Three good reasons, it’s an exhilarating experience that combines adventure, natural beauty, and health benefits. With its vast array of lochs, rivers, and rugged coastlines, Scotland offers some of the most stunning and diverse wild swimming spots in the world.
Whether you’re plunging into the crystal-clear waters of Loch Lomond, navigating the bracing waves of the North Sea, or dipping into a secluded river pool in the Highlands, wild swimming in Scotland connects you directly with nature in a way that few other activities can.
Wet suit packed and ready, here’s what I tried…
Listen to my audio introduction above
Why Do I Want to Wild Water Swim?
One of the key reasons I am drawn to wild swimming is the pure thrill of it. There’s a sense of liberation that comes from diving into a body of water that’s completely natural, untouched by chlorinated pools or the confines of a gym.
In Scotland, the stunning landscapes that surround many wild swimming spots – towering mountains, ancient forests, beautiful Loch’s and dramatic coastlines – add to the sense of awe and adventure. Having watched a group regularly swim in Loch Lomond on previous visits, that’s where I was headed first.
But not before I had to get my wetsuit on of course! Hmm….
Last time I swam, was in Lanzarote, in the winter, December and early January. It was cold but I didn’t need a wet suit to swim for 20/25 mins or so, though primarily that’s what I had bought it for. So, I hadn’t had much practice of getting into, or out of my wet suite since I bought it. And would it keep me warm?
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The unpredictability of the weather and the cool water temperatures is what keeps wild water swimmers on their toes, making every swim unique. The simple act of immersing myself in such pristine environments, surrounded by such natural beauty, offers a profound sense of peace and clarity – well, that’s what I had read!
Wild water swimming is not just fun; it’s also incredibly beneficial for your health. Immersion in cold water has been shown to boost circulation, reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system. The cold triggers a rush of endorphins, which can elevate your mood and reduce stress. Many wild swimmers report a sense of euphoria after a swim, feeling more energised and mentally clear for hours or even days afterward. Now, I can’t say that happened here but probably because I wasn’t in long enough – Loch Lomond was really cold that day – but I felt pretty good at just having the nerve to get in!
Regular exposure to cold water helps your body adapt and improve its stress response, so can also enhance your resilience – I need to find a way to do this more regularly!
Isle of Islay, Swimming in the Atlantic Ocean… with Dolphins
Our Scotland tour took in 6 days on the Isle of Islay and two of our sons joined us. Now I know they are both up for a dip in the ocean but I could not have known nor expected such an inspiring swim.
Mid-September, after what has been not the best of weather for Scotlands summer, I didn’t expect the sun to shine like it did. Putting that into perspective, it was only around 18 degrees C at best but felt like summer to us. Having returned to our hotel, Another Place The Machrie, after a superb whisky tasting at Bunnahabhain Distillery, as the sun went down we headed to the seven-miles of stunning sandy beach – just a 5 minute walk across the golf course, ready for a dip.
It was such a beautiful evening. It can be pretty rough on this coast, so you have to be careful – don’t swim alone, don’t go out too far because of the currents here but a quick dip was just perfect; bracing and refreshing at the same time. Dolphins joined us as played in the waves. When nature turns up it makes the most special memories.
Being in nature, away from the distractions of daily life, encourages mindfulness and relaxation. Many people find wild swimming to be a form of active meditation, where the focus shifts to breathing, body movement, and the sensory experience of the water. In Scotland, where natural beauty is abundant, this meditative aspect is heightened, making it a therapeutic escape for both the body and mind.
Wild swimming also fosters a sense of community. Across Scotland, there are groups and clubs that come together to swim in the country’s lakes, rivers, and seas. These gatherings not only provide a safe way to experience wild swimming but also create bonds between like-minded individuals who share a passion for nature and well-being. Whether swimming solo or in a group, the shared experience of embracing Scotland’s wild waters creates lasting memories and connections.
Next time, I am going to take a Wild Water Swimming course at Another Place, The Lake. We broke our journey there on the way to Scotland and chatted to a group of ladies doing just that! I am in next time.
Note: Don’t ever swim by yourself. If you heading to a loch, make sure you know if there are weirs, if its tidal and if its prone to rip currents. Do you know what to do if you get caught in a rip current? Make sure you are safe and have fun.