Guide to wild swimming in Scotland

There is nothing quite like the rush you get when swimming in cold water, especially when surrounded by beautiful and romantic scenery – something Scotland certainly isn’t short of.

Wild swimming has become increasingly popular, perhaps due to the fact that more of us are trying to get out and reconnect with nature, but also due to its benefits; it’s energising and invigorating, it has many health benefits including improved circulation and immunity, and it also increases your endorphin release, thus making you feel great.

There are many wild swimming spots in Scotland, so many in fact that it can be overwhelming to pick a spot. Below are some of the best wild swimming locations in Scotland. For some suggestions of places to stay on your Scottish adventure, click the button below.

Skip to the best wild swimming spots in Scotland:

• The Highlands
• Central Scotland
• West coast of Scotland
• East coast of Scotland
• Southern Scotland
• Map of wild swimming spots

Wild swimming in the Highlands

Imagine plunging into cold, fresh water with heather covered mountains and birdsong surrounding you, and nothing but nature to admire. The Highlands can be the perfect canvas for wild swimming adventures. Please read our guide on how to wild swim safely, especially if you are just dipping your toes in for the first time.

Achmelvich Beach, Assynt 

If you love a tropical-looking beach with glorious white sand and turquoise waters then this spot is for you. Located in Assynt, this is a paradise for those looking for privacy, peace and tranquillity. 

Accessed by a single-track road, Achmelvich Beach is a lovely sandy cove surrounded by a rocky coastline and small sandy dunes. Swim in the clearest of waters, explore rock pools and keep an eye out for sea life including seals, dolphins and red-throated divers. There are stunning walks around the area which are perfect for warming up after a sea swim.

Loch an Eilein, Aviemore

Hidden amongst the beautiful woodland forest of Rothiemurchus in the Cairngorms National Park, this magical loch is perfect for an outdoor swim. The iconic island and its 13^th-century castle ruin hold a wealth of history and secrets and make for a picturesque backdrop whilst you bathe in the clear, cool water. 

Many swim the few hundred metres out to the island and back. To warm up, you can walk the 3-mile loop around the loch while keeping an eye out for red squirrels, crested tits and ospreys.

Wild swimming in Central Scotland

Central Scotland is home to some fantastic wild swimming locations across its network of rivers, lochs and coastlines. There are lots of idyllic locations for some wild swimming adventures. 

Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is visited by thousands of people each year, all looking to experience its outstanding landscapes, magical habitats and diverse wildlife. It is the largest freshwater lake in the UK by surface area and is steeped in history and mystery. The loch is 22.6 miles long, with lots of beaches and little secluded spots where you can swim. 

You can visit the main beaches along the loch or seek out quieter more secluded spots whilst you explore on foot. 

Aberdour Silver Sands, Fife

Fife is a popular area for wild swimming, especially with the locals due to its coastal position and the sheer number of beaches to enjoy. However, we recommend visiting the more secluded Aberdour Silver Sands, a beach framed by woodland on each side. Enjoy views of Inchmickery Island and Inchcolm Island, home to the famous Inchcolm Abbey, as you float and refresh yourself in the clear blue water.

Wild swimming on the west coast of Scotland

The west coast of Scotland is one of the most tremendous, with a stunning coastline that will take your breath away. Simply driving around, the coastal roads will take you to hidden spots and secluded sea pools which will entice you in for a swim. Rugged mountains, heathery moorland and impressive lochs and beaches are waiting to be discovered. Here are some of our favourite wild swimming spots on the west coast of Scotland. 

Ardmair Bay, Ullapool

Ardmair Bay is located within 5 miles of the pretty coastal town of Ullapool and is a glorious stoney beach. Set next to the road, this is an easy beach to access. 

Lined with traditional highland cottages to one side, and mountains cuddling the alcove, this is a special spot with lots of wildlife and character. The sea is as clear as can be, and with its sheltered cove, the water is usually calm – perfect for a long soak.

Loch Maree, Kinlochewe

What makes Loch Maree so special is that it’s home to five large, wooded islands and over 60 smaller ones. The largest of these islands contains a loch which also contains an island. This is the only place in the UK where this occurs. 

The islands are quite far from the shore, so this experience is only for the most competent swimmers. However, there are plenty of little beaches around the 13.4-mile loch where you can take a dip whilst enjoying views of the surrounding mountains.

Wild swimming on the east coast of Scotland

The east coast is host to many great beaches which are fantastic for swimming and water sports. With the North Sea offering up some fantastic waves, it’s a great place to go for surfing too. Here are some good locations to keep in mind for your wild swimming adventures.

Aberdeen Beach

Scotland’s north-east coast city has many large beaches providing locals and visitors alike with coastal havens which can be visited for rest, relaxation, water sports and, of course, wild swimming. 

You have the best of both worlds here: a beach set on the edge of a city, offering up beach fun with all amenities close by. So, if you get chilly after your swim, it is just a short walk to cafes, pubs and a family fun fair.

Rosehearty Beach

Rosehearty Beach belongs to the small and pretty village of Rosehearty in Fraserburgh. When the sun is out, the water can feel tropical in its colour and warmth. 

Spend time lying on the fine white sand before venturing into the sea to paddle, swim and dive until your heart's content. Just behind the beach lie the ruins of Pittulie and Pitsligo castles which make for interesting exploring, as well as the low-profile sand dunes, wildlife and a network of coastal walks.

Wild swimming in Southern Scotland

South Scotland encompasses a picturesque landscape of woodland, moorland, farmland and coastline, and within that are plenty of places to swim in the wild. With rivers including the Cree, Devon, Earn and Carron, there are lots of little hidden pools to find. 

Loch Enoch, Dumfries and Galloway

Loch Enoch is a magical freshwater loch in Galloway Forest Park, surrounded be heathery hills, which boasts several small islands and beaches. This is a remote loch which is accessed by foot; you can either take a six-mile walk from the southern end of Loch Doon, or a five-mile walk from Loch Trool. This is a very private spot with lovely unspoilt views. To warm up after your swim, climb Dungeon Hill to be rewarded with fantastic views. 

Eyemouth Beach

Just a 15-minute drive from Berwick-upon-Tweed, this sandy beach is backed by the town's harbour wall and is a lovely spot for a walk, picnic, ice cream or swim. The children will love exploring its many rock pools where crabs and starfish can be found, and twitchers will love spotting the many seabirds and seals that are regular occupants of the beach and harbour. Sailing, kayaking and other water sports are widely enjoyed here, and swimming is very popular throughout the year with both locals and visitors of all ages.

Wild swimming in Scotland map

Use our interactive map to discover the best places for wild swimming in Scotland. 

Stay at a self-catering cottage in Scotland

Fancy a wild swimming holiday in Scotland? Why not check out our selection of cosy cottages dotted all across the country? Many have wood burners or open fires, cosy beds and hot tubs to warm up in.