Wild Swimming
16
miles from The Highland Club
"First things first, we do not recommend you go wild swimming in Loch Ness. Apart from the small matter of Nessie lurking deep beneath the surface, the water is bitterly cold all year round – only around 5°C. In these low temperatures, you will quickly get hypothermia. So, in other words, wild swimming in Loch Ness is very dangerous!" (Visit Inverness Loch Ness)
There is something truly special about wild swimming and maybe something extra special about wild swimming in the Scottish Highlands. The water quality is often exceptional, but temperatures are very low so be prepared! With plenty of rivers, lochs, waterfalls, and pools to cool down in, you will be spoilt for choice, here is a selection to get you started…
How about venturing out to a well-preserved castle on a tiny island, rarely visited? Then the lair of the Wolf of Badenoch in the middle of Lochindorb will be the reward for those making this journey!
The Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye are quite possibly the most photogenic swimming spots in the country. The water is crystal clear in this group of pools, and some are deep enough to dive into safely with an underwater arch, found in one higher up the glen, through which you can swim.
The Witch’s Cauldron in Clunes is the enchanting name given to a pool which sits below a series of three stunning falls. Why not take a picnic to enjoy after your diving session, this is the perfect spot to linger a little longer!
Sandy beach? Check! Car parking? Check! Wetsuit hire? Check! And a café for a nice warm cuppa after?! Check! Loch Morlich has it all! An amazing water sports hub with great facilities, all surrounded by the beautiful views of the Cairngorm Mountains.
And if it is a loch you are after, how about the cooling freshwater of the stunning Loch Beinn a’Mheadhoin east of Glen Affric. Plenty of great spots surround this loch to swim from and picnic at after drying off, including a romantic sandy beach dotted with ancient tree stumps.
For more information please visit
https://www.wildswimming.co.uk/
and
https://www.visitinvernesslochness.com/blog/wild-swimming-in-and-around-inverness-and-loch-ness/
Loch Mhor - 16 miles away
Loch Ceo Glas - 21 miles away
Loch Duntelchaig - 30 miles away