Nearest car park: Car Park, Stirling, Crianlarich, FK20 8RX Elegant white A beautiful wide gorge opening out to very large, still river pool (200m). Though wild swimming requires no memberships, clubs and swimming groups around the UK also saw a surge in interest during the pandemic. Not only is the loch in the middle of some of the most stunning Scottish terrain about, its also suitable for windsurfing (so watch out when youre swimming). Suitable for:Families. Best for: Skinny dipping and sea kayaking. If you dont want to venture out as far, or youre looking for something less secluded there are also a range of stunning reservoirs to visit in Stirling, to carry out open water swimming. 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. Drawing on her vast experience as a long-distance swimmer and open water swimming coach, Alice has hand-picked locations to help you experience Scotland at its wild and rugged . There will be four levels of membership; Dolphin Membership - 20 Swim Vouchers - 130 (Spring / Summer starts 1/4/23, valid until 30/9/23) From shallow rivers perfect for children and pets to paddle in, to silver stretches of sand on windswept islands. I just ordered a wet-suits for future adventures , I hadnt thought about Scotland this way before, thanks for sharing some great notes! 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. Our membership programme will include swim vouchers, which can then be used to book sessions as shown on our events calendar. During the summer months, Glaswegians go to any lengths to find a sunny spot so it would be rare to find these quiet. Hi, I'm Lola and I joined the marketing team in 2021. This summer I visited the north east and swam off every beach from by Oban to Durness. There are also some From the A82 take a narrow single track road. James Armour is the first person to swim, run and cycle the entire length of the Outer Hebrides, a chain of islands off the west coast of Scotland, Scotland is notorious for challenging weather it averages 100 days of snow per year and is no stranger to frigid winters and frequent gale force winds, Not only is summer more tolerable, it means that you can consider starting out with wild swimming without purchasing pricey gear like a wetsuit, Afterdrop is the name given to a phenomenon where youll actually be at your coldest about 10 minutes after you exit the water, 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, Scotland has an abundance of gorgeous wild swimming spots to choose from. Located in the heart of Scotland, Perthshire is home to a gorgeous palace, ancient residence of Scottish monarchs and is easily accessible from all major cities. Nearest car park: Threipmuir Reservoir Car Park, Mansfield Rd, Balerno, EH14 7JT During summer the water is a lovely temperature. 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. Learn more about responsible tourism and "treading lightly" in nature on the Visit Scotland website. A true Scottish hidden gem, Inversnaid Waterfall is a magical place for a spot of wild swimming in Scotland! Trying to swim in the sea? These water bodies are gorgeous and so inviting headed there in October but likely no wild swimming for me. I love these spots though! You might also like: My guide to the Ross of Mull incl. 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. 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. Weve only been to Loch Ard on this list but it was a little chilly for a dip. This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. If you are new to Cold Water Swimming / Dipping, you will be required to take a number of 1:1 sessions to ensure you are safe to join in our group sessions. Another great Scottish swimming area for families, Threipmuir Reservoir isnt too deep and is also unusually warm due to having large amounts of peat. Looks absolutely beautiful, and Id love to visit, but I wont be jumping in those cold waters! 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. 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. With Scotland's right to roam access, you legally have your pick of swimming spots, as long as you do so responsibly. 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. On Watch Me See I share travel guides, itineraries and tons of practical tips for visiting Scotland. Park at nearby Loch Morlich and take the 45-minute walk to the lochan. Perfect for an afternoon dip. . A dramatic glen with perfect river pools running very close to road. 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. One of the most enticing beaches in the north of the country and theres a fair amount of competition. Nearest car park: Little Vantage car park, Unnamed Road, Kirknewton, EH27 8DJ One of these is the gorgeous Harlaw Reservoir, where wild swims can be enjoyed amidst peaceful surroundings! 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!? Uncover all you need to know about wild swimming safety by reading our guide to wild swimming in the UK. 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. 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. In summer it just comes alive. Im aware that I am myself one of these visitors! Due to the reservoir being part of the Cairns Farm Estate, it also makes for a quiet area for a dip. Once on the island there is a series of quarry pools. It is important that we continue to promote these adverts as our local businesses need as much support as possible during these challenging times. Cross the road and then the stony bridge. Nearest car park: Conic Hill Car Park, Balmaha, Glasgow, G63 0JQ 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! These shimmering pools have made this list due to being open all year round and being a beautiful area for a wild swim. SwimWild is all about having fun and building confidence and skills in open water in breathtakingly beautiful parts of Scotland's Highlands & Islands. 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. Available to pre-order soon. 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. The popularity of wild swimming has exploded in recent years, with the mental health benefits being increasingly promoted by its advocates. A medium-sized beach, with soft sand and clear water. Your Customer ID is: Sign up to receive discounts, exclusive offers, travel tips and guides. A Gannett Company. 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. 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. So thats why weve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. Dundee is labelled Scotlands sunniest city, so makes for the ideal location to ease yourself into the cold Scottish waters to wild swim. Good plunge pools above falls. 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. It was our third day on the West Highland Way and so far the hottest. (Unless you spot some rubbish in that case, take it home with you.). Nearby, the Glenbrittle Campsite & Caf offers a handy WC for you to freshen up in, as well as an array of post-swimming snacks. Follow the old military road A quick dip near to the waterfall on the Water of Minnoch (see listing). Enter with caution around the slippery slate. The L-shaped pool is the usual swimming one. Be warned, though, that the pure mountain water filling the pools can be somewhat cold. And if you think thats a mouthful, just wait for how cold the water is! 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. www.wildthingspublishing.com/product/wild-guide-scotland-book/, 2011 - 2014 Wild Swimming Community Contributors, Captcha VerificationCaptcha Verification Word Verification. When sites do not meet the desired standard, investigative work is undertaken to eliminate or lessen pollution sources. Stunning islanded lake, rich in original Caledonian pine. Every year, people drown in Scotland because of cold water shock. We'll also enter you into monthly Prize draw. Gaelic for 'small green loch', the waters offer a perfect spot for a dip after a stroll through the surrounding pine forests. Lucy and Marees Jellyfish Sale in aid of Kidney Kids come and enjoy a swim in the sea where the only jelly fish in sight will be our beautiful, individualistic, hand crafted ones hanging on the Groyn waiting for you to choose your favourite to take home with you. The barrier to the car park is coin-operated. Discover the best wild swim locations in Scotland, whether a river swim, a lake or even a waterfall. Since we lose a lot of body heat via our heads, I recommend wearing a woollen hat unless you want to submerge your head. The loch offers several swimming loops between 400-800 metres. To find out, we caught up with wild swimmer James Armour (opens in new tab), who we figured would know best since in 2021 he became the first person to swim, run and cycle the entire length of the Outer Hebrides, a chain of islands off the west coast of Scotland. At fork, follow sign for Coire Ardair. Despite being only a few hours from Glasgow and Edinburgh, it's an incredibly beautiful place, surrounded by lush . There are two main areas to wild swim in Edinburgh. The Tayside city is a vibrant and compact city that is slowly becoming a modern wonder. The loch is equally as popular as it is iconic, attracting wild swimming groups from all over the country. I was lucky enough to see a grey Park at the Sligachan Hotel. Along its length, the river running through Glen Etive has a limitless number of spots for swimming. Backed by the cliffs of Treryn Dinas, this sandy beach has clear waters and fantastic rock formations . Finishing off this section of locations for wild swimming in Scotland is Harperrig Reservoir. After 4 miles find Fairy Pool car park on L. Cross road and follow the clear path down and then up the valley, crossing the minor stream and then keeping the Allt Coir a Mhadaidh river on your R for mile to find several falls and pools. 7 Beautiful Places for Wild Swimming in Scotland. Neighbouring Harlaw Reservoir is another spot for wild swimming in Scotland, Threipmuir Reservoir. 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. For strong swimmers, there is a large rock used for jumping off on the west side. If the water is still too cold for you, there are also many hiking trails to viewpoints around the loch! There is nothing quite like dipping into a clear, steady loch, whilst surrounded by Scotland's most beautiful backdrops. From which I may make a commission year round and being a beautiful area a... 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