Whether you are a seasoned swimmer or a curious beginner, wild swimming in the highlands offers an experience like no other.
The Highlands is renowned for its dramatic scenery, with towering mountains, deep glens, and lochs around every corner. Wild swimming here is not just about the swim itself - it’s about immersing yourself in nature, being invigorated by the cold water against your skin and connecting with the environment around you. The sense of freedom that comes from swimming in a peaceful glen or a secret loch in the woods is hard to find elsewhere, but in the Highlands you are surrounded by countless beautiful spots to choose from.
Freshwater Swimming Spots
Loch Duntelchaig
Loch Duntelchaig is one of the best wild swimming spots in the Inverness area. The loch has crystal clear waters which makes it perfect for snorkelling, and the lush forestry makes it a peaceful haven away from the crowds of the city. This spot is easy to get to and is set back from the road, but be sure to take some swimming shoes — it’s a rocky entrance into the water.
Loch an Eilein
Cairngorms National Park offers plenty of swimming spots, one of which is Loch an Eilein in Rothiemurchus Forest. This loch has an island which houses the ruins of a 14th-century castle, and it is surrounded by thick forestry and hills. Loch an Eilein is a short walk from the car park and offers various trails that you can explore at your own leisure. Keep an eye out for red squirrels and osprey!
An Lochan Uaine
Nestled in the Glenmore Forest Park in the Cairngorms, An Lochan Uaine offers a magical swimming experience. This lochan is often referred to as the ‘Green Loch’ due to its vibrant green hue, which is said to come from fairies washing their clothes in its water. It takes around 30 to 45 minutes to walk to the loch from the Glenmore Visitor Centre, and it’s a beautiful spot for a swim. Visit earlier in the day or later in the evening for a quieter swim, or take a picnic and spend the whole day relaxing by the water.
Loch Oich
Part of the Great Glen, Loch Oich offers an excellent swimming experience and easy access to the water if you wish to have a paddle. Though close to the road, this loch is a peaceful place to swim and offers incredible views of the glen.
Glen Etive
Glen Etive, known for its stunning landscape and being featured in Skyfall, offers several great spots for wild swimming. The rivers and lochs in this area offer a range of waterfalls and pools to explore, and with a backdrop of mountains, flowers and trees, you could easily spend all day here. The River Etive is regarded as one of the most challenging white water kayaking routes in Scotland, so be sure to be well prepared if you do plan to kayak here.
Swimming in the Sea
Achmelvich Bay
Located in the northwest Highlands, Achmelvich Bay is a beautiful white sandy beach with turquoise waters. It’s an idyllic spot for sea swimming, offering stunning coastal views and easy access to lots of different walks. There is a caravan and camping spot nearby, but as it’s a very popular location, you will need to book well ahead of time.
Sanna Bay
Also in the northwest, Sanna Bay on the Ardnamurchan Peninsula boasts white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. This remote and unspoiled beach is perfect for a chilly but refreshing swim in the sea, and it even offers views of the Small Isles. The drive here is breathtaking, and you are likely to spot a host of wildlife including dolphins, whales and sea eagles.
Seilebost
Located on the Isle of Harris, Seilebost is famous for its white sands and turquoise waters. This beach is part of a stunning stretch of coastline that offers an idyllic setting for wild swimming, with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and Luskentyre Bay.
The shallow, clear water makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely swim, giving you the chance to enjoy the quiet beauty of the Outer Hebrides.
Rosemarkie Beach
Rosemarkie Beach on the Black Isle is known for its long stretch of sand and is backed by woodland. With its pinky sand and views of the Moray Firth, this is an excellent spot to swim or take the dog for a ealk, as it’s a dog-friendly beach. You are also extremely likely to spot dolphins in this area, especially if you go along to Chanonry Point, and there are plenty of cafes in the area if you want to have lunch with a view.
Sandwood Bay
Sandwood Bay is often referred to as the most beautiful beach in Britain. It is located in the very northwest of Scotland and it offers wide open views of the ocean. With its golden sands and striking sea stacks, this beach is an extraordinary spot for wild swimming, and its remote location means you may end up having the entire beach to yourself!
Safety Tips for Wild Swimming
Whilst wild swimming is a fun and exciting activity, it’s essential to prioritise safety at all times.
- Know your limits: Wild swimming can be challenging, especially in cold waters. Be aware of your swimming ability and stamina.
- Check the weather: Weather conditions in the Highlands can change quickly. Swim in calm weather and avoid strong currents.
- Swim with a friend: It’s safer and more enjoyable to swim with someone else. If you’re alone, make sure someone knows where you are and when you expect to return.
- Acclimatise slowly: The waters in the Highlands are often very cold. Enter the water gradually to allow your body to adjust to the temperature, and always be aware of signs of hypothermia.
Wild swimming is a fun way of getting some fresh air and exercise whilst enjoying the nature around you. Cold water plunging can help to boost mental clarity, improve mood and reduce stress, as it brings you into the moment and makes you engage with your surroundings. Whether you want to get your heart pumping with an intense swim or simply enjoy the feeling of the water on your skin, go wild swimming in the Highlands this summer and enjoy the beauty of the landscape around you.