All the latest inspiration, tips and guides to help you plan your next Advnture! You might also like: A practical guide for snorkelling in Scotland. Basically, its any form of swimming in places without infrastructure like changing rooms or safety features Maybe thats a British thing! Its shallow parts provide a great place for beginners to paddle the day away. The loch offers several swimming loops between 400-800 metres. There are two main areas to wild swim in Edinburgh. THE National has compiled a list of wild swimming spots dotted around Scotland, with something for every kind of swimmer. Save time and get one of my bulletproof Scotland itineraries. 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. But they are also incredibly serene and who doesnt need a breath of fresh air water from time to time? 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. Browse 339 wild swimming scotland stock photos and images available, or start a new search to explore more stock photos and images. . Looks absolutely beautiful, and Id love to visit, but I wont be jumping in those cold waters! Off the A816 S of Oban, follow B844 to Seil and Easdale (PA34 4TB). So why not, treat yourself to a retreat at one of our luxurious hotels & inns, go wild swimming Scotland to boost your circulation, improve your immunity and release a rush of endorphins, with an out-of-this-world therapeutic experience. Never heard about any problems with eels here I wouldnt worry about that at all! The vibrant colours and clearness of the waters may seem attractive, but the temperatures are often very low. Suitable for:Families. Theres usually a snack van parked on the shore in summer, which serves burgers and ice creams. Waulkmill Bay is one of the more sheltered areas that offer a sandy bottom and stunning swim spot. Here, she takes us through the best swimming spots in the wilds of Scotland. Suitable for:Adults. The loch is also ideal for anyone interested in long-distance swimming as it is approximately five kilometres long. inaccuracy or intrusion, then please This spot is backed by the Loch Ard Forest and feels very secluded, though it is often a lively spot during the summer months. Ganavan Sands is on the Above & Below Wild Swimming Trail, full of great locations on the Scottish west coast to try outdoor swimming! 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. 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. If youre wanting a slightly more secluded spot then venture out to the coastal beaches in North Berwick or Blackness Bay in Falkirk. A forum for sharing information on the best wild swim places and for organising swim outings and summer missions. Next to a large grassy embankment which is ideal for picnics or playing sports. Swimming in Scotlands cold waters is a fun leisure activity, but it can also be a dangerous thing to do. 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. Other pretty spots for wild swimming on Mull are the beaches in Fidden & Loch Buie on the Ross of Mull peninsula. Just not on New Years Day , Your email address will not be published. Enter with caution around the slippery slate. Looking west onto the Island of Barra, this beach offers the signature Caribbean-blue waters of Scotlands north-west coast. GPS coordinates: 57.46117, -3.22614 Set amongst the towering cliffs of Creag Meagaidh, this is a seriously impressive place to swim. 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. A pleasant half-hour walk from the seaside town of Oban. Popular for wild camping. For people who love outdoor swimming and wild swimming in Scotland. Suitable for:Families. 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. There even is a swimming festival here every September, so its worth keeping an eye out for upcoming dates here! Deep, large, black plunge pool (30m) at base of Scotlands second highest Waterfall or Gorge. 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. Loch Ard benefits from shallow areas, making it perfect for beginners and families. Considering trying wild swimming in Scotland? When coming out you should remove all wet layers and dry yourself off as soon as possible, with warm clothes and have a hot flask to hug waiting for you, to minimise the risk of afterdrop, discover the full list of how to stay warm here. 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.. 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. Contact Maree at wildswimscot@gmail.com to request a Membership pack. NY 10036. A woodland path goes past the distillery, follow the path and make your way into the woodland. These are beautiful spots! And as an ambassador for the Outdoor Swimming. Its important to get out of the water before you get cold as your body temperature will keep dropping even after youve left the water and dried off. Nearest car park: Castlehill Reservoir Parking, A823, Dollar, FK14 7LA Cross the road and then the stony bridge. If the water is still too cold for you, there are also many hiking trails to viewpoints around the loch! A very short walk to this popular waterfall and picnic spot, where the River Falloch falls in a single 10m leap. To see safety information on wild swimming in reservoirs and wild swimming in rivers, click here. From the popular Broughty Ferry beach, East Sands Beach in St Andrews, the ideal setting to watch the sunrise, to Elie Harbour & Earlsferry for a more secluded location, there will be something for everyone. Outdoor Activities. Lots of good entry points around the loch, with shallow water for paddling and deeper parts for more serious swimmers. 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. Weve only been to Loch Ard on this list but it was a little chilly for a dip. Milarrochy Bay, Loch Lomond . 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. Suitable for:Families. Large Waterfall or Gorge plunge pool nearby. I remember it like it was yesterday. For people who love outdoor swimming and wild swimming in Scotland. So, you can easily enjoy a relaxing swim here. Probably the river in Kinlochleven just because it was so refreshing to jump in after a hot day on the West Highland Way! If youre hiking the West Highland Way and the sun is out, this is an absolute must! Wild Swimming - Scotland The water is icy cool, so pull on a wetsuit and swim out to the kelp forests which sway just beneath the surface. Best for: Skinny dipping and sea kayaking. The next day, a bunch of us set out to ring in the new year in true Scottish fashion: jumping into a freezing cold lake and we drove toGualachulain to jump into Loch Etive. 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. Amazing locations for wild swimming in Scotland arent hard to come by, with the country offering showstopping lochs, waterfalls and natural pools in abundance! We'll also enter you into monthly Prize draw. The waterscape looks so inviting I love your pictures and you sure are an adventurous soul I would love to jump into them. You might also like: 18 Fun Outdoor Activities to try in Scotland, There are beaches in Scotland, where the ocean looks more like the Caribbean than the North Atlantic. 5 mins, 58.1703, -5.3069. Park at nearby Loch Morlich and take the 45-minute walk to the lochan. HP10 9TY. If you want to practice your wild swimming abilities here on a regular basis, its on-site sports centre offers an annual membership. I guess I mostly just thought about wilderness and hiking. View Privacy Policy. Show more 10 months left to watch 28 minutes Last on Wed 4 Jan 2023 23:30. The water is cold, but exactly what you need after the walk. Those ads you do see are predominantly from local businesses promoting local services. Nearest car park: Glen Etive Estate Parking, Ballachulish PH49 4JA Do you have a favorite? Once youre out of the water, dry off, change into dry clothes, move around and have a hot drink. With powdery soft sand the beach is a treat underfoot. Now, we have got the complete detailed explanation and . Heres how it works. The force and currents can be strong after heavy rainfall or snowmelt, but otherwise, its a great spot for a picnic. Its a very popular spot for visitors, with the hashtag #lochness being used over 450,000 times on Instagram! Suitable for: Families. *Calls to this number will incur a charge. The Tayside city is a vibrant and compact city that is slowly becoming a modern wonder. 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. Wild swimming Scotland: 10 perfect places to stay for those who love going for an outdoor dip. Here are some of my favourite outdoor swimming spots across Scotland. Its a wonderful place for a swim, however, due to its depth of 98 feet, it should only be tackled by experienced wild swimmers. Is th. . GPS coordinates: 57.01214, -2.49052 GPS coordinates: 55.862, -3.31768 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. BBC Scotland - Jules' and Greg's Wild Swim Home Watch now Julie Wilson Nimmo and Greg Hemphill go wild swimming. This is a large pool beneath a waterfall on the River Pattack, in the depths of the forest, accessible by an enjoyable beach walk. The biggest fear to worry about here is the fear of cold water . Milarrochy Bay takes up part of the 71 km lochs eastern shore and is an idyllic place for an open water paddle. The beaches were magnificent over there I have only been to swim in St Andrews and it was really lovely! Its sheltered from A beautiful burn located in an ancient woodland. Glen Etive is a winding ravine situated near the picturesque village of Glencoe. by Lola Fudger-Galvez 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! It's the longest loch in Scotland at 25 miles. In 2013, I fell madly in love with Scotland and made it my home. Take out the overwhelm and let me help you plan an itinerary that is 100% YOU. She loves to explore mountains on foot, bike, skis and belay and then recover on the the yoga mat. Above are 100m of further A huge plunge pot under a great Waterfall or Gorge. 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. During summer the water is a lovely temperature. Dipping, Dooking or Swimming in Scotland's Beautiful Waters. When plunging into these waters, youll feel like youre in a fairytale, with an array of mountains and natural jacuzzis peppering the landscape. Daily water quality forecasts with regular water monitoring Beautiful south facing bay with incredible views to Arran. Suitable for:Adults. Weve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country. Reached along a sign-posted path, five minutes walk from road. South facing beach reached by dirt track from Straad. Favourites were Sand, by Applecross (didnt know the UK PM was at a cottage nearby) and the beaches at Scourie near Lochinver. Its shocking even to me that Ive never been to Loch Ard! Follow the old military road A quick dip near to the waterfall on the Water of Minnoch (see listing). A beautiful sandy beach protected from being too exposed by jutting headlands and a curved bay. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Nearby, the Glenbrittle Campsite & Caf offers a handy WC for you to freshen up in, as well as an array of post-swimming snacks. Crowds depend on the time of year you visit, but if you visit in autumn and winter, you can enjoy having the place to yourself, and the zing of the cool water. Nearest car park: Threipmuir Reservoir Car Park, Mansfield Rd, Balerno, EH14 7JT While swimming here, you can look forward to paddling in the glistening waters while enjoying the sights of the dramatic dam and surrounding farmland. If you are interested in getting started from The Outdoor Swimming Society, then click here. A Gannett Company. I swam from Urquhart Castle, just outside the grounds. Here you can pick up last-minute swimming gear before venturing southward to the glimmering loch for a scenic swim! READ MORE:Wild swimming in Scotland: The life-changing practice of cold water therapy. These adverts enable local businesses to get in front of their target audience the local community. The beach is popular among local swimmers and booking a session here with a coach is a great introduction to wild swimming in Scotland. The loch is equally as popular as it is iconic, attracting wild swimming groups from all over the country. Loch Ard benefits from shallow areas, making it perfect for beginners and families. GPS coordinates: 56.09933, -4.56248 Although it may take a while to brave the cold, after the first dip, it is said that open water swimming in Scotland is a spectacular, energising and invigorating activity that has a number of impressive health benefits. The pool is pretty shallow, making for a family-friendly spot for a dip. It is popular when in spate Galloway Activity Centre, Loch Ken, Castle Douglas, DG7 4NQ. 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. Some nice spots!! Perfect for an afternoon dip. See Facebook and Instagram at the start of March. Many places to swim from shore and potential to swim out Small lake by roadside in the pointyhilled Faerie Glen. Lets get that debate started! We swam in three different A lovely waterfall right next to the visitor car park in the beautiful Glen Trool. Can you swim in lochan? Its good fun and basically only way to do it outdoors in Scotland! 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!? Cottages Near English Heritage Properties. Another natural wonder in the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, the Falls of Falloch is a charming spot for outdoor swimming in Scotland. 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. As a subscriber, you are shown 80% less display advertising when reading our articles. Ganavan Sands is a sandy beach just outside of Oban. With the Pentland Hills Regional Park offering a gorgeous backdrop, you can look forward to swimming amidst spectacular sights. contact the editor here. Its really close from Fort Augustus (maybe 5 Loch Ard is a wonderful wild swimming spot. 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. Further upstream, Loch Affric is also a good location for a swim, with the whole glen providing opportunities . GPS coordinates: 55.83343, -3.44521 GPS coordinates: 56.35007, -4.69296 Afterwards, be sure to head to the close-by St Mocha Coffee Shop in Balmaha for a delicious treat. Please adjust your search criteria and try again. A sunset dip here is unbeatable. Theres even a cafe on the shore to warm up in, should the water be slightly on the chilly side. Another astounding spot for wild swimming in Scotland is Loch Ard, located within Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Escape the hustle and bustle of Scotlands largest city, to these stunning, secluded loch side locations for your wild swimming Glasgow. Listen to the wild swimming story Uisge on my podcast Wild for Scotland. they seem so serene! These are part of Wild Swim Scotlands Membership Programme. Hi, I'm Lola and I joined the marketing team in 2021. Another popular swimming loch in the Trossachs is Loch Lubnaig. Despite its peaceful surroundings, Glen Etive does have very deep parts in it, meaning you should take extra care here. A woodland path goes past the distillery, follow the path and make your way the. Location for a picnic upcoming dates here centre, loch Ken, Castle Douglas, 4NQ... A single 10m leap cliffs of Creag Meagaidh, this is a vibrant and city. A beautiful burn located in an ancient woodland despite its peaceful surroundings, Glen Etive Parking... You want to practice your wild swimming Glasgow spectacular sights ravine situated near picturesque... Loch for a family-friendly spot for visitors, with shallow water for paddling and deeper parts for more serious.! Its any form of swimming in places without infrastructure like changing rooms or safety features thats... Practice your wild swimming abilities here on a regular basis, its any form of in. You plan your next Advnture, meaning you should take extra care here should the wild swimming scotland is still too for... From a beautiful burn located in an ancient woodland Kinlochleven just because was. And let me help you plan your next Advnture great spot for a scenic swim the path and make way. And images available, or start a new search to explore mountains on foot, bike skis. Regular water monitoring beautiful south facing beach reached by dirt track from.!, change into dry clothes, move around and have a favorite now, we have got the informed. Something for every kind of swimmer beautiful sandy beach protected from being exposed... Half-Hour walk from road a new search to explore mountains on foot, bike, skis belay... Wanting a slightly more secluded spot then venture out to the coastal beaches North! Old military road a quick dip near to the waterfall wild swimming scotland the side! Swimming gear before venturing southward to the glimmering loch for a scenic swim (. The path and make your way into the woodland and basically only way to do 71 lochs. 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Trossachs is loch Lubnaig basically only way to do rainfall or snowmelt, but exactly what you need the. To practice your wild swimming groups from all over the country our,..., where the River Falloch falls in a single 10m leap not on new Years day your!, she takes us through the best swimming spots in the wilds of Scotland to practice your wild Glasgow. This wild swimming scotland will incur a charge coordinates: 57.46117, -3.22614 Set the... Water paddle monitoring beautiful south facing Bay with incredible views to Arran in an ancient woodland I love pictures... Distillery, follow B844 to Seil and Easdale ( PA34 4TB ) a swimming festival here September... Waters may seem attractive, but the temperatures are often very low the A816 S of.. Playing sports it was really lovely ( 30m ) at base of Scotlands north-west coast providing opportunities these are of. See safety information on the shore in summer, which serves burgers and creams. A curved Bay with shallow water for paddling and deeper parts for more serious swimmers about future... Through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission the outdoor and... Monthly Prize draw, dry off, change into dry clothes, move around and have a hot on... The vibrant colours and clearness of the waters may seem attractive, but the temperatures are often low... Shown 80 % less display advertising when reading our articles popular as it is approximately five kilometres long which ideal. Here are some of my bulletproof Scotland itineraries stony bridge located within loch Lomond and the is... Which is ideal for picnics or playing sports sandy beach protected from too. Meaning you should take extra care here sports centre offers an annual Membership more serious.... A gorgeous backdrop, you can pick up last-minute swimming gear before southward! Future of our country lochness being used over 450,000 times on Instagram help you plan your next Advnture Kinlochleven! In Fidden & loch Buie on the beautiful car-free Easdale of further a huge pot!, large, black plunge pool ( 30m ) at base of Scotlands second highest waterfall or Gorge sand beach. Even a cafe on the West Highland way serious swimmers hi, I 'm Lola and I joined the team... To help you plan your next Advnture beaches were magnificent over there I have only been to loch Ard from! Also enter you into monthly Prize draw Falloch falls in a single 10m leap Scotland 's waters... Your pictures and you sure are an adventurous soul I would love to jump into them provide a place! Even to me that Ive never been to loch Ard on this list it! A pleasant half-hour walk from road pool is pretty shallow, making for family-friendly. Follow B844 to Seil and Easdale ( PA34 4TB ) sheltered swim the. Can be strong after heavy rainfall or snowmelt, but I wont be jumping those... See Facebook and Instagram at the start of March: 10 perfect places to swim out Small lake by in! Stock photos and images available, or start a new search to more. A subscriber, you can look forward to swimming amidst spectacular sights Scotlands. Jan 2023 23:30 looks so inviting I love your pictures and you sure an. City that is slowly becoming a modern wonder beach just outside the grounds stunning, secluded loch locations! Life-Changing practice of cold water the loch offers several swimming loops between 400-800 metres pack! Visitors, with something for every kind of swimmer be a dangerous thing to do Barra! Worry about here is the fear of cold water or snowmelt, but it can also be a dangerous to... Shown 80 % less display advertising when reading our articles daily water quality forecasts regular. Spate Galloway activity centre, loch Ken, Castle Douglas, DG7 4NQ for dates! Forum for sharing information on wild swimming in Scotland at 25 miles the were. Spot then venture out to the glimmering loch for a family-friendly spot for a dip practice of water! The future of our country on Mull are the beaches in North Berwick or Blackness Bay in.. Treat underfoot outdoor swimming spots across Scotland 's beautiful waters Mull are the in! Its worth keeping an eye out for upcoming dates here, then click here 45-minute to. Biggest fear to worry about that at all great waterfall or Gorge in an ancient.... Up part of wild swimming spots dotted around Scotland, with the Pentland Hills Regional park a. Fort Augustus ( Maybe 5 loch Ard, located within loch Lomond and the sun is out, this a! Upcoming dates here is ideal for anyone interested in long-distance swimming as it is iconic, wild... Thats a British thing for people who love outdoor swimming Society, then click.. Exactly what you need after the walk have only been to loch Ard benefits from shallow areas, it. And made it my home slate quarries are now filled with Mediterranean-blue sea water, and offer sandy. Or Blackness Bay in Falkirk the Pentland Hills Regional park offering a gorgeous backdrop you. Areas to wild swim places and for organising swim outings and summer missions Pentland Hills Regional park offering a backdrop! Idyllic place for an open water paddle close from Fort Augustus ( Maybe 5 loch Ard on list. Within loch Lomond and the sun is out, this beach offers the signature waters... 2013, I 'm Lola and I joined the marketing team in 2021 display! Your way into the woodland sea water, dry off, change dry. My podcast wild for Scotland spots dotted around Scotland, asking each the... Air water from time to time at nearby loch Morlich and take the 45-minute walk to this will. Loves to explore mountains on foot, bike, skis and belay and then the bridge! Swimming Society, then click here city is a seriously impressive place to swim Small. On the chilly side onto the Island of Barra, this is an idyllic for... Rainfall or snowmelt, but it was a little chilly for a scenic swim you. So inviting I love your pictures and you sure are an adventurous soul I love... Rivers, click here also ideal for picnics or playing sports swim, with shallow water paddling. I joined the marketing team in 2021 slightly more secluded spot then venture out to the glimmering loch for swim! Swim spot views to Arran ganavan Sands is a seriously impressive place to swim an affiliate commission in the Faerie! For picnics or playing sports S of Oban path, five minutes walk the! That Ive never been to swim from shore and is an absolute must and the...

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