Stunning wild swimming locations in Scotland

Where: Close to the town of Balmaha in the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, within driving distance of Glasgow

Loved by: Adventure travel blogger, Lesley @lesleywanders via Instagram. Read Lesley’s blog on Best Places to Wild Swim: Trossachs

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. 

In August, join fellow open water swimmers at Loch Lomond for the Go Swim Loch Lomond. With distances ranging from 250 metres all the way through to 10,000 metres, there's something to challenge swimmers of all abilities, whether you're new to open water swimming or a seasoned pro.

Where: On the outskirts of Edinburgh

Loved by: The Wild Ones wild swimming group. View the Wild Ones on Facebook

Portobello Beach has been a favourite amongst visitors and locals throughout the years with its beautiful stretch of sandy beach and promenade. With its waters granted designated bathing water status from SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency), and its low tide, it’s the perfect place for beginners to enjoy the wonders of wild swimming.

This sandy, sheltered bay is a well-kept secret among Scotland's wild swimmers thanks to its pristine waters, convenient facilities and seasonal lifeguards. Its thriving swim community, the Coldingham Brave Bayers ‘Bravers’ Club’, offers year-round dips and support for swimmers all abilities, making Coldingham Bay a safe, welcoming spot to enjoy the clear waters of the Berwickshire coast.

Where: Just north of Oban

Loved by: Shetland blogger and influencer, Bee @bumblebambi. Find Bee on Instagram

Glide through the water in the shadow of the impressive Castle Stalker. 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.

Where: A short drive from Stornoway

Loved by: Wild swimmers and surfers

Fancy a wild swimming adventure in the Hebrides? Head to Tràigh Mhòr and you’ll discover beautiful unspoilt golden-white sand and clear waters with an amazing coastal backdrop. Start your swim at Garry Beach and if the waters aren’t too choppy, embrace your inner explorer as you investigate tunnels, arches, and underwater spectacles. During the summer months, the sun barely sets making it the perfect place for a sunset swim.

Where: An uninhabited island off the coast of Great Bernera on the Isle of Lewis

Loved by: Immerse Hebrides @immersehebrides. Find Immerse Hebrides on Instagram

Nope, this is not the Maldives. It’s the secluded lagoon of Little Bernera – you can reach this beach with a guided swim experience from Immerse Hebrides. They will take you by RIB boat to all the best swimming spots, and they offer swims for more experienced swimmers, as well as beginners and families.

The Outer Hebrides is famous for its clear turquoise blue waters and there are plenty of lovely spots for wild swimming. In the summer, the sea water can even reach an almost tropical 14 °C.

Where: Around 10 miles from Torridon in the north west Highlands

Loved by: Edinburgh influencer, Pippa @pippaperriam. Find Pippa on Instagram

A secret little cove along the north coast of Scotland, this spot is found at the end of the road in the tiny Highland hamlet. A handful of white-washed cottages line the country road, before a shimmering, sheltered bay beckons you in for a quick plunge. Follow your dip with a meal at the amazing restaurant owned by a local couple, the Gille Brighde.

Where: Scotland’s longest river that flows through the city of Perth and on towards Dundee

Loved by: Outdoor adventurer and wild swimmer, Calum @caldamac. Find Calum on Instagram

Follow the river upstream to find pebble beaches or little bays dotted around the city centre. To the west, Loch Tay is another lovely swimming spot. Don’t forget to visit Aberfeldy Distillery for a tour and taste unique Tayside whiskies, lovingly made from the pure fresh waters you just swam in.

Sections of this river are fast flowing so for the best and safest experience, we recommend joining an organised wild swim on the River Tay with Willowgate Activity Centre, based in Perth.

Where: Gullane is one of East Lothian’s loveliest towns

Loved by: Gullane Bay Swimmers

How about a gorgeous beach swim next? Gullane features a narrow, sandy shoreline with great views of the Firth of Forth. You might want to choose a quieter time of day for your swim, as the beach is a popular spot for windsurfers and kite surfers when the wind blows. Warm up inside Tom Kitchin’s cosy gastropub, The Bonnie Badger and enjoy a hearty post-swim pub lunch or dinner.

Explore swimming locations in the Inner Hebrides with a local guide which will take you to spectacular, hidden swim spots. Enjoy retreats for all abilities as well as bespoke trips for groups.

You can try 3 or 5 night cold water dipping and guided wild swim retreats year round in the seas, lochs and fairy pools of Mull and Iona.