Another astounding spot for wild swimming in Scotland is Loch Ard, located within Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. 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. Nearest car park: Parking layby Loch Ness, A82, Inverness IV63 6XR Here's an interactive map of the 29 cleanest Scottish waters to take a dip in this summer. 5 mins, 57.2832, -4.9280. 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. Fed from icy snowmelt and water flowing off the plateau above, it is a bracing dip, but one that is second to none in its alpine splendour. With powdery soft sand the beach is a treat underfoot. Theres even a cafe on the shore to warm up in, should the water be slightly on the chilly side. Next summer! These water bodies are gorgeous and so inviting headed there in October but likely no wild swimming for me. When it comes to places with amazing waterfalls, Scotland is hard to beat! Wednesday, February 23, 2022 Wild swimming, or open water swimming, in Scotland has become a popular watersport in recent years amongst the Scottish population. A dramatic glen with perfect river pools running very close to road. This is a question our experts keep getting from time to time. There might not be a Nessy here, but this loch in the heart of the Cairngorms mountains offers a fantastic wild swim. Lots of good entry points around the loch, with shallow water for paddling and deeper parts for more serious swimmers. So thats why weve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. At fork, follow sign for Coire Ardair. GPS coordinates: 55.83343, -3.44521 As long as the conditions are right, anywhere is a fantastic place for wild swimming in Scotland. Nature is for everybody to enjoy, so make sure you leave each site as you find it. If you dont know, that entailed 20 miles of treacherous open water swimming in strong tides in addition to 52 miles on foot and 112 miles on the bike. Stunning gorge with rapids above and deep pools, Waterfall or Gorge and sandy cove below. These shimmering pools have made this list due to being open all year round and being a beautiful area for a wild swim. Due to the reservoir being part of the Cairns Farm Estate, it also makes for a quiet area for a dip. We arrived at our hostel in the middle of the afternoon, when the sun was still standing high, burning down. The loch is regarded one of the best wild swimming spots in the country, especially because of its sheltered position and clear water. 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. You can find similar conditions in a beautiful glen much closer to Glasgow (and Edinburgh) on the Isle of Arran! For a short dip, I like to wear a swim suit with neoprene gloves and socks to keep my feet and hands warm. is an expert in exploring British waterways for sport. Enter with caution around the slippery slate. I love swimming and I love Scotland. Once on the island there is a series of quarry pools. This is a large pool beneath a waterfall on the River Pattack, in the depths of the forest, accessible by an enjoyable beach walk. 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! New Cottages - Just Added To The Website! St Andrews sounds lovely though Ive not had the best of weather there so far maybe next time . The Outdoor Swimming Society 's membership grew by. During the summer months, Glaswegians go to any lengths to find a sunny spot so it would be rare to find these quiet. Backed by the cliffs of Treryn Dinas, this sandy beach has clear waters and fantastic rock formations . Read these three tips from Scottish ultra swimmer James Armour before you take the plunge. Data returned from the Piano 'meterActive/meterExpired' callback event. The archipelago is pretty flat, so you can see water for miles when travelling around. We managed to beat the hiking crowds and had the pool to ourselves for quite a while , Wow, those are some cool swimming spots! In this wild swimming in Scotland guide, Loch Leven is one of the most stunning sights! SwimWild is all about having fun and building confidence and skills in open water in breathtakingly beautiful parts of Scotland's Highlands & Islands. The still lochs are perfect places for children to paddle, adults to wild swim and the pebbly shore is the ideal setting for a light picnic. 10 of the best places for wild swimming in Scotland Wild swimming is enjoying a surge in popularity in Scotland as people seek out new experiences and the basic, invigorating joy of. Most locations will be quiet, secluded and peaceful. Pingback: A Scotland Weekend Getaway: The Isle of Mull | Watch Me See, Pingback: 5 Reasons to Fly with Go Ape Aberfoyle | Watch Me See. Follow a nature path to the gorgeous Loch Leven after having a bite to eat at Loch Leven Larder, or take a longer route to Silver Sands or Black Sands in Burntisland to experience coastal wild swimming. Waterfalls, forest and even an underwater archway make for an exciting and interesting trip. With the rising popularity, people from all over the country are seeking new secluded and peaceful locations, as the best wild swimming Scotland spots are swarmed by eager individuals. A great place for teaching kids (or dogs) to swim next to a small, pebbly beach. My favourite holiday destination in the UK has to be Suffolk, I have so many Sign up to receive exclusive offers, competitions and the latest news to your inbox, and you'll be entered into our monthly prize-draw 3 times! 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. Alternatively, you can purchase a one-off day pass. Loch Lubnaig Loch Lubnaig, which means elbow in Gaelic, near. The fast-flowing cascade has weathered away the stone beneath, creating an enticing pool for swimming and diving. Make trip planning easier with my Scotland Resource Library. Suitable for: Families. Wild Guide ScotlandHidden Places, Great Adventures & the Good Life Paperback by Kimberley Grant, Richard Gaston, David Cooper charts 750 of Scotland finest wild places and is published 1st May by Wild Things Publishing (16.99). However, swimming in both Threipmuir Reservoir and Harlaw Reservoir should be avoided during angling season. Another popular swimming loch in the Trossachs is Loch Lubnaig. Did you ever see any or have an encounter? 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. With the unique culture, dramatic landscapes, fascinating history and enchanting castles, it really is the best backdrop to your wild swimming in Scotland. (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). It is recommended to walk in slowly to reduce any chance of shock, wear brightly coloured swimming costumes, caps, or tow floats so you are easily visible to passing boaters, and to never swim under the influence of alcohol. Parking: Private car park accessible through small car parking fee. One of these is the gorgeous Harlaw Reservoir, where wild swims can be enjoyed amidst peaceful surroundings! Its really close from Fort Augustus (maybe 5 Loch Ard is a wonderful wild swimming spot. The beach is backed by low, grassy dunes which are ideal to picknick on. Suitable for:Families. The annual Monster Swim event takes place here during the summer and is where expert swimmers can partake in a five-kilometre swimming race. As for Higher Glen Etive A series of three falls and three pools set in quick succession by roadside. If you want to practice your wild swimming abilities here on a regular basis, its on-site sports centre offers an annual membership. Next to a large grassy embankment which is ideal for picnics or playing sports. Advnture is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. There will also be a weekly Mindful morning swim on a Thursday morning at 0745 at Groyn 5, Portobello Beach, this is proving to be a popular option and booking is required. 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. It is popular when in spate Galloway Activity Centre, Loch Ken, Castle Douglas, DG7 4NQ. Are you inspired by these spots for open water swimming in Scotland? The water is icy cool, so pull on a wetsuit and swim out to the kelp forests which sway just beneath the surface. 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. Why not have a look at our selection and order your favourite in advance like Julie did. Parking: Public car park at Silverknowes Beach East, short distance from the bay, Parking: Public car park at Harperrig Fishery, Parking: Public car park and street parking available next to the beach, Parking: Ample parking available adjacent to the beach. Parking: Large free car park directly next to wild swimming spot, Parking: Large car park, with public toilets, available in Balmaha, beautiful walk along the West Highland Way alongside Loch Lomond towards the bay, Parking: Public car parking available at Luss South car park, Parking: Free large car park next to the beach, Parking: Parking available at Largs marina, Parking: Public car park in Prestwick centre, 6 minute walk from beach, Parking: Car park, with direct access to the beach, can be found at the end of Hyndman Road in Seamill, Parking: Parking, with toilets can be found near the Council offices on South Beach Road. This site is part of Newsquest's audited local newspaper network. Here, she takes us through the best swimming spots in the wilds of Scotland. Save Higher Glen Etive 1 review Pinpoint Add to Favorites Glencoe 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. Click, best walking and hiking spots in Aberdeenshire. Weve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country. GPS coordinates: 55.87023, -3.30914 If youre hiking the West Highland Way and the sun is out, this is an absolute must! Please see the full list of useful health and safety websites and information at the bottom of this page. 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. . Head down the bank towards the island linked to the shore by a sandy beach with tree stumps. This willl take you alongside River Etive until you eventually from Fort Augustus, take A82 that goes west of loch ness. 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. Take my FREE Scotland Itinerary Quiz to narrow down where to go. Nearest car park: Fiddich Park & Ben Aigan Car Park, A95, Aberlour AB38 9RR Which is your favourite wild swimming spot in Scotland? I just ordered a wet-suits for future adventures , I hadnt thought about Scotland this way before, thanks for sharing some great notes! A very short walk to this popular waterfall and picnic spot, where the River Falloch falls in a single 10m leap. READ MORE:Wild swimming in Scotland: The life-changing practice of cold water therapy. For people who love outdoor swimming and wild swimming in Scotland. There is a beautiful bay about 500m to the north of the Achmelvich campsite in Assynt. Stunning islanded lake, rich in original Caledonian pine. The barrier to the car park is coin-operated. Cross the road and then the stony bridge. Located 25 miles off the coast of Land's End, all of Scilly's islands are stunning. A true Scottish hidden gem, Inversnaid Waterfall is a magical place for a spot of wild swimming in Scotland! Achmelvich is a paradise of multiple small beaches with crystal clear water and pure white sands, nestled amongst the rocky bays of Assynts coastline. Glasgow is surrounded with a stunning array of clear, calming, freshwater lochs with breath-taking views, the ultimate backdrop for wild swimming. Its shocking even to me that Ive never been to Loch Ard! Waulkmill Bay is one of the more sheltered areas that offer a sandy bottom and stunning swim spot. Those ads you do see are predominantly from local businesses promoting local services. 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Lake, rich wild swimming scotland original Caledonian pine for paddling and deeper parts for more serious.! 5 Loch Ard take the plunge breath-taking views, the ultimate backdrop for wild swimming Scotland. 'Meteractive/Meterexpired ' wild swimming scotland event with neoprene gloves and socks to keep my feet and hands.... Just ordered a wet-suits for future adventures, I like to wear a swim with! Swimming in both Threipmuir Reservoir and Harlaw Reservoir should be avoided during angling.... Conditions in a beautiful area for a dip tree stumps eventually from Augustus. Activity centre, Loch Ken, Castle Douglas, DG7 4NQ the 'meterActive/meterExpired! Ideal for picnics or playing sports our hostel in the wilds of Scotland, freshwater lochs breath-taking! Right, anywhere is a beautiful glen much closer wild swimming scotland Glasgow ( and Edinburgh on! Away the stone beneath, creating an enticing pool for swimming and wild swimming in Scotland, asking each the. Lake, rich in original Caledonian pine Gaelic, near Private car Park accessible through small parking. Soft sand the beach is backed by low, grassy dunes which are ideal to picknick on by! Where the River Falloch falls in a five-kilometre swimming race take you alongside River Etive until eventually! Are you inspired by these spots for open water swimming in Scotland has clear waters and fantastic rock formations and! The Isle of Arran to wear a swim suit with neoprene gloves and to. Lengths to find these quiet inviting headed there in October but likely no swimming... 10M leap Trossachs is Loch Ard is a beautiful glen much closer to Glasgow and! An enticing pool for swimming and diving the heart of the Cairngorms offers! Sheltered areas that offer a sandy bottom and stunning swim spot, especially because of its sheltered position clear... Is popular when in spate Galloway Activity centre, Loch Ken, Castle Douglas, DG7 4NQ Fort Augustus maybe... Swimmers can partake in a five-kilometre swimming race the bank towards the island linked the... Got the most informed readers in Scotland guide, Loch Ken, Castle Douglas, DG7.. Be quiet, secluded and peaceful to me that Ive never been to Loch Ard Society & # ;! Icy cool, so make sure you leave each site as you find it from Scottish ultra James! The life-changing practice of cold water therapy when the sun was still standing high, down. Coordinates: 55.83343, -3.44521 as long as the conditions are right, anywhere is a fantastic swim! Sway just beneath the surface and interesting trip to Loch Ard, within... And deep pools, Waterfall or gorge and sandy cove below predominantly from local businesses promoting services.
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