Scotland's beautiful landscapes mean we have some of the most stunning wild swimming spots in the world. We all know about the amazing benefits wild swimming haS for our mental health. It's just a case of being bold enough to brave the cold!
So if you love nature and the thrill of a refreshing dip outdoors, here are 15 top spots scattered across Scotland that will give you an unforgettable experience.
Each location is unique, offering beauty, clear waters, and a chance to connect with nature. From tranquil lochs to enchanting pools and dramatic coastlines, I've put my pick of places to plan a memorable wild swimming adventure. My favourite has to be Sandwood Bay, if you have the time to get there.
Loch an Eilein, Cairngorms
Location: Cairngorms National Park
Description: Nestled within ancient pine forests, Loch an Eilein is known for its castle ruins on a small island. The calm, clear waters are perfect for a tranquil swim in breathtaking scenery.
Parking: There is a car park at Loch an Eilein Visitor Centre.
Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye
Location: Glen Brittle, Isle of Skye
Description: The crystal-clear blue pools with their amazing waterfalls attract a lot of swimmers seeking out their magical (and instagrammable?) experience so if you want this to be good, get there very early or very off-season. The water can be cold (freezing!), so you might want a wetsuit.
Parking: There's a car park at the start of the Fairy Pools trail.
Loch Morlich, Aviemore
Location: Glenmore Forest Park, Aviemore
Description: A sandy beach against the backdrop of the Cairngorms makes Loch Morlich a popular spot. The fresh mountain water is invigorating, and the area is well-equipped with facilities including a café and changing rooms.
Parking: There is ample parking at the Loch Morlich Beach car park.
Loch Lubnaig, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs
Location: Near Callander, The Trossachs
Description: Surrounded by forested hills, Loch Lubnaig is a serene spot for a swim. The water is relatively shallow at the edges, making it suitable for families.
Parking: The Ben Ledi Viewpoint car park gives you easy access.
Feshiebridge, River Feshie
Location: Near Kingussie, Cairngorms
Description: A popular spot with locals, the River Feshie has clear, refreshing water and beautiful surroundings. There are several pools and gentle rapids, making it ideal for a summer swim.
Parking: There are small parking areas near Feshiebridge.
Loch an t-Saile, Isle of Harris
Location: Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides
Description: If you're on the island, this gem has clear, turquoise waters surrounded by stunning landscapes. Ideal for a peaceful swim in a remote setting.
Parking: Park at the small car park near the village of Luskentyre and walk to the loch.
Loch Ness, Dores Beach
Location: Dores, Inverness
Description: I know people who love swimming here. Dores Beach is a dramatic setting for a swim and the water is deep and dark, which gives it a bit of mystique. Still, while I'm no Nessie believer, hearing so much about her when I was wee makes me wonder if I'd find this place calm or not!
Parking: Dores Beach has its own car park.
Sanna Bay, Ardnamurchan Peninsula
Location: Ardnamurchan Peninsula, Highland
Description: Known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, Sanna Bay looks almost tropical. And when you've a bout of warm weather the sea isn't too cold, as it washes over warm sand. Not often, but I've known it to be quite a nice temperature! The bay is remote, so it has a good sense of adventure and isolation.
Parking: There's a small car park near the beach.
Loch Caoldair, Laggan
Location: Near Laggan, Scottish Highlands
Description: A hidden gem, Loch Caoldair is pure seclusion and tranquility. The loch is surrounded by hills and woodland, which leads to a peaceful swim away from the crowds.
Parking: Park at the Laggan Wolftrax Centre and follow the walking trail.
Loch Lomond, Milarrochy Bay
Location: Balmaha, Loch Lomond
Description: As Scotland's largest loch, Loch Lomond has lots of spots for swimming. Milarrochy Bay is a scenic and popular area, with clear, shallow waters.
Parking: Milarrochy Bay car park is conveniently located nearby.
Loch Tay, Kenmore Beach
Location: Kenmore, Perthshire
Description: With its vast expanse, Loch Tay offers plenty of opportunities for wild swimming. Kenmore Beach is a well-known spot with clean, cold water and beautiful surroundings.
Parking: The Kenmore car park offers easy access to the beach.
Loch Trool, Galloway Forest Park
Location: Galloway Forest Park, Dumfries and Galloway
Description: Loch Trool is nestled in the heart of Galloway Forest Park, and it's a serene and picturesque swimming spot. The loch is surrounded by lush forest and hills.
Parking: The Bruce's Stone car park is a short walk from the loch.
Loch Shiel, Glenfinnan
Location: Glenfinnan, Scottish Highlands
Description: Most people now come for the viaduct of Harry Potter fame, but this loch has the most stunning history and scenery. When the weather is fine, it's a lovely peaceful swimming experience, if you go further along the loch from the monument, where visitors congregate. The loch is long and narrow, surrounded by majestic mountains.
Parking: The Glenfinnan Visitor Centre car park provides access to the loch, but to be honest you have to go either very early or totally off-season as in high season the car park is packed with visitors seeking out a Harry Potter experience..
Loch Voil, Balquhidder
Location: Balquhidder, The Trossachs
Description: A tranquil loch set in a remote glen, Loch Voil is perfect for a peaceful swim. The surrounding hills add to the scenic beauty.
Parking: There's a small car park near Balquhidder village.
And if you'd like to find out more about wild swimming in Scotland, I sell some fantastic Wild Swimming books on Made Scotland. Click on the links to find out more:
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