Wild Swimming in Scotland

With over 25,000 freshwater lochs, 125,000 kilometres of rivers and streams, and nearly 18,000 kilometres of coastline, Scotland is a watery wonderland. But it’s not just about the numbers—it’s the variety, accessibility, and sheer beauty of the landscape that make it exceptional. Some of my favourite spots include:

• Loch an Eilein, Cairngorms – With its island castle ruins, spectacular mountain scenery and ancient Caledonian pine forest, this is the quintessential Highland swimming location. I used to swim here during my lunch break!

• West Beach, Berneray – This Outer Hebridean gem has some of the clearest, bluest water I’ve ever swum in. The three-kilometre stretch of white sand and gentle surf can feel more like the Caribbean than Scotland—on a sunny day, at least!

• Easdale Slate Quarries, Argyll – For something completely different, swim in dramatic, flooded slate quarries on this tiny car-free island. Sheltered from the sea, these deep pools are calm, clear, and strikingly beautiful.

• Eas Chia-aig Waterfall, Lochaber – Known locally as the Witches’ Cauldron, this dramatic plunge pool beneath a double waterfall is otherworldly. It’s cold, choppy, and totally magical!

• River Etive, Glen Etive – This iconic Highland glen is home to a series of cascading pools and gentle swooshes. The scenery is cinematic (literally—it featured in Skyfall), and when the river flow is low and calm, it’s perfect for pottering and plunging.

Each spot is different—some gentle and serene, others bold and bracing. But all invite you to immerse yourself, quite literally, in the landscape.

You don’t need to be super fit or fearless to give wild swimming a try. Here’s how to ease in gently:

• Start small: A quick dip or paddle still counts. You can build up over time. There’s no need to swim long distances.

• Go with a friend or join a group: As well as being safer, it’s more fun to share the experience with other people!

• Know where to go: Swim with a guide, use a guidebook (like mine!) or utilise local knowledge. Start somewhere with easy access, shelter from wind, and a gently sloping entry.

• Kit up: A swimsuit can be enough, but neoprene gloves, socks, and a woolly hat help in colder water. Wetsuits are great if you’re nervous about the cold. Wear whatever helps you get into the water! A tow float and bright cap make you more visible in the water to other water users.

• Warm up well: Bring lots of warm layers and a hot drink for afterwards. The best way to warm up is to move around, so once you are dry and warm, go for a walk!