Three Friends, Three Swims & Countless Laughs – Wild Swimming in Scotland

This one had been in the diary for a while. With busy schedules, it can feel almost impossible to carve out a whole day with friends — but we did it. The plan was simple: three swims, plenty of laughs, and a day full of adventure.

Our north star for the day was Loch Morlich. One of my pals had never swum there, so that set the tone for our road trip. We met at our usual spot, loaded up the car (honestly, we take the same amount of kit for a day as we do for three), and set off.

Cue Edinburgh bypass traffic. Nothing like being stuck in a jam when all you want to do is dook! Luckily, the banter was flowing, laughter bubbled up easily, and before long we were over the Queensferry Crossing (Wendy’s favourite), phones out snapping the view. Obligatory pit stop for a pee, leg stretch and, of course, one coffee dash later — we were off again.

Swim One: The Loch and the Castle

Turning off the main road felt like travelling through time. The hills rolled out in front of us, heather in full purple bloom like a velvet shawl. We passed areas scarred by the bush fire earlier in the year. The blackened ground told its story, but green shoots were already breaking through. Beautiful, yes — but we couldn’t help lamenting the wildlife lost in those flames.

And then, our first loch appeared. Nestled in a valley, it shimmered in the light. Choppy, yes, but too inviting to resist. Jane and I picked our way across the rocks and slipped in — warmer than expected. With a castle ahead, there was only one question: “How far should we go?” Answer: all the way, of course.

The water was alive with energy, the peace of the surroundings wrapping around us. But on our way back, our joy was tempered by an activity unfolding which left us puzzled. A young boy, maybe ten, had clambered into a blow-up dinghy, encouraged by adults — no life jacket, no safety kit — we’re not sure on the conversation which unfolded between them but he headed off alone across those same choppy waters towards the castle where he traversed the island and went out of view. His pal followed, and soon one was spotted clambering up the ancient castle walls standing on the top like thinking he was ‘cool’. My heart was in my mouth for so many reasons. Sometimes you really do despair at people’s sense — or lack of it.

Back on shore, balance was restored by Jane’s gooey date-chocolate-peanut butter treats (healthy, right?). Wendy had also made me overnight oats. Winner winner.

Swim Two: Loch Morlich

We carried on, stopping often to try to capture the beauty around us — but of course no photo ever does it justice. Then finally, Morlich. A sandy beach, the Cairngorms rising behind it like guardians. It’s a stunning sight every time.

The main beach and café were buzzing, so we skirted around the edge to a quieter spot tucked under the trees. The plan was just to swim halfway to the blue buoy, but when you’re out there it’s too good to stop. So we went all the way.

That was Jane’s Morlich cherry popped. Her husband had ticked it off years ago as a scout — and now she had her own story to tell (not as a scout, I should add!). Back on dry land, we claimed a bench, steaming drinks in hand, and tucked into more gooey delights before pulling ourselves away for swim three.

Swim Three: The River

Our final stop was a river dip beneath a stunningly beautiful historic bridge. The water danced over the falls, autumn leaves swirled beneath the surface, bubbles sparkled in the current. It was pure magic.

Dragging ourselves out of that river, tired but glowing, we all knew this was one of those days that stays with you. The swims were incredible, yes, but it was the adventure, the scenery, the shared snacks, and — did I mention? — the laughs that made it unforgettable.