Wild Swimming in Argyll & the Isles

The marine environment surrounding Argyll & the Isles is of international significance. As such, it is the UK’s first Hope Spot – a beautiful place, treasured by the local community, that is critical to the health of the ocean.

The Gulf Stream brings warmer waters to our shores and swimming in the sea here can be warmer than swimming in fresh water. Plus the salt water makes you more buoyant!

Use our Above and Below wild swimming trail to explore the magical waters of Cuil Bay, Tralee Bay, SAMs Beach, Port Appin and Ganavan Sands.

Ostel Bay

Tighnabruaich | Cowal Peninsula

The short walk (15 mins) over the dunes is worth it to experience the jewel in the crown of Argyll’s Secret Coast; a sandy beach with views of Arran which remains fairly shallow for a long way out.

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Glenan Bay

Portavadie | Loch Fyne

Accessed via a forest or coastal path, Glenan is pebbly bay. Continue past the river mouth to Buck Bay (about an hour’s walk) for white sand, rocky outcrops and plenty of driftwood.

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Ascog Bay at Stillaig

Portavadie | Loch Fyne

A narrow piece of land separates two shallow and protected bays at Stillaig. Walk over the headland or use the farm track just beyond the entrance to Stillaig Farm to get to Eilean Aoidhe.

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Carry Farm

Tighnabruaich | Cowal Peninsula

Carry Farm is easy to get to and great for a quick dip. The shoreline is pebbly, but it gets nice and sandy as you head further out. Walk though Carry Farm to get to the shoreline and the best bit for swimming is to your left.

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Port Bàn

Kilberry | Knapdale

The unspoilt coastline, sandy beaches and stunning views of Islay and Jura make a wonderful spot for a calming and restorative swim in the sea. Dolphin pods have been spotted here so don’t forget your binoculars and camera!

Calgary Bay, Mull

Shallow turquoise water and idyllic white sands in a horseshoe shape to offer a little extra shelter for less confident swimmers.
Gulf of Corryvreckan, Sarba / Jura

The world’s third largest whirlpool is alluring and dramatic to witness. It’s safe to swim during a small window of slack water but for most swimmers, should only be attempted under professional guidance.
Scalpsie & Ettrick Bays, Bute

Located on the west coast of Bute, Scalpsie, is a stunning south facing bay while Ettrick has a sheltered sandy beach. Both enjoy impressive views towards the island of Arran.

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Isle of Tiree

Boasting the most sunshine hours in Scotland, Tiree is almost ringed with clean golden sands making it a great choice for wild swimming, paddling and picnics.

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Islay, Gigha, Iona, Mull, Coll

If pristine sandy beaches and crystal clear water are your thing, the islands of Islay, Gigha, Iona, Mull and Coll offer an abduance of choice, from the sheltered Sandeels Bay on Iona to the shingle of Kilchiaran Bay on Islay.

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The coastline of Argyll is indented with sea lochs providing wonderful, sheltered – albeit tidal - waters for swimming.

Loch Striven offers crystal clear waters, mountain views and warmer temperatures whilst Loch Long is a fjord type sea loch which, as its’ name would suggest, is 20 miles long!

For freshwater loch swimming, Loch Lomond, in the Trossachs National Park, is hard to beat. It’s Scotland’s largest loch, and home to the Great Scottish Swim at Balloch. There are sandy beaches at Inversnaid, stunning views at Milarrochy Bay and waterfalls at the nearby Falls of Falloch.

River Oude, Oban

For an energising river dip, follow the lively River Oude into the lake formed by the Oude Dam. Headcurrents will boost your progress downstream but beware of hidden rocks in some of the shallow areas.

River Orchy, Nr Dalmally

The Orchy flows down Glen Orchy east of Dalmally. It offers dramatic scenery, a number of waterfalls (best viewed from the land!) and calmer stretches which are suitable for paddling and swimming.