everybody to enjoy, so make sure you leave each site as you find it. Required fields are marked *. The popularity of wild swimming has exploded in recent years, with the mental health benefits being increasingly promoted by its advocates. Newsquest Media Group Ltd, Loudwater Mill, Station Road, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. With the Ayrshire Coastal Path backing the beach, there are excellent views over the Firth of Clyde to the Island of Arran. Make trip planning easier with my Scotland Resource Library. Please note that the water temperatures are still in single figures, you must be able to confirm that you are acclimatised to the cold water. Wow! Here are some of my favourite outdoor swimming spots across Scotland. Though wild swimming requires no memberships, clubs and swimming groups around the UK also saw a surge in interest during the pandemic. With ease of access to nearby islands, and beaches, there are endless opportunities to explore Scotland in all its glory and wild swim in Scotland. I havent been swimming in Scotland yet, I need to build my courage up and give it a try I think! Its sheltered from A beautiful burn located in an ancient woodland. For a short dip, I like to wear a swim suit with neoprene gloves and socks to keep my feet and hands warm. Stunning islanded lake, rich in original Caledonian pine. Stunning wooded gorge on mythical River Findhorn, descending to rocky headlands with access to river beaches and very large A dramatic gorge cutting down under an elegant Victorian bridge to deep pools and river beaches in open woodland. Useful information on the health & safety of Wild Swimming Scotland. Please refresh the page and try again. Remote stretch of northern Loch Lomond on West Highland Way. If youre out adventuring for the day we have also provided a full list of the best walking and hiking spots in Aberdeenshire. To see safety information on wild swimming in reservoirs and wild swimming in rivers, click here. GPS coordinates: 56.35007, -4.69296 Learn more about responsible tourism and "treading lightly" in nature on the Visit Scotland website. Then you come out of the water, you feel amazing, you feel alive, you dry yourself off so your skin starts to feel warm and tells your core that youre warming up so the core starts releasing the blood to extremities, explains Armour. New Cottages - Just Added To The Website! Why not have a look at our selection and order your favourite in advance like Julie did. The pool is pretty shallow, making for a family-friendly spot for a dip. Bracklinn Falls, Callandar in Perthshire This stretch of water is crystal clear and full of waterfalls and large rock pools that are perfect to spend a day dipping in and out of. The loch is also ideal for anyone interested in long-distance swimming as it is approximately five kilometres long. The Outdoor Swimming Society website is a great resources for tips for beginners, especially around avoiding cold water shock, identifying suitable wild swimming spots and where to find swim buddies or local swim groups. Although it may seem tempting to deep dive into the colourful waters, safety always comes first. There was a problem. It was fun! If you have a complaint about the editorial content which relates to Last Update: Jan 03, 2023. From the A837 just N of Lochinver take the B869 NW, then turn L after passing sign for Achmelvich, past IV27 4JB to park at the road end next to the beach. Take a picnic and soak up the scenery, it's a magical place to swim. Popular for wild camping. This may be a silly question but what does wild swimming mean? From gliding through the clear waters at Ganavan Sands, a gorgeous white sand beach, to dipping into the vibrant waters of Loch Fyne, with dramatic Scottish landscapes as a backdrop, the little seaside town of Oban is the perfect destination if youre seeking tranquillity or adventure. Waulkmill Bay is one of the more sheltered areas that offer a sandy bottom and stunning swim spot. Scotland has no shortage of gorgeous wild swimming spots to choose from. With the unique culture, dramatic landscapes, fascinating history and enchanting castles, it really is the best backdrop to your wild swimming in Scotland. Located 25 miles off the coast of Land's End, all of Scilly's islands are stunning. With over 10,000 kilometres of coastline, and endless rivers and lochs, you'll discover there's a lot to appreciate and explore north of the border. Are you on the phone to our call centre? Though no official membership is required to participate, the Wild Swimming Scotland Facebook group has over 70.9k members - with dozens of pictures and videos uploaded every day of people swimming in the rain, wind, and snow. With options to explore the spectacular things to do in Cairngorms, including seeking the Balmoral Pyramids, or strolling along the gorgeous walks and beaches on the North-East coast, it truly is a magical part of Scotland. Nearby, the Glenbrittle Campsite & Caf offers a handy WC for you to freshen up in, as well as an array of post-swimming snacks. Perhaps nowhere was this more visible than in Scotland, which houses 90% of the UKs freshwater in its rivers and lochs in addition to a hefty 7,330 miles of coastline. However, wild swimming here takes a little bit more effort depending on the tide, as you have to walk quite a while through the shallow water before you can dive in. Bright turquoise and all shades of blue; white sandy beaches; kids building sand castles exchange the sunbathing sheep for some exotic iguanas all that is missing are the palm trees. Nearest car park: Glen Etive Estate Parking, Ballachulish PH49 4JA The loch is regarded one of the best wild swimming spots in the country, especially because of its sheltered position and clear water. Home - SwimWild. Its easy to see why its so popular, as not only does it behold iconic histories, such as Urquhart Castle and the mythical Nessie, but its a stunning place for a swim. Be warned, though, that the pure mountain water filling the pools can be somewhat cold. Next summer! There is a beautiful bay about 500m to the north of the Achmelvich campsite in Assynt. Click, best walking and hiking spots in Aberdeenshire. It is known for its lone tree perched above the waters; it is one of the most photographed trees in Scotland! Probably the river in Kinlochleven just because it was so refreshing to jump in after a hot day on the West Highland Way! I was lucky enough to see a grey Park at the Sligachan Hotel. READ MORE:Storm Corrie: Top 10 Scots words to describe stormy weather. As long as the conditions are right, anywhere is a fantastic place for wild swimming in Scotland. The most Ive ever had outdoor swimming, was not when I went to a specific beach or bay but when I picked a random loch or stretch of coast, and jumped right in. If you have not yet started this amazing outdoor activity and would like a helping hand to get started, we would love to support you in your first endeavours. The L-shaped pool is the usual swimming one. they seem so serene! Further upstream, Loch Affric is also a good location for a swim, with the whole glen providing opportunities . Ha ha I dont know what warmth you are talking about Im sure the water is warmer then than in the Spring! The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused. The name alone should tip you off to the fact that these pools are a particularly beautiful spot to dip your toe. Expert Answers: An Lochan Uaine is no doubt one of the most striking wild swimming spots in Scotland, with stunning turquoise waters reminiscent of a Norwegian lake. Registered in England & Wales | 01676637 |. Secluded place to access shoreline opposite dramatic Urquhart Castle, down through fields. A gently shelving section of river beach, deepening to 4m, with large flat rocks on the nearside. In Scotland, there are currently 85 designated bathing waters. For people who love outdoor swimming and wild swimming in Scotland. Alternatively, you can purchase a one-off day pass. Its a very popular spot for visitors, with the hashtag #lochness being used over 450,000 times on Instagram! The beaches were magnificent over there I have only been to swim in St Andrews and it was really lovely! A gentle, but beautiful walk leads to the stunning An Lochan Uaine, known as the Green Loch. I remember it like it was yesterday. If youre overwhelmed by all the options, check out my ready-made Scotland itineraries or book an enquiry call for my 1:1 itinerary planning services so we can work on your route together. She loves to explore mountains on foot, bike, skis and belay and then recover on the the yoga mat. A beautiful sandy beach protected from being too exposed by jutting headlands and a curved bay. A true Scottish hidden gem, Inversnaid Waterfall is a magical place for a spot of wild swimming in Scotland! (Not ideal for children unless supervised.) However, wild swimming here takes a little bit more effort depending on the tide, as you have to walk quite a while through the shallow water before you can dive in. by Lola Fudger-Galvez There are multiple entry points to choose from, however, the best way to access the loch is via Go Country Adventure. 2 hours, 56.9593, -4.5677. Milarrochy Bay, Loch Lomond . The Outdoor Swimming Society 's membership grew by. I have to admit, I couldnt make myself to jump in it was just too cold But in the summer the water looks significantly more pleasant, and who doesnt love a quick cold refreshment to get the blood circulation going!? A forum for sharing information on the best wild swim places and for organising swim. Did you ever see any or have an encounter? Listen to the wild swimming story Uisge on my podcast Wild for Scotland. A mixture of sand and rock, Seamill Beach can be reached in a train ride from Glasgow. Are you inspired by these spots for open water swimming in Scotland? To see safety information on rip currents when wild swimming in the sea click here. After snapping a picture or two of the tree, you can look forward to wading into the shallow waters of the bay and enjoying a refreshing dip. There will be somewhere spectacular for you to experience wild swimming in the Highlands. Swimming with the backdrop of such lovely landscapes in natural water bodies is definitely a unique experience. Nearest car park: Car Park, Stirling, Crianlarich, FK20 8RX The cascade will come into view and youll be in awe; it has to be amidst the most beautiful of the UK waterfalls. You have to take a very short passenger boat from Ellenabeich to get across to Easdale, although it is so short you could probably swim it! Explore some of the best minibreaks and staycations in Scotland and book today to start your adventure. Dramatic Waterfall or Gorge gorge and numerous pools on route up to Bla Bheinn. It came to be in 1860 and had the original use of supplying water to local mills. Hi, I'm Lola and I joined the marketing team in 2021. THIS WEBSITE IS MANAGED BY MAREE AND IS VERY MUCH AN AMATEUR VENTURE, IF YOU CANNOT FIND WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR PLEASE EMAIL WILDSWIMSCOT@GMAIL.COM OR CALL 07971148397. In addition to baking sourdough bread and fostering puppies, wild swimming exploded across the UK during the pandemic, with loads of gutsy folk taking the plunge in this rainy island's copious rivers, lakes and coastal areas. Speaking of cold, Armour warns to be aware of a phenomenon called Afterdrop, which can be dangerous for wild swimmers. Whether its gliding through the vibrant waters of Loch Lomond at Milarrochy Bay or taking a dip with Largs picturesque Pencil Monument in the background, there will be a special place for you. Escape the hustle and bustle of Scotlands largest city, to these stunning, secluded loch side locations for your wild swimming Glasgow. Nearest car park: Inversnaid Upper Car Park, Stirling Fk8 3TU All the latest inspiration, tips and guides to help you plan your next Advnture! Wild Swim Scotland Membership Levels Our membership programme will include swim vouchers, which can then be used to book sessions as shown on our events calendar. Whether its a family day trip to the Beach Boulevard just outside the centre of Aberdeen, or an adventurous swim through the cracks of a collapsed cave at Hells Lum over Cullykhan Bay, Aberdeenshire is rich with unique rural locations, and beaches to go open water swimming. Would love to go wild swimming but think I might have missed my window now. Britains longest lake and home to the Loch Ness Monster. 5 mins, 58.1703, -5.3069. Will swimming has never been more popular, with plenty of people taking up the often-bracing activity . Ganavan Sands is on the Above & Below Wild Swimming Trail, full of great locations on the Scottish west coast to try outdoor swimming! Glen Etive is a winding ravine situated near the picturesque village of Glencoe. THE National has compiled a list of wild swimming spots dotted around Scotland, with something for every kind of swimmer. What makes Glen Etive extra special is the loch it feeds into, where a group of adorable seals and otters await! Beautiful stretch of river among woods of Scots pine. Suitable for: Families. However you choose to get there, you can look forward to dipping your toes in the blue-green waters of the cool pools. In drier months, the current is lazy in this section of the River Forth and shallow enough for kids to paddle bring swimming shoes though, as the river bottom is rocky. I went for a swim here with open water swim coach Dan the Merman who offers group and private tuition for beginners and experienced swimmers. This is one you should plan in advance, and only for the more courageous and strong swimmer. Its really close from Fort Augustus (maybe 5 Loch Ard is a wonderful wild swimming spot. . Satisfy your wanderlust, go wild swimming, exploring and so much more when you stay with Crerar Hotels. These are part of Wild Swim Scotlands Membership Programme. And as an ambassador for the Outdoor Swimming Society, and crowdsourced swim map. For strong swimmers, there is a large rock used for jumping off on the west side. Weve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country. Take out the overwhelm and let me help you plan an itinerary that is 100% YOU. Daniel Start, author of Wild Swimming, shares his tips for taking the plunge . Suitable for:Families. Loch Lubnaig Loch Lubnaig, which means elbow in Gaelic, near. That said, after the initial shock of plunging in, wild swimming in Scotland provides an incredibly invigorating and therapeutic experience all set against a backdrop of jaw-dropping scenery; plunge into a deep highland river pool, bathe in calm island seas or enjoy a slow swim across a still, wild loch fringed with ancient Scots pine. Lovers of wide-open spaces will enjoy this beach, which is located near the gorgeous seaside town of Crail. Isle of Skye's SECRET FAIRY POOLS - Wild Swimming Scotland (Vanlife UK) Gemma and Campbell | highlands2hammocks 25.8K subscribers 86K views 9 months ago SKYE Get Surfshark VPN at. Unleash your inner adventurer at one of these 14 best wild swimming Scotland spots. 5 mins, 57.2832, -4.9280. Britains longest lake and home to Nessie. Comments have been closed on this article. Stunning and wild backdrop. With over 10,000 kilometres of coastline, and endless rivers and lochs, youll discover theres a lot to appreciate and explore north of the border. contact IPSO here, 2001-2023. At any time of the year in Scotland, the water can be very cold and temperatures can vary drastically this can induce cold shock which can be fatal. With lots of plunge pools and smooth rocks for lounging on, this is a great place to spend a whole day or night, if youre a keen camper. Good pub nearby in the grandeur of A long river canyon with high cliffs and deep water. A swimsuit might not be the first item you think about packing for a trip to Scotland, but let me tell you it would be a big mistake to leave it at home if you visit during the summer months! Beautiful Loch Lomond is edged with sandy beaches and shallow pebbly shores, making this the perfect place for paddling. It was our third day on the West Highland Way and so far the hottest. Suitable for:Families. Edinburgh is famous for its gorgeous castles, vibrant festivals, romantic architecture and general buzzing atmosphere, but what most visitors dont know is its also a spectacular spot for wild swimming. There are a number of small plunge pools on the Grey Mares Tail Burn. Magical old steep-sided slate quarries are now filled with Mediterranean-blue sea water, and offer a more sheltered swim on the beautiful car-free Easdale. From our Big Sand Beach in Gairloch, sheltered from onshore wind, with breath-taking views of Skye and Torridon, to chancing a swim with Nessie at Dores Beach which has the best viewpoints of Loch Ness. A sunset dip here is unbeatable. Suitable for: Families. A couple of benches rest nearby, too, so you can enjoy a post-swim sit-down amongst the woodland surroundings. Set amongst the towering cliffs of Creag Meagaidh, this is a seriously impressive place to swim. Wild swimmers are asked not to go out alone and to stay close to shore, whenever possible. With all that water, it makes sense that wild swimming in Scotland has caught on, except for the fact that the country is also notorious for challenging weather it averages 100 days of snow per year and no stranger to frigid winters and frequent gale force winds so we were curious to know if there are any special considerations to be taken when it comes to wild swimming in Scotland. While swimming here, you can look forward to paddling in the glistening waters while enjoying the sights of the dramatic dam and surrounding farmland. Trying to swim in the sea? So thats why weve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. Please adjust your search criteria and try again. Suitable for: Families. Take my FREE Scotland Itinerary Quiz to narrow down where to go. Can be very midgie-prone during summer months, so pack your Skin So Soft! Suitable for: Families. Fossil hunters can often be seen here inspecting the shore at low tide, as fossilised remains of plants from the Carboniferous period, 335 million years ago can be found by those with a keen eye. A well-frequented lochan located a five-minute stroll from Mugdock Park, Drumbrock Loch, or Abies is the perfect place to wild swim during both winter and summer. There is nothing quite like dipping into a clear, steady loch, whilst surrounded by Scotland's most beautiful backdrops. With many gorgeous beaches, all within a 30 minute drive, you will never run out of options to glide through the gorgeous Scottish waters with beautiful backdrops. However, swimming in both Threipmuir Reservoir and Harlaw Reservoir should be avoided during angling season. Afterwards, be sure to head to the close-by St Mocha Coffee Shop in Balmaha for a delicious treat. Looks onto the Island of Eigg. And finally, more important than whether you decide to take a wetsuit or a pair of water shoes, Armour advises you to always take a friend with you when you go wild swimming. Alternatively, if you want to uncover more things to see and do in the country, check out our Scotland Travel Guide. Parking: Free public car park available at Loch Leven Larder, which bring you round a 2.5km nature loop, passing the loch, Parking: large parking layby beside the Castlehill reservoir on the A823, Parking: Free large car park next to beach, Parking: Free large car park, with public toilets, available next to beach. Nowadays, experienced swimmers can brave its waters, all the while enjoying the rural scenery and distant sight of Cairns Castle. However, I would be concerned about eels, mainly in the lochs. Tide goes out 0.2 miles. I just ordered a wet-suits for future adventures , I hadnt thought about Scotland this way before, thanks for sharing some great notes! (Unless you spot some rubbish in that case, take it home with you.). Its good fun and basically only way to do it outdoors in Scotland! This site is part of Newsquest's audited local newspaper network. 1. Other pretty spots for wild swimming on Mull are the beaches in Fidden & Loch Buie on the Ross of Mull peninsula. Lovely views of the Campsie Hills with Mugdock Visitor Centre providing a station for a tea or coffee after a swim. In answer to the question my first couple of visits to Skye Fairy Pools were amazing,g though this Summer the sheer numbers of visitors and the erosion of some of the access, for instance, to the rock arch have diminished the possibilities of a serene swimming visit. This is the Scottish Highlands at its best, with mountains on all sides, Caledonian pinewoods, islands in the middle of the loch and the chance to see some of Scotland's rarest wildlife. Forget about the Faerie Pools on the Isle of Skye on a sunny day in summer, I bet you they are too crowded for a more or less elegant dip in the water. We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. Whether its for a hike up Ben Aan or a thrilling afternoon at Go Ape, the area around Aberfoyle in the Trossachs is one of my favourites in Scotland. Our paying subscribers Gorge Gorge and numerous pools on route up to Bla Bheinn steep-sided quarries... My Scotland Resource Library that these pools are clear and blue, great fun too, go wild swimming.... Go wild swimming in both Threipmuir Reservoir and Harlaw Reservoir should be avoided during angling.. Scenery and distant sight of Cairns Castle have got the complete detailed and... Exploded in recent years, with the hashtag # lochness being used over times! So Soft the nearside of northern Loch Lomond is edged with sandy beaches and shallow pebbly shores, making a... An underwater stone arch Scots pine, mainly in the grandeur of a long river canyon with cliffs. Beautiful Loch Lomond on West Highland Way the UK also saw a surge in interest during pandemic! Is approximately five kilometres long just beneath the surface Society, and only for the more and... Decided to make the ability to comment only available to our call centre unique experience the kelp forests which just! Increasingly promoted by its advocates views of the Achmelvich campsite in Assynt train ride Glasgow. I think only been to swim seals and otters await and distant of. About eels, mainly in the grandeur of a phenomenon called Afterdrop which... High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, secluded Loch side locations for your wild swimming Glasgow the health & of. Its really close from Fort Augustus ( maybe 5 Loch Ard is a veritable shop... Adventurer at one of the Achmelvich campsite in Assynt to uncover more things to safety... Speaking of cold, Armour warns to be aware of a phenomenon called Afterdrop, which located. Off to the stunning an Lochan Uaine, known as the conditions are right, anywhere a! Detailed explanation and swimming with the backdrop of such lovely landscapes in natural water bodies is a! Are excellent views over the Firth of Clyde to the Ross of peninsula. You might also like: my guide to the fact that these pools are a number small... Hands warm been swimming in Scotland, asking each other the big about... Ha I dont know what warmth you are talking about Im sure the water is then... So thats why weve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying.... And socks to keep my feet and hands warm warmer then than in the Highlands picturesque of... Currently 85 designated bathing waters story Uisge on my podcast wild for.! Wear a swim suit with neoprene gloves and socks to keep my feet and hands.... Need to build my courage up and give it a try I think and! In natural water bodies is definitely a unique experience it came to be aware of a phenomenon called,. To dip your toe can enjoy a post-swim sit-down amongst the towering cliffs of Creag Meagaidh, is... Crerar Hotels & Inns for a luxurious escape, whilst exploring the best wild swimming Glasgow inviting I love pictures! Short dip, I need to build my courage up and give it a try I think in... Lochan Uaine, known as the conditions are right, anywhere is a seriously impressive place to swim city. In nature on the West Highland Way 500m to the shore by sandy. At the Sligachan Hotel are you inspired by these spots for open water swimming in both Reservoir. Deep water Loch side locations for your wild swimming Glasgow Scotland Resource Library its good fun and basically Way... Future of our country maybe 5 Loch Ard is a large rock used for jumping off on the to... Site is part of newsquest 's audited local newspaper network now, we have also provided a full of! Any or have an encounter an underwater stone arch memberships, clubs and swimming groups around the wild swimming scotland saw. Of people taking up the scenery, it 's a magical place to access shoreline dramatic! See and do in the blue-green waters of the more courageous and strong.. In Assynt and do in the sea click here and is it right for you you ever see or. It a try I think is this amazing Scotland wild swimming in rivers, click here section. For wild swimmers of cold, Armour warns to be aware of a phenomenon called Afterdrop, which can dangerous... Couple of benches rest nearby, too, so pull on a wetsuit swim... A mixture of sand and rock, Seamill beach can be reached in a train ride Glasgow. And wild swimming spots to choose from, Armour warns to be in and! Ross of Mull incl the more courageous and strong swimmer are some the! That is 100 % you. ) should be avoided during angling season did you ever any... Enough to see safety information on rip currents when wild swimming Glasgow interested in long-distance swimming as it approximately! Is icy cool, so make sure you leave each site as you find it winding ravine situated near gorgeous... Quiz to narrow down where to go out alone and to stay close to shore, whenever.. To get there, you can look forward to dipping your toes in the grandeur of a phenomenon called,! That the pure mountain water filling the pools are clear and blue, great fun.. Magical place to access shoreline opposite dramatic Urquhart Castle, down through fields warns to be 1860... Family-Friendly spot for visitors, with large flat rocks on the West Highland Way by jutting headlands and a Bay! Weve got the complete detailed explanation and explanation and know what warmth are... Pools on the West Highland Way and strong swimmer: my guide to the by. Suit with neoprene gloves and socks to keep my feet and hands warm in Assynt, to. And swimming groups around the UK also saw a surge in interest during the pandemic spots... You to experience wild swimming story Uisge on my podcast wild for Scotland sweet shop for swimmers perfect place a! It 's a magical place to swim Loch Ness Monster in Falkirk complete detailed explanation.. Scotland spots during summer months, so you can look forward to dipping your toes in the Spring safety... Caledonian pine explore the numerous turquoise pools, small waterfalls and even an stone. Shortage of gorgeous wild swimming story Uisge on my podcast wild for Scotland for organising swim lake and home the! Perfect place for a tea or Coffee after a hot day on phone! The beaches in Fidden & Loch Buie on the grey Mares Tail burn about Im sure the water is cool... Complaint about the editorial content which relates to wild swimming scotland Update: Jan,! Lomond on West Highland Way and so far the hottest, making this the perfect place for wild swimmers asked! For anyone interested in long-distance swimming as it is one you should plan advance. A long river canyon with High cliffs and deep water, -3.3764 is. Ambassador for the day we have also provided a full list of wild swim places and for organising.. You off to the shore by a sandy bottom and stunning swim spot you to. The coastal beaches in North Berwick or Blackness Bay in Falkirk I 'm Lola and I joined the team... A list of the best wild swimming story Uisge on my podcast wild for.! To start your adventure to 4m, with the backdrop of such lovely landscapes in natural bodies. North of the most photographed trees in Scotland yet, I would love to go alone! Adventuring for the day we have also provided a full list of the courageous... Extra special is the Loch is also ideal for anyone interested in long-distance swimming as it is one the... Something for every kind of swimmer Scotland Resource Library Road, High,! Coordinates: 56.19663, -3.3764 Orkney is a large rock used for jumping off the. Afterwards, be sure to head to the stunning an Lochan Uaine known... Approximately five kilometres long it came to be aware of a phenomenon called Afterdrop, which is near... Beach, there are currently 85 designated bathing waters swim in St Andrews and it was so to! Loudwater Mill, Station Road, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire third day on the health & of. Group of adorable seals and otters await it home with you. ) to deep dive the! It outdoors in Scotland filled with Mediterranean-blue sea water, and is it right for to... May be a silly question but what does wild swimming in Scotland, with the hashtag lochness... Ha ha I dont know what warmth you are talking about Im sure water... Came to be in 1860 and had the original use of supplying water to local.... Sit-Down amongst the woodland surroundings you can pick up last-minute swimming gear before venturing southward to coastal... Jumping off on the West Highland Way on Mull are the beaches in Fidden & Buie... For swimmers right, anywhere is a seriously impressive place to swim in St Andrews and was! 56.19663, -3.3764 Orkney is a seriously impressive place to swim wild for Scotland it feeds into where! Are an adventurous soul I would love to jump in after a hot day on phone. Sway just beneath the surface only Way to do it outdoors in Scotland ambassador the. Jutting headlands and a curved Bay day we have got the complete detailed and... Enough to see and do in the Spring should be avoided during season... No memberships, clubs and swimming groups around the UK also saw a surge in interest during pandemic... Stream towards the mountain and explore the numerous turquoise pools, small waterfalls and even an underwater stone arch today...