Fairy Pools
Once lockdown is over, weather permitting of course, why not try out something different for a summer’s day with some wild swimming (or swimming as we used to know it). Fittingly, the Fairy Pools of Glen Brittle are one of Scotland’s most enchanting wild swimming spots. These crystal clear pools lie at the foot of the Black Cuillin mountain range and following the burn towards the mountain range you can explore turquoise pools, small waterfalls and even an underwater stone arch. The pools are located just south east of Carbost and can be reached by taking the turn marked Glenbrittle on the B80009.
Fairy Pools, Glen Brittle (400m East of) IV47 8ST
Coire Ardair
The pools of Coire Ardair are set amongst the beautiful backdrop of the towering cliffs of Creage Meagaidh making one of the most impressive wild swimming spots in Scotland. The water in the pools is the result of icy snowmelt as well as water flowing from the plateau above. As a result, it’s a chilly swim, even in the sunshine, but it's definitely worth bracing the cold. The pools can be reached by a short walk, along well constructed paths, from the car park at Creag Meagaidth.
Creag Meagdaith, Aberader, (4 miles south west of PH20 1BX)
Loch Beinn a’Mheadhoin
Swim in this stunning freshwater loch east of Loch Affric, with promontories and islands to swim out to (with boat support). On the shore, there’s plenty of camping spots along with plenty of places to enter the water, including a sandy beach dotted with ancient tree stumps (which can make great seats in between swims or to dry off on). The water is surrounded by ancient Caledonian pines and can be reached by taking the road signed Glen Affric from the A381 where there’s a large layby about a quarter of the way up the loch.
Loch Beinn a’Mheadhoin, Glen Affric, IV4 7NB
Achmelvich
About 500 metres north of the Achmelvich campsite in Assynt are the sandy beach and beautiful waters of Achmelvich and it is one of the most exciting beaches in the north of the country. What makes Achmelvich different are the multiple small beaches with crystal clear waters and pure white sand, more like something you would find in our sunnier European counterparts than the north of Scotland. The water is sheltered from the wind by the surrounding cliffs making it the perfect spot for a sunny afternoon of swimming or sunbathing. The beach is just north of Lochinver, turning left after the sign for Achmelvich.
Achmelvich, IV27 4JB
Loch Morlich
Loch Morlich sits in the heart of the Cairngorms and is surrounded by beautiful views as well as outstanding countryside. The spot is popular with other water users including windsurfers and, like with any wild swimming location, it’s important to be careful. However, the popularity of the spot does mean there’s the opportunity to hire wetsuits for the colder days and even warm up in the shoreline cafe post-swim, after lockdown. Accompanied by a beautiful stretch of beach, the views are incredible as you swim out in the loch.
Aviemore, Scotland, PH22 1QY
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