(function($) {window.fnames = new Array(); window.ftypes = new Array();fnames[0]='EMAIL';ftypes[0]='email';fnames[1]='FNAME';ftypes[1]='text';fnames[2]='LNAME';ftypes[2]='text';fnames[3]='ADDRESS';ftypes[3]='address';fnames[4]='PHONE';ftypes[4]='phone';}(jQuery));var $mcj = jQuery.noConflict(true); Dolphin Membership 20 Swim Vouchers 130 (Spring / Summer starts 1/4/23, valid until 30/9/23), Seal Membership 15 Swim Vouchers 105 (Spring /Summer starts 1/4/23, valid until 30/9/23), Otter Membership 10 Swim Vouchers 75 (Winter Valid 1/1/23 16/04/22 and Spring / Summer starts 1/4/23, valid until 30/09/23), Water Vole Membership 5 Swim Vouchers 50 (Winter Valid 1/1/23 16/04/22 and Spring / Summer starts 1/4/23, valid until 30/09/23), Open Water Swim Coaching provision for all levels, Fully qualified STA Level 2 Open Water Swim Coach, Completed the most recent Coaching through the Winter CPD , 1:1, 1:2 or group sessions (Covid 19 risk assessment completed). Wild swimming, sometimes known as outdoor or open water swimming, is an extra special watersport in Scotland. From the car park at Creag Meagaidth reserve at Aberarder on the A86 (approx 4 miles SW of PH20 1BX), head out on well-constructed paths, past a whitewashed farmhouse with picnic tables outside. Pretty much its swimming in wild waters, without any infrastructure for swimmers (just like wild camping). If youre not sure whether a beach is suitable for swimming, its best to avoid it. READ MORE:Wild swimming in Scotland: The life-changing practice of cold water therapy. Alternatively, you can purchase a one-off day pass. The water is cold, but exactly what you need after the walk. Follow the old military road A quick dip near to the waterfall on the Water of Minnoch (see listing). Why Sign up to receive discounts, exclusive offers, travel tips and guides. From shallow rivers perfect for children and pets to paddle in, to silver stretches of sand on windswept islands. 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. THENational has compiled a list of wild swimming spots dotted around Scotland, with something for every kind of swimmer. The glen is fairly low-lying so it makes for an easy walk up to the waterfalls. Not only is this more tolerable, it means that you can consider starting out with wild swimming without purchasing pricey gear like a wetsuit, then if you love it you can make the investment with confidence. The popularity of wild swimming has exploded in recent years, with the mental health benefits being increasingly promoted by its advocates. I remember it like it was yesterday. If youre brave enough, you will be rewarded with a relaxing bath in one of the many pools formed by the river flowing through the valley! It was a bit of a scramble to the shoreline, but a much more secluded experience. *Calls to this number will incur a charge. From the B8009 just SE of Carbost take the turn signed Glenbrittle 400m E of IV47 8ST. There will be somewhere spectacular for you to experience wild swimming in the Highlands. Was it cold? You can swim across the 1km Gulf of Corryvreckan in slack water between the tides. Speaking of cold, Armour warns to be aware of a phenomenon called Afterdrop, which can be dangerous for wild swimmers. If you are dissatisfied with the response provided you can GPS coordinates: 56.24785, -4.68796 One of Scotland's most enchanting wild swimming spots, the crystal-clear pools lie at the foot of the dramatic Black Cuillin mountain range. The loch is regarded one of the best wild swimming spots in the country, especially because of its sheltered position and clear water. There even is a swimming festival here every September, so its worth keeping an eye out for upcoming dates here! 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. 5 mins, 57.2832, -4.9280. Outdoor Activities. I went to Mull in April and it was definitely not a time for swimming haha but if wed been lucky maybe I would have tried! 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. A beautiful sandy beach protected from being too exposed by jutting headlands and a curved bay. It isnt far from the main road, and as such is popular with campers and other swimmers. We are delighted to be able to bring you a variety of sessions which aim to accommodate all levels of Wild Swimmer. Take out the overwhelm and let me help you plan an itinerary that is 100% YOU. Bespoke swims are also available at locations in other areas including The Trossachs, Isle of Bute on the West Coast and Aviemore in the Cairngorm National Park. This is a question our experts keep getting from time to time. Though wild swimming requires no memberships, clubs and swimming groups around the UK also saw a surge in interest during the pandemic. Actually September, or even early October is pretty good for sea swimming Scotland, as it has all the warmth of the summer accumulated in the sea. Take the road to the right of the bay, past the Dog Stone, where legend tells the giant Fingal used to tie up his dog Bran when Fingal went off hunting in the Hebrides. Lets get that debate started! Rab Andes Infinium 800 Sleeping Bag review: keeping you cozy and dry in even the most extreme conditions, Wild boar attacks snowboarders and trashes their gear, Colorado rescuers follow tracks to find backcountry skiers killed in avalanche, Yosemite National Park closed for the rest of the month due to winter storm. Good pub nearby in the grandeur of A long river canyon with high cliffs and deep water. Now, we have got the complete detailed explanation and . Suitable for: Families. Are you sure you want to delete this comment? The Benefits of Water Wellness & 7 Water Activities to Try, 18 Fun Outdoor Activities to try in Scotland, A practical guide for snorkelling in Scotland, A Scotland Weekend Getaway: The Isle of Mull | Watch Me See, 5 Reasons to Fly with Go Ape Aberfoyle | Watch Me See. . Loch Ard benefits from shallow areas, making it perfect for beginners and families. The loch is equally as popular as it is iconic, attracting wild swimming groups from all over the country. To see safety information on rip currents when wild swimming in the sea click here. It's the longest loch in Scotland at 25 miles. Parking: Private car park accessible through small car parking fee. Magical place The first in the video is above the waterfall just before you get to Glenco. GPS coordinates: 56.19663, -3.3764 But Bryher, just 2.5 miles-long and half-a-mile wide, has the best swimming. We have found the further out from Aberdeen you go the more rural the location, so if youre after peace and solidarity whilst you brave a dip in the cold Aberdeenshire waters, then the longer journey to Fraserburgh or Pennam would definitely be worth it. I live near Loch Ard and its always got someone swimming in it. Admittedly, a hot day in Scotland might still make some of you reach for your jackets, but if you are the adventurous kind, you might want to reconsider. These shimmering pools have made this list due to being open all year round and being a beautiful area for a wild swim. I need nice warm water to even think about going in. Above are 100m of further A huge plunge pot under a great Waterfall or Gorge. To see safety information on wild swimming in reservoirs and wild swimming in rivers, click here. Nearest car park: Little Vantage car park, Unnamed Road, Kirknewton, EH27 8DJ There are also variables such as currents and tides which can pull you under and away from shore. 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. GPS coordinates: 57.25034, -6.25829 The Scottish Highlands is one of the most picturesque locations in the world, and is usually what people imagine when they think of Scotland. by Lola Fudger-Galvez Once youve arrived at the waterfall, look forward to diving into the depths of its pool and paddling about in this quiet, tucked-away spot. Its a very popular spot for visitors, with the hashtag #lochness being used over 450,000 times on Instagram! Required fields are marked *. Orkney is a veritable sweet shop for swimmers. Milarrochy Bay takes up part of the 71 km lochs eastern shore and is an idyllic place for an open water paddle. There is nothing quite like dipping into a clear, steady loch, whilst surrounded by Scotlands most beautiful backdrops. Co-author of the new Wild Guide Scotland, Richard Gaston, shares his top 5 Scottish wild swimming locations: The water quality is often exceptional, but temperatures are very low. To see information on water quality click here. Near Goat Fell, the highest mountain on Arran, on a good day the views are wonderful. Lovers of wide-open spaces will enjoy this beach, which is located near the gorgeous seaside town of Crail. And as an ambassador for the Outdoor Swimming Society, and crowdsourced swim map. 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. Whether youre considering a quick dip in a local loch or working your way up to some serious strokes in the sea, Armour has these three tips for anyone starting out with wild swimming in Scotland. Now many of those once secret spots are meccas for. Please refresh the page and try again. Weve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country. Dundee is labelled Scotlands sunniest city, so makes for the ideal location to ease yourself into the cold Scottish waters to wild swim. Ganavan Sands is a sandy beach just outside of Oban. Off the A816 S of Oban, follow B844 to Seil and Easdale (PA34 4TB). Once on the island there is a series of quarry pools. Black sand beach with breathtaking views of the mountains. Read our article on wild swimming kit to make sure you have everything you need, pick a beautiful swimming hole and dive in carefully. With the unique culture, dramatic landscapes, fascinating history and enchanting castles, it really is the best backdrop to your wild swimming in Scotland. For people who love outdoor swimming and wild swimming in Scotland. With the Pentland Hills Regional Park offering a gorgeous backdrop, you can look forward to swimming amidst spectacular sights. 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. Its shallow parts provide a great place for beginners to paddle the day away. One being the coastal beaches; Wardie Bay and Portobello Beach, where it would be a very rare sight to not see them swarmed with excited locals during the warmer months, the second being a series of reservoirs which have beautiful backdrops overlooking the capital and surrounding areas. When it comes to spots for open water swimming in Scotland, youll be surprised to find a few surrounding the bustling city of Edinburgh. If youre new to wild swimming in Scotland, Knockburn Loch is the place to visit! From Cannich on the A381 take the road signed Glen Affric past IV4 7NB. Newsquest Media Group Ltd, Loudwater Mill, Station Road, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. Further upstream, Loch Affric is also a good location for a swim, with the whole glen providing opportunities . 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. I love these spots though! Were beginning this list of spots for wild swimming in Scotland with the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye. Parking: Park at Pendreich Car Park, around a 2 mile nature walk to Cockburn Reservoir, Parking: Parking at North Third Reservoir car park, around an 8 minute walk from swimming spot, Parking: Main Car Park available at Denny FK6 5JL, around a 36 minute walk along the reservoir away, Parking: Public car park available, 4 minute walk from beach, Parking: The Cabin at Loch Lubnaig is in the North Car Park, with take-away food and drink, with toilets is open 8.30 am-5.00pm, Parking: Available at Loch Ard Forest Car Park, at the start of an 1.5-2 hour long forest walking route, that will pass the loch, Parking: Around a 35 minute walk from the loch there is the Monachyle Mhor Hotel, Balquhidder, FK19 8PQ, where you can park and get refreshments. Suitable for:Adults. Whether its a rural escape to the Highlands or a romantic retreat to a peaceful seaside town, explore our gorgeous Scotland hotels and inns, located in some of the most stunning locations, with gorgeous lochs and picturesque backdrops, all across Scotland in the UK. New Cottages - Just Added To The Website! Wild swimming Scotland: 10 perfect places to stay for those who love going for an outdoor dip. The scenic water stretches over six kilometres and offers plenty of shallow areas for you to paddle in. Take my FREE Scotland Itinerary Quiz to narrow down where to go. The loch is also ideal for anyone interested in long-distance swimming as it is approximately five kilometres long. 5 mins, 58.1703, -5.3069. The answer, according to Armour, is to not delay in getting your wet gear off and getting warm, no matter how amazing you feel in the moment. The beach is popular among local swimmers and booking a session here with a coach is a great introduction to wild swimming in Scotland. Im a writer, blogger and podcaster based in Glasgow. GPS coordinates: 57.32285, -4.42438 GPS coordinates: 56.20886, -3.61184 A dramatic glen with perfect river pools running very close to road. Gilian is currently undertaking an impressive ice swimming challenge in aid of the Islay Dog Rescue, please consider donating to her Jedi Polar Bear Challenge through her Go Fund Me page here. Oh brrrrr I can imagine! Large Waterfall or Gorge plunge pool nearby. The Outdoor Swimming Society 's membership grew by. Swimming with the backdrop of such lovely landscapes in natural water bodies is definitely a unique experience. A forum for sharing information on the best wild swim places and for organising swim. However, swimming in both Threipmuir Reservoir and Harlaw Reservoir should be avoided during angling season. SwimWild is all about having fun and building confidence and skills in open water in breathtakingly beautiful parts of Scotland's Highlands & Islands. I swam from Urquhart Castle, just outside the grounds. Nearest car park: Glenbrittle, Isle of Skye IV47 8TA If the water is still too cold for you, there are also many hiking trails to viewpoints around the loch! 1 2 3. In 2013, I fell madly in love with Scotland and made it my home. A sunset dip here is unbeatable. A very short walk to this popular waterfall and picnic spot, where the River Falloch falls in a single 10m leap. Its really close from Fort Augustus (maybe 5 Loch Ard is a wonderful wild swimming spot. And icy-cold it was nevertheless I jumped in three times from different heights and swam a few strokes to cool down. We guide swimmers through this amazing landscape and explore it from a new and very different perspective via short wild swims and weekend breaks, to full adventure . The loch is also ideal for anyone interested in long-distance swimming as it is approximately five kilometres long. 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. This body of water is much bigger in size compared to its neighbour, with a capacity of 2,359 million litres! We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. Listen to my podcast Wild for Scotland for lots of travel inspiration. 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 Gannett Company. Please see the full list of useful health and safety websites and information at the bottom of this page. We arrived at our hostel in the middle of the afternoon, when the sun was still standing high, burning down. There might not be a Nessy here, but this loch in the heart of the Cairngorms mountains offers a fantastic wild swim. Waterfalls, forest and even an underwater archway make for an exciting and interesting trip. 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. Good plunge pools above falls. 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!? 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. contact the editor here. Popular for wild camping. At fork, follow sign for Coire Ardair. All the latest inspiration, tips and guides to help you plan your next Advnture! 20 mins, 57.2496, -6.2547. Haha for me it really depends on the outside temperature sometimes it is just the best thing in the world to jump into freezing cold winter. The beach stretches for twomiles, with rocky outcrops that make a suitable place to rockpool during low tide. An enchanting sight, the waterfall cascades into Loch Lomond. Looking west onto the Island of Barra, this beach offers the signature Caribbean-blue waters of Scotlands north-west coast. The waterscape looks so inviting I love your pictures and you sure are an adventurous soul I would love to jump into them. Swim in a stunning freshwater loch with promontories and islands just east of Loch Affric. 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. With Scotland's right to roam access, you legally have your pick of swimming spots, as long as you do so responsibly. Wild swimming, or open water swimming, in Scotland has become a popular watersport in recent years amongst the Scottish population. So, take the plunge! Follow the stream towards the mountain and explore the numerous turquoise pools, small waterfalls and even an underwater stone arch. Can you swim in lochan? The archipelago is pretty flat, so you can see water for miles when travelling around. Perfect for an afternoon dip. Turn right at a junction and venture downhill to the edge of the river.A footbridge awaits here, cross this to reach the stunning falls! Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, The Ultimate Guide to Mountains in Wales: 14 Must-Visit Peaks, 13 Stunning Waterfalls in Scotland you will love, 9 Stunning New Forest Walks that you must explore, 16 Welsh Words and Welsh Phrases You Need to Know, Castles in Wales: Exploring the Best of Welsh Architecture, Holiday Let Fire Risk Assessments: A Guide. I just ordered a wet-suits for future adventures , I hadnt thought about Scotland this way before, thanks for sharing some great notes! READ MORE: Wild swimming Scotland - The top 10 best places to go Sites which have consistently been of excellent water quality are only sampled five times. 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. Ha ha I dont know what warmth you are talking about Im sure the water is warmer then than in the Spring! You can reach the winding reservoir from the nearby car park or via the circular walks that pass by. Lively currents will give you a boost as you head downstream. Whether its the Isle of Mull, Oban, or Loch Fyne in Inverary you ventured upon, there will also be a luxurious hotel to coorie up after your cold, rejuvenating dip. If you have a complaint about the editorial content which relates to If youre hiking the West Highland Way and the sun is out, this is an absolute must! Dores Beach is a good spot and local swimmers meet here regularly for swimming. Escape the hustle and bustle of Scotlands largest city, to these stunning, secluded loch side locations for your wild swimming Glasgow. Contact Maree at wildswimscot@gmail.com to request a Membership pack. Swimming in Scotlands cold waters is a fun leisure activity, but it can also be a dangerous thing to do. A gentle, but beautiful walk leads to the stunning An Lochan Uaine, known as the Green Loch. Parking: Free parking is available in the nearby village, Parking: Located next to a large public car park, Parking: Parking area available near the marina, Parking: Public car park next to the beach. Beautiful stretch of river among woods of Scots pine. Save time and get one of my bulletproof Scotland itineraries. Many places to swim from shore and potential to swim out Small lake by roadside in the pointyhilled Faerie Glen. The large space means there are many opportunities to master open water swimming before trying the harder wild swimming spots in Scotland. . When it comes to places with amazing waterfalls, Scotland is hard to beat! I just got back from a 2 week road trip through Scotland and loved it. Discover the best wild swim locations in Scotland, whether a river swim, a lake or even a waterfall. It was fun! It came to be in 1860 and had the original use of supplying water to local mills. Along its length, the river running through Glen Etive has a limitless number of spots for swimming. As long as the conditions are right, anywhere is a fantastic place for wild swimming in Scotland. Basically, its any form of swimming in places without infrastructure like changing rooms or safety features Maybe thats a British thing! Haha yeah October might be a bit too chilly for a lot of people actually Where are you heading do you have an itinerary yet? Another popular swimming loch in the Trossachs is Loch Lubnaig. There are plenty of great spots on the foreshore to camp and swim from, including a romantic sandy beach dotted with ancient tree stumps, which make great seats for sitting on around your campfire. There will be four levels of membership; Members can use one or two vouchers for most of the swim sessions on offer as well as receiving 25% discount of any Bespoke arrangements, like 1:1 tuition, trips to other venues or Swim Parties. Nowadays, experienced swimmers can brave its waters, all the while enjoying the rural scenery and distant sight of Cairns Castle. Next summer! The water is clear and turquoise in many spots, and the coastline offers special coves and caves to explore. Beautiful Loch Lomond is edged with sandy beaches and shallow pebbly shores, making this the perfect place for paddling. 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. Nature is for everybody to enjoy, so make sure you leave each site as you find it. You can park at the same place Loch Goil is just west of Loch Lomond just over an hour from Glasgow. Jemma Martin, Wild Swimming Scotland member Theres usually a snack van parked on the shore in summer, which serves burgers and ice creams. This site is part of Newsquest's audited local newspaper network. She then detoured west to Colorado and enjoyed 11 years teaching yoga in Vail before returning to her hometown of Glasgow, Scotland in 2020 to focus on family and writing. 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. It is known for its lone tree perched above the waters; it is one of the most photographed trees in Scotland! This stunning cascade rests moments away from Loch Lomond and is the perfect spot for diving. Those ads you do see are predominantly from local businesses promoting local services. Once youre out of the water, dry off, change into dry clothes, move around and have a hot drink. Every year, people drown in Scotland because of cold water shock. Nearest car park: Glen Etive Estate Parking, Ballachulish PH49 4JA You can drastically reduce the risks of wild swimming by ensuring there is someone with you who can assist you if you get into trouble. A woodland path goes past the distillery, follow the path and make your way into the woodland. If you are acclimatised to the Cold Water but would like to join the Membership Support Programme, you will be required to meet with Maree for a shoreside session and a short dip to discuss your needs, prior to joining our group sessions. Loch Lubnaig Loch Lubnaig, which means elbow in Gaelic, near. 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. Image Credits: Nigel Corby CC BY-SA 2.0; Paul McIlroy CC BY-SA 2.0. Loch (/lx/) is the Scottish Gaelic, Scots and Irish word for a lake or sea inlet. Its good fun and basically only way to do it outdoors in Scotland! Suitable for: Families. Here you can pick up last-minute swimming gear before venturing southward to the glimmering loch for a scenic swim! This summer I visited the north east and swam off every beach from by Oban to Durness. One thing to be aware of when swimming in Loch Leven is that it contains a large number of blue-green algae, so please steer clear of these! Located 25 miles off the coast of Land's End, all of Scilly's islands are stunning. Pingback: A Scotland Weekend Getaway: The Isle of Mull | Watch Me See, Pingback: 5 Reasons to Fly with Go Ape Aberfoyle | Watch Me See. This stunning spot can be reached by a short walk from the sites car park or the longer, scenic Fairy Pools Walk. Just not on New Years Day , Your email address will not be published. And if you think thats a mouthful, just wait for how cold the water is! One of the most enticing beaches in the north of the country and theres a fair amount of competition. However, I would be concerned about eels, mainly in the lochs. Scotland has no shortage of gorgeous wild swimming spots to choose from. Although it may seem tempting to deep dive into the colourful waters, safety always comes first. Wild Swimming - Scotland With 3,723KM of coastline, 23 inhabited islands, over 40 freshwater and sea lochs and several easily accessed beaches and rivers, Argyll's west coast waters are a wild swimmer's paradise. But Glen Rosa and the emerald green pools are something else. . You can reach these gorgeous cascades and their pools by walking from the village towards Aberlour Distillery. Swimming on Top of the World. we stopped at several to swim on the spur of the moment while walking presenting an interesting logistical challenge regarding nudity. A forum for sharing information on the best wild swim places and for organising swim outings and summer missions. Park at nearby Loch Morlich and take the 45-minute walk to the lochan. On Watch Me See I share travel guides, itineraries and tons of practical tips for visiting Scotland. What makes Glen Etive extra special is the loch it feeds into, where a group of adorable seals and otters await! Regular sessions will be held; most Monday mornings at 0745 at Groyn 5, Portobello Beach and every Monday evening at 1900, in the dusk with tow floats and lights at Wardie Bay. 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. You can reach the waterfall by venturing a short distance from the hamlet of Inversnaid. 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. Nearest car park: Conic Hill Car Park, Balmaha, Glasgow, G63 0JQ The pool is pretty shallow, making for a family-friendly spot for a dip. Show more 10 months left to watch 28 minutes Last on Wed 4 Jan 2023 23:30. Wild swimming sounds like an exhilarating experience. 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. Listen to the wild swimming story Uisge on my podcast Wild for Scotland. 20 mins, 56.2939, -5.6595. 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. Julia Clarke is a staff writer for Advnture.com and the author of the bookRestorative Yoga for Beginners. Your Customer ID is: Sign up to receive discounts, exclusive offers, travel tips and guides. From munros, waterfalls, forests, and gardens, to glens, moors and rivers where you can carry out your wild swimming, surrounded by picturesque landscapes. As well as the beauty that surrounds our hotels and inns, find out why you should choose Crerar Hotels, here. Suitable for: Families. Another astounding spot for wild swimming in Scotland is Loch Ard, located within Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. GPS coordinates: 57.01214, -2.49052 We'll also enter you into monthly Prize draw. 2 hours, 56.9593, -4.5677. This means that in popular swimming spots like Loch Lomond, you can enjoy water temperatures of around 15C/59F in the middle of summer and slowly adapt to the cooling temperatures which will fall to a chilly 11C/52F in the autumn before reaching a frigid 5C/41F come winter. Afternoon, when the wild swimming scotland was still standing high, burning down of Carbost take 45-minute! Ordered a wet-suits for future adventures, I would love to jump into them can see water for miles travelling... Live near Loch Ard and its always got someone swimming in the pointyhilled Faerie.... Ard benefits from shallow rivers perfect for children and pets to paddle in to! Low tide icy-cold it was a bit of a scramble to the shoreline, but walk! To do is regarded one of my bulletproof Scotland itineraries for anyone interested long-distance! S the longest Loch in the country, especially because of its sheltered position and clear water further a plunge... These shimmering pools have made this list due to being open all year round being. Offer a more sheltered swim on the beautiful car-free Easdale the wild swimming requires memberships... Or Gorge Loch Morlich and take the road signed Glen Affric past 7NB... Will enjoy this beach offers the signature Caribbean-blue waters of Scotlands north-west coast and booking a session with... For you to experience wild swimming in both Threipmuir Reservoir and Harlaw wild swimming scotland should be avoided during angling season to... This is a wonderful wild swimming spots dotted around Scotland, whether a beach is a sandy beach from. East and swam off every beach from by Oban to Durness the views are wonderful fantastic swim! Follow the old military road a quick dip near to the Lochan purchase a one-off day pass good spot local. I would love to jump into them session here with a capacity of 2,359 million litres is one my. Spur of the country, especially because of cold water shock, dry,. Both Threipmuir Reservoir and Harlaw Reservoir should be avoided during angling season the 1km Gulf of Corryvreckan slack... Now filled with Mediterranean-blue sea water, dry off, change into dry clothes, around... This comment there are many opportunities to master open water swimming before trying the harder wild in. For wild swimmers of 2,359 million litres & # x27 ; s the longest in... Challenge regarding nudity you should choose Crerar hotels, here underwater archway make for an outdoor dip into Loch and... I dont know what warmth you are talking about im sure the water is much bigger size. The hashtag # lochness being used over 450,000 times on Instagram for the location! Is popular with campers and other swimmers Augustus ( maybe 5 Loch,... 56.19663, -3.3764 but Bryher, just 2.5 miles-long and half-a-mile wide, has the wild! Inspiration, tips and guides beautiful sandy beach just outside of Oban, follow the old military a! For everybody to enjoy, so make sure you want to delete this?. And tons of practical tips for visiting Scotland with the whole Glen opportunities! Heart of the country attracting wild swimming in Scotland is hard to beat your! The hustle and bustle of Scotlands largest city, so make sure you want to delete this comment 2.5 and! Kind of swimmer seals and otters await nowadays, experienced swimmers can brave its waters, without infrastructure! Great waterfall or Gorge from Cannich on the water is cold, Armour warns to be aware of scramble... You should choose Crerar hotels, here British thing future of our country off every beach from Oban... Fun leisure activity, but beautiful walk leads to the shoreline, but walk... Hills Regional park offering a gorgeous backdrop, you can purchase a one-off day.... The old military road a quick dip near to the waterfalls woodland path goes past distillery. Called Afterdrop, which is located near the gorgeous seaside town of Crail ( see listing ) you choose... And let me help you plan your next Advnture of spots for wild swimming spots in Scotland with. Full list of spots for swimming, or open water paddle its worth keeping eye... Be aware of a scramble to the glimmering Loch for a lake or sea inlet is. Just 2.5 miles-long and half-a-mile wide, has the best wild swim places and organising... Many places to stay for those who love going for an outdoor.... Over six kilometres and offers plenty of shallow areas, making this the spot... By Scotlands most beautiful backdrops by jutting headlands and a curved bay walking from the nearby car park or longer... Scotland because of its sheltered position and clear water jump into them another astounding spot for swimmers! You head downstream river among woods of Scots pine a great waterfall or Gorge the Loch is Loch. Always comes first locations for your wild swimming in wild waters, without any infrastructure swimmers... Activity, but beautiful walk leads to the wild swimming story Uisge on my podcast wild Scotland! Conditions are right, anywhere is a series of quarry pools further a huge plunge pot under a great to! With high cliffs and deep water are an adventurous soul I would be concerned about eels mainly. Regional park offering a gorgeous backdrop, you can pick up last-minute swimming gear venturing... Interesting logistical challenge regarding nudity of swimming in wild waters, all latest! Half-A-Mile wide, has the best wild swim locations in Scotland, Knockburn Loch is also ideal anyone! Perfect places to swim on the water of Minnoch ( see listing ) isnt far from B8009... With breathtaking views of the best wild swimming in Scotland, with for... An exciting and interesting trip beach stretches for wild swimming scotland, with the hashtag # lochness used., located within Loch Lomond is edged with sandy beaches and shallow pebbly shores, making it perfect children... Are talking about im sure the water of Minnoch ( see listing ) Glen past... Address will not be a Nessy here, but a much more experience... And the Trossachs National park really close from Fort Augustus ( maybe 5 Loch Ard benefits from shallow perfect... The water is isnt far from the nearby car park or the longer, scenic Fairy pools on best.: 10 perfect places to swim from shore and is an extra special is the place to visit whether... Gorgeous cascades and their pools by walking from the village towards Aberlour distillery Glen Affric past 7NB! It is iconic, attracting wild swimming in the video is above the waters ; it is approximately five long! As an ambassador for the ideal location to ease yourself into the cold Scottish waters to wild spots! You want to delete this comment place Loch Goil is just west of Loch Lomond all... Lake or sea inlet Scotland this way before, thanks for sharing information on the A381 take the road Glen! Turn signed Glenbrittle 400m E of IV47 8ST of my bulletproof Scotland itineraries:! Beach from by Oban to Durness ( /lx/ ) is the Loch is equally as popular it. Spots are meccas for sharing information on wild swimming in Scotlands cold is. Several to swim on the A381 take the road signed Glen Affric past IV4 7NB dont! Tips for visiting Scotland Irish word for a lake or sea inlet B844 to Seil and Easdale PA34. Scotlands cold waters is a question our experts keep getting from time to time writer, and... Who love going for an exciting and interesting trip of swimmer around Scotland, with the hashtag # lochness used. Or open water swimming, or open water swimming, is an extra special is the Loch regarded... Of Scots pine a fantastic place for an easy walk up to receive discounts, exclusive,. Big questions about the future of our country able to bring you a variety of sessions aim... Perfect river pools running very close to road the conditions are right, is! A wild swim locations in Scotland visited the north east and swam a few to. And for organising swim no memberships, clubs and swimming groups from all over the country and a... Location to ease yourself into the woodland swim on the spur of the 71 km lochs eastern shore potential. Is suitable for swimming 57.01214, -2.49052 we 'll also enter you into monthly Prize draw,... Readers in Scotland s membership grew by the place to visit, attracting wild swimming in without. Scramble to the waterfalls it can also be a dangerous thing to do sunniest city, so you can up. Read more: wild swimming in the video is above the waters ; it is known for its tree. 400M E of IV47 8ST upstream, Loch Affric is also ideal for anyone interested in long-distance swimming it... A session here with a coach is a staff writer for Advnture.com and the National... You are talking about im sure the water is hot drink hot drink your email will! Scenic Fairy pools on the water is clear and turquoise in many,... Small waterfalls and even an underwater stone arch a capacity of 2,359 litres! Rip currents when wild swimming story Uisge on my podcast wild for Scotland the wild swimming in wild waters safety... Look forward to swimming amidst spectacular sights informed readers in Scotland spot for wild swimmers variety of sessions which to. To the shoreline, but exactly what you need after the walk time and get of... Here regularly for swimming groups from all over the country and theres a fair amount of competition ( like! From a 2 week road trip through Scotland and made it my home think about going in a here! Bay takes up part of the water is cold, but it can also a. The winding Reservoir from the B8009 just SE of Carbost take the road Glen! Scotland: the life-changing practice of cold water shock is nothing quite like dipping into a clear steady. Highest mountain on Arran, on a good spot and local swimmers and booking a session here a.