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. The intimate city is surrounded with natural beauty. These are beautiful spots! Headcurrents will boost your progress downstream but beware of hidden rocks in some of the shallow areas. Devotees of wild swimming say it cant be beaten for mental and physical health. Basically, its any form of swimming in places without infrastructure like changing rooms or safety features Maybe thats a British thing! Taking the plunge: an exploration into wild swimming. The River Orchy is a beautiful river in Glen Orchy east of Dalmally. Loved by:Shetland blogger and influencer, Bee @bumblebambi. You'd probably need to drive or get a lift to those though. Another astounding spot for wild swimming in Scotland is Loch Ard, located within Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. 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. She has now been back living in Scotland for several years, and too braved the cold temperatures, with more success than myself, I might add. Continue past the river mouth to Buck Bay (about an hours walk) for white sand, rocky outcrops and plenty of driftwood. As well as the beauty that surrounds our hotels and inns, find out why you should choose Crerar Hotels, here. Saltcoats Beach , just watch out for the floating jobbies. Swim in some of the best waterways in the Scottish Highlands, including a hop over to the stunning Isle of Skye. Use a swim specific wetsuit this will have specific panelling to provide the full range of movement needed for swimming. Theres a Facebook group called southside swimmers which is quite popular. Surrounded by Munros and walking trails, the stunning stretch of water has a sandy bay giving great access to the water, and its proximity to the town of Balmaha means you can warm up with a hot beverage from St Mocha Coffee Shop after your dip. Explore the latest videos from hashtags: #wildswimming, #wildswimmingengland, #wildseaswimming, wild ducks. The Orchy flows down Glen Orchy east of Dalmally. In the summer, the sea water can even reach an almost tropical 14 C. Beta site: were developing a new website to help make your trip to Scotland even better. . to do this safely. Dan the Merman
Which is your favourite wild swimming spot in Scotland? wild swimming experiences for all abilities
Elegant white A beautiful wide gorge opening out to very large, still river pool (200m). If in doubt, dont go out. However, I would be concerned about eels, mainly in the lochs. Oh brill, thanks. Scotland might nothave the hot springs of Iceland or the sauna culture of Finland, but weve got something else: cold water that is perfect for wild swimming! The Scottish Highlands is one of the most picturesque locations in the world, and is usually what people imagine when they think of Scotland. 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. Glasgow is surrounded with a stunning array of clear, calming, freshwater lochs with breath-taking views, the ultimate backdrop for wild swimming. Swimmers, a group of. How about a gorgeous beach swim next? The Coach - Mhorag. 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. Call the coastguard on: Call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard in an emergency. And icy-cold it was nevertheless I jumped in three times from different heights and swam a few strokes to cool down. Above & Below Argyll & The Isles Wild Swimming Trail. Get Started. To the OP: Go to the hills and go swimming all the way, please. Wild swimming is swimming outdoors in The ever-changing scenery is spectacular. The coast of Argyll is studded with inhabited and uninhabited islands and fresh water and sea lochs which offer wonderful, sheltered waters for wild swimming. 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. Useful information on the health & safety of Wild Swimming Scotland. Discover, compare and book the best Open Water Swimming events near you. He or she will empower you with open water skills and be qualified to manage your safety so that you can enjoy a safe and valuable experience. Take my FREE Scotland Itinerary Quiz to narrow down where to go. Here are some top tips to stay safe whilst having fun: Get some great safety information from this Scottish Swimming video. I believe there are buses to Luss and Balmaha as well which are both popular spots to swim. Loved by: The Wild Ones wild swimming group. Located on the west coast of Bute, Scalpsie, is a stunning south facing bay while Ettrick has a sheltered sandy beach. However, as the temperatures rise again into the spring and summer, it might be something to investigate further and have a shot at for many. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. The loch is regarded one of the best wild swimming spots in the country, especially because of its sheltered position and clear water. My aunt was a keen triathlete when living in the Netherlands. On no account swim towards the lock or the steps on the lock lay by. 2011 - 2014 Wild Swimming Community Contributors, Captcha VerificationCaptcha Verification Word Verification, Grey Mares Tail Burn Galloway Forest Park, Clugie Linn Palnure Burn Galloway Forest Park, Lettermay Burn Lochgoilhead Argyll Forest Park, Water of Trool Glen trool Galloway Forest Park. Is it called Glasgow bluetits because the waters that cold you freeze yer tits aff?! With a ~10am high of 11.3C, today is Hamilton's How will the weather be in the last week of January in Crazy guy kayaking the river Kelvin earlier today. involved participants swimming for. . 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 can take many forms, whether it is the swimming itself, the splashing around and having a laugh in the "bouncy" waves or the race to get dressed and have coffee and cake, sitting on the beach afterwards, in a desperate attempt to warm up and reflect on the experience. I will check out all that xxxxxxxx, You can get to Dumbrock via Mingavie train station, it's an hour's walk/half hour cycle through Mugdock Park, if you're really lazy you can even get a taxi for that part. Find Bee on Instagram. No matter how much preparation you do, or how experienced you are, if a swim doesnt feel right there is no shame in getting out of the water straight away, or not entering. Head to TrighMhr and youll discover beautiful unspoilt golden-white sand and clear waters with an amazing coastal backdrop. Wild swimming could be a new adventure for those who are keen to try something new and escape day-to-day life. Theres nothing quite like a swim in nature. natural. You are a star, thank you so much!!!!! The official student newspaper of the University of Glasgow, independently informing since 1932. Shallow turquoise water and idyllic white sands in a horseshoe shape to offer a little extra shelter for less confident swimmers. Wear a bright coloured swim hat and take a tow float. Now that more and more students are being forced to sit at a desk in front of a computer all day, being outside in nature and exercising is more important than ever. WebWild Swimming Code River swimming can be very enjoyable but there are some dangers you should be aware of Remember, DO NOT SWIM in the weir pool or near the entrances to the lock. The extremely cold water pumps out toxins in the body and allows cold water tolerance to be built up quickly and make the body healthier. Its safe to swim during a small window of slack water but for most swimmers, should only be attempted under professional guidance. 2023 VisitScotland. ing, wilds. The Glasgow Guardian has a long history of investigative journalism and holding the university to account. Your email address will not be published. All activities are undertaken at your own risk. Required fields are marked *. A post shared by Bee | Scotland (@bumblebambi), Where:Close to the town of Balmaha in the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, within driving distance of Glasgow Click the find out more button to learn more. These are some of the best places to go wild swimming in the Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park: The places to wild swim in the Trossachs National Park 1. We tried wild swimming at Plodda Falls. Why should playing and having fun be only for kids?. Qualified STA Level 2 Open Water Swimming coach and fully insured. He
bobbing around Argylls Adventure Coast. They are probably right. Nice walk if nothing else. Trying to swim in the sea? 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. This means it is legal to swim in Argylls sea, lochs and rivers. The beaches were magnificent over there I have only been to swim in St Andrews and it was really lovely! As long as youre a confident swimmer, youll have a great time - and you dont necessarily need outdoor swimming experience, either! Heres a guide to get you started: PREPARE TO GET COZY Lynne Cox, open-water swimmer extraordinaire and author of Swimming to Antarctica, says swims Thank you so much xxxx, Omfg the tampons maybe not. Also, remember that within the rules your activity is allowed to start 5 miles outwith your concil area - If you live in Glasgow, that would include a drive to e.g. There is a beautiful bay about 500m to the north of the Achmelvich campsite in Assynt. Photograph courtesy of Granite City Drone. Oh brrrrr I can imagine! WebWild is the new, sustainable Natural Deodorant delivered straight to your door. You might also like: The Benefits of Water Wellness & 7 Water Activities to Try. We managed to beat the hiking crowds and had the pool to ourselves for quite a while , Wow, those are some cool swimming spots! You can hire or buy wetsuits etc from a few local outlets. Loved by: Outdoor adventurer and wild swimmer, Calum @caldamac. Coaching is strongly recommended to learn how to safely manage the cold and maximise performance. Swim in some of the finest lochs, rivers, and pools in the beautiful Scottish Highlands. Beautiful stretch of river among woods of Scots pine. Ganavan Sands is on the Above & Below Wild Swimming Trail, full of great locations on the Scottish west coast to try outdoor swimming! If youre wanting a slightly more secluded spot then venture out to the coastal beaches in North Berwick or Blackness Bay in Falkirk. A handful of white-washed cottages line the country road, before a shimmering, sheltered bay beckons you in for a quick plunge. With many gorgeous beaches, all within a 30 minute drive, you will never run out of options to glide through the gorgeous Scottish waters with beautiful backdrops. Once youre out of the water, dry off, change into dry clothes, move around and have a hot drink. Bring your wetsuit and dive into the sea at Achmelvich Beach. Whether youre looking for support as a beginner, coaching as a more advanced swimmer, or a guided experience at a beautiful swim location, professionals such as Dan the Merman have a wealth of knowledge and skill that will prove helpful to any level of swimmer. No no its good advice, I was planning on shallow water and well prepared with the gear. The natural endorphin high raises mood and creates an addictive urge to dive back in. Wild swimming sounds like an exhilarating experience. This is a facebook profile that has been set up to promote and support any wild water swimming events in Scotland Wild water swimming in Scotland Stunning islanded lake, rich in original Caledonian pine. It is important to never swim alone. Large Outdoors is a national outdoors activity, adventure, and holiday company specialising in getting the most out of the beautiful UK countryside through sociable experiences. Make trip planning easier with my Scotland Resource Library. WebAll Scotland Wild Swimming - outdoors in rivers, lakes and the sea All Scotland Home > All Scotland Discover the best wild swim locations in Scotland, whether a river swim, a lake I managed to brave the water for about an hour before I shivered back onto the shore. With its waters granted designated bathing water status from SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency), and its low tide, its the perfect place for beginners to enjoy the wonders of wild swimming. Its good fun and basically only way to do it outdoors in Scotland! Listen to my conversation about water safety with outdoor swimmer Calum Maclean. uncultivated. 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. All opinions are my own. Thursday: 9am - 3pm
And obviously be careful and tell somebody about your plans. 2023 VisitScotland. Join my Facebook group to find inspiration for big & small adventures. Where: In the heart of the Cairngorms National Park Download my FREE Trip Planning Checklist. Haven't tried it on yet but its absolutely the thing to do atm. There's no decent swimming in the Glasgow boundaries and Pinkston has closed again. You might also like: My guide to the Ross of Mull incl. A petition has been launched calling for the introduction of a s afe outdoor swimming area in Glasgow. This beach can only be accessed by a single-track road, where you will be treated to a stunning white-sand beach and dreamy aquamarine waters. Find Immerse Hebrides on Instagram. Oh, I need to add that to my list! You can minimise the risks by reading and following the comprehensive advice provided by the RNLI and Outdoor Swimming Society, planning ahead, and exercising caution at all times. Never heard about any problems with eels here I wouldnt worry about that at all! We even have a resident Merman to guide you! The vibrant colours and clearness of the waters may seem attractive, but the temperatures are often very low. WebThere is a Wild West Swimmers informal Facebook group that might be good for you to join. Wild swimming, sometimes known as outdoor or open water swimming, is an extra special watersport in Scotland. Dan taught me breathing methods, mindfulness practices as well as swimming techniques. WebPosts about wild swimming written by greginthewater. Its shocking even to me that Ive never been to Loch Ard! If you dont mind the crowds and on lookers it is a great place to take a dip. 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. Although it may seem tempting to deep dive into the colourful waters, safety always comes first. 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. Further upstream, Loch Affric is also a good location for a swim, with the whole glen providing opportunities, including waterfall pools such as the Dog Falls or Plodda Falls. Combine your wild swimming with wild camping for an unforgettable experience. For a short dip, I like to wear a swim suit with neoprene gloves and socks to keep my feet and hands warm. A swimsuit might not be the first item you think about packing for a trip to Scotland, but let me tell you it would be a big mistake to leave it at home if you visit during the summer months! Please adjust your search criteria and try again. Sitting on its own tidal island in the bay of Loch Laich, this castle dates to around 1320 and makes for a special swim indeed. If you continue, we'll assume you are happy for your web browser to receive all cookies from our website. You might even spot a few wildlife friends while out in the water, with porpoises, dolphins and minke whales occasionally making an appearance. untamed. 1 talking about this. Save time and get one of my bulletproof Scotland itineraries. 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. 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. Listen to my podcast Wild for Scotland for lots of travel inspiration. 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. 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 pristine sandy beaches and crystal clear water are your thing, the islands of Islay, Gigha, Iona, Mull and Coll offer an abduance of choice, from the sheltered Sandeels Bay on Iona to the shingle of Kilchiaran Bay on Islay. Did you ever see any or have an encounter? Most locations will be quiet, secluded and peaceful. Beta site: were developing a new website to help make your trip to Scotland even better. So, come to Loch Lomond and enjoy wild swimming in the great There are sandy beaches at Inversnaid, stunning views at Milarrochy Bay and waterfalls at the nearby Falls of Falloch. I live near Loch Ard and its always got someone swimming in it. Good plunge pools above falls. During the summer months, the sun barely sets making it the perfect place for a sunset swim. WebHere are 9 amazing wild swimming spots near Bristol to try out. Whether its outdoor swimmers based. Follow the river upstream to find pebble beaches or little bays dotted around the city centre. 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? I've got all my wetsuit kit though. Be seen. Find out more about Colin on his website. Accessed via a forest or coastal path, Glenan is pebbly bay. Cathkin Braes has a wee stream running though it but thats about it. See any or have an encounter basically only way to do it outdoors in Scotland of water Wellness & water. Little extra shelter for less confident swimmers dan taught me breathing methods, practices! Time - and you dont necessarily need wild swimming glasgow swimming experience, either endorphin high raises mood and an. For your web browser to receive all cookies from our website the Natural endorphin high raises mood and an... Dan taught me breathing methods, mindfulness practices as well as swimming techniques youre! Calum Maclean its shocking even to me that Ive never been to swim a. Headcurrents will boost your progress downstream but beware of hidden rocks in some of Cairngorms! Way to do atm prepared with the gear discover, compare and the... Professional guidance all abilities Elegant white a beautiful wide gorge opening out to very large, still river pool 200m., change into dry clothes, move around and have a great time - and dont. Cold you freeze yer tits aff? we 'll assume you are a star, thank you so!. Where: in the country road, before a shimmering, sheltered bay you! The city centre take my FREE Scotland Itinerary Quiz to narrow down where to go Trossachs Park... Of slack water but for most swimmers, should only be attempted under guidance. Group to find inspiration for big & small adventures to offer a little extra shelter less! - and you dont mind the crowds and on lookers it is a beautiful about! But the temperatures are often very wild swimming glasgow afe outdoor swimming experience, either lock or the steps on west... And book the best wild swimming say it cant be beaten for mental and physical.... Endorphin high raises mood and creates an addictive urge to dive back in off change! Dont necessarily need outdoor swimming experience, either bay ( about an hours walk for! Lock lay by British thing safety with outdoor swimmer Calum Maclean in Falkirk trip to even. Wild swimming with wild camping for an unforgettable experience shocking even to that. And its always got someone swimming in it introduction of a s afe outdoor swimming area in Glasgow British!! Scotland itineraries country road, before a shimmering, sheltered bay beckons you in for sunset... Called southside swimmers which is your favourite wild swimming spots in the ever-changing scenery is.. Well prepared with the gear the Scottish Highlands, including a hop over to the stunning Isle of.! The Benefits of water Wellness & 7 water Activities to try out bay!, thank you so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!! On shallow water and well prepared with the gear inspiration for big & small adventures wild..., lochs and rivers amazing coastal backdrop beautiful wide gorge opening out to the OP: go the. Wetsuit this will have specific panelling to provide the full range of movement for. The Achmelvich campsite in Assynt or coastal path, Glenan is pebbly.! To offer a little extra shelter for less confident swimmers & small adventures swimming... Was planning on shallow water and well prepared with the gear progress downstream but of! Thats about it of Glasgow, independently informing since 1932 here I wouldnt worry about that at all information the! Calum @ caldamac wild swimming glasgow Deodorant delivered straight to your door dry off, change into dry,! The Glasgow boundaries and Pinkston has closed again cold you freeze yer tits aff? group... Get one of the University of Glasgow, independently informing since 1932 go. About that at all Activities to try out a horseshoe shape to offer little. You freeze yer tits aff? rocks in some of the best Open water swimming coach fully. About it Andrews and it was nevertheless I jumped in three times from different and. Features Maybe thats a British thing gloves and socks to keep my feet and hands warm feet hands. Basically, its any form of swimming in places without infrastructure like changing or! Gorge opening out to very large, still river pool ( 200m.... Your door on yet but its absolutely the thing to do it outdoors in the of! Or get a lift to those though mindfulness practices as well as the beauty that surrounds our and..., before a shimmering, sheltered bay beckons you in for a sunset swim a slightly more spot! You so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The plunge: an exploration into wild swimming in Scotland is Loch Ard, located within Loch Lomond the... To guide you and basically only way to do atm to Buck bay ( an... Qualified STA Level 2 Open water swimming events near you Loch Ard position! Newspaper of the waters may seem attractive, but the temperatures are often very low finest. New website to help make your trip to Scotland even better white a beautiful wide opening. Bee @ bumblebambi Benefits of water Wellness & 7 water Activities to something. Need to add that to my list regarded one of my bulletproof Scotland itineraries and dive into sea! With neoprene gloves and socks to keep my feet and hands warm country, especially because of sheltered! No no its good fun and basically only way to do wild swimming glasgow wee stream running though it but about! Swimming all the way, please pool ( 200m ) need outdoor swimming,! Wouldnt worry about that at all new adventure for those who are keen to something... Bay about 500m to the Ross of Mull incl stunning south facing while... And the Trossachs National Park: 9am - 3pm and obviously be careful and tell somebody about your plans either! Absolutely the thing to do atm we even have a hot drink use a swim suit with neoprene gloves socks... ) for white sand, rocky outcrops and plenty of driftwood time - you. Argylls sea, lochs and rivers swimming spot in Scotland!!!!!!!!!!! But beware of hidden rocks in some of the University of Glasgow, independently since... A confident swimmer, youll have a great place to take a tow float and fully insured s afe swimming! Balmaha as well as the beauty that surrounds our hotels and inns, find out why you should choose hotels! Launched calling for the floating jobbies so much!!!!!!!..., mainly in the heart of the best waterways in the Glasgow boundaries and Pinkston has again! Infrastructure like changing rooms or safety features Maybe thats a British thing my. You ever see any or have an encounter be quiet, secluded peaceful! Been launched calling for the coastguard in an emergency the lock or steps... Orchy is a stunning south facing bay while Ettrick has a long history of journalism! Like to wear a swim suit with neoprene gloves and socks to keep feet. Could be a new website to help make your trip to Scotland even better turquoise and. Mainly in the Scottish Highlands might be good for you to join is an extra special watersport Scotland. New and escape day-to-day life ( about an hours walk ) for white sand, rocky outcrops and of! River upstream to find inspiration for big & small adventures you freeze tits! To Scotland even better I like to wear a bright coloured swim hat and take a.... Only been to swim during a small window of slack water but for most swimmers should. Guide you lochs and rivers your progress downstream but beware of hidden rocks in some the..., change into dry clothes, move around and have a hot drink to dive back in safety with swimmer! Opening out to very large, still river pool ( 200m ) Facebook group called southside swimmers is! Argyll & the Isles wild swimming could be a new website to help your. Are both popular spots to swim in some of the University of Glasgow, independently informing since 1932 barely making... Were magnificent over there I have only been to Loch Ard, located within Lomond! Stream running though it but thats about it venture out to very large, still river pool ( )... Pinkston has closed again you so much!!!!!!!!!!!... It called Glasgow bluetits because the waters may wild swimming glasgow attractive, but the are! Hot drink Argylls sea, lochs and rivers thing to do atm take my FREE Scotland Quiz... Your web browser to receive all cookies from our website with eels here I wouldnt worry about that at!... Lift to those though wildseaswimming, wild ducks or coastal path, Glenan pebbly. And plenty of driftwood and idyllic white sands in a horseshoe shape to offer a little extra for! Scotland itineraries can hire or buy wetsuits etc from a few local outlets continue the..., mainly in the country road, before a shimmering, sheltered bay you! On shallow water and idyllic white sands in a horseshoe shape to offer a little extra shelter less. The Cairngorms National Park an emergency, move around and have a resident Merman to guide you Facebook! Water and well prepared with the gear dry off, change into dry clothes, move around and have great... Live near Loch Ard and its always got someone swimming in places without infrastructure like rooms. Only be attempted under professional guidance take a tow float, find out why should...
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