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Wild swimming

4.8/5

Average Customer Score
Based On 1316 Reviews

4.8/5

Average Customer Score
Based On 1316 Reviews

Overview

As more and more people dive into open water swimming, we’ve picked our stand-out locations around our world for taking the plunge. From the abundant opportunities in Finnish Lakeland to the glacially fed lakes of the Canadian Rockies, Sweden’s traditional bathhouses to Norway’s epic fjords. Where might your next wild swim be?

Whether by design or spontaneously, finding a stunning place to swim while out and about exploring the scenic corners of our planet is invigorating and memorable. You don’t need to be a dedicated open water swimmer to appreciate the pleasure and wellbeing effect of swimming in natural bodies of water. Much like riding a bike, jumping into lakes or the ocean connects us with the carefree days of childhood. It’s liberating. Then there’s the health benefits. Your immune system is boosted, muscles are soothed, and your mood is invariably lifted.

The wellbeing benefits are true of swimming in outdoor pools – just ask the Icelanders – but swimming in nature, wilderness swimming, especially in quiet, stunning spots, is an experience that stays with you long after you’ve dried off.

That first morning swim was at sunrise the first place I stayed at. Just diving off the jetty and then swimming along the beam of light from the rising sun was just fantastic. So refreshing and invigorating. The lake was a bit cool, of course it was, but then you have the sauna afterwards to warm up in. There are saunas everywhere you stay in Finnish Lakeland. It's part of Finnish culture. Part of Finnish life.
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Man swimming in the chilling water of a finnish lake surrounded by golden forest, autumn scene, Finland

What is wild swimming?

In essence, wild swimming is no more complicated than swimming outside in open water like lakes, rivers and the ocean. Purists may determine that it means swimming in cold water, but if the heating is natural, the setting is no less wild. Some prefer to shun wet suits wanting to feel the invigorating effect of cold water on their skin, but ultimately that’s personal preference.

Open water swimming is an official sport, recognised by World Aquatics, and has grown massively in popularity in recent years. It’s serious business and at the same time ever so simple appealing to pro athletes, recreational swimmers and hobbyists alike.

There is of course a major safety element to open-water swimming. Conditions are different to swimming in a pool. Don’t swim alone and consider your surroundings before diving in. Pay attention to local advice and be mindful of water temperature.

Wild swimming is good for wellbeing

The benefits of wild swimming extend to both body and mind from fitness and muscle tone to endorphin release. Swimming in cold water is invigorating with direct health benefits like boosting immunity. It also helps to clear your mind and reduce stress. Simply put, swimming in nature is fun!

Why choose wild swimming on holiday?

Wild swimming offers a connection to nature in a pure form and allows you to take in your surroundings from a different perspective. This is immersion both literal and figurative. Finding the time for a dip is also one way to embrace slow travel. It’s not something to be rushed and is a great way to be in the moment and enjoy where you are in, in turn, building those memories that will last forever.

Wild swimming locations

Whether you’re a dedicated open-water swimmer or a casual dipper, we can recommend some fantastic locations for getting wet in the wild. Places with a wow factor, that will stand out in your memory.

From the Nordic countries to Canada and New Zealand, pure wilderness in abundance offers stunning spots for a wild swim.

Explore our top picks of stunning swim spots and let us tailor a journey just for you.

  • finland jetty and lake view istk

    Lake swims and saunas in Finland

    The watery wilderness of Finland’s Lakeland region is perfect for a peaceful swim. Captivating lakeside properties nestled in natural surroundings offers ease to access to the clear, still waters. Start each day of restful road trip with a refreshing morning dip followed by a sauna. Naturally!

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  • Wilderness swimming in Canada

    The famous lakes of the Canadian Rockies are picture-perfect but very cold. Glacial Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are iconic and stunningly beautiful but better suited for a quick foot spa to cool down after a summer hike. For a swim, Lake Edith near Jasper is a more appealing prospect, where you can take in the alpine beauty of the Canadian wilderness and breathe in the crisp air on a summer’s day.

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  • Hot water in Iceland

    Geothermal bathing takes centre stage in Iceland, but the locals tend to prefer outdoor swimming pools for wellbeing. Naturally heated, these are social hotspots… literally. Our pick for nature’s best is Hvammsvik Hot Springs where you can combine relaxing in naturally heated springs with a brisk swim in the Atlantic Ocean.

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  • Fjord Sauna, Aurlandsfjord_

    Floating saunas in Norway

    Soak up the natural beauty of Aurlandsfjord with an invigorating swim and sauna experience. Punctuate sessions in the floating sauna with a dip in the cold water of this deep fjord and truly awaken your senses. This is hot/cold treatment amidst scenic splendour.

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  • Rejuvenating tradition in Sweden

    A throwback to the 1800s, take a dip in the ocean at one of Sweden’s traditional cold bathhouses. An hour south of Gothenburg, Kallbadhuset Varberg offers another hot/cold rejuvenating experience in an architectural gem.

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  • The Polar plunge

    Not exactly ice swimming, but wild nevertheless, braving a polar plunge is both invigorating and a little bonkers! For some it’s a rite of passage when visiting the Polar regions on an expedition voyage. A shared experience with fellow expeditioners, jumping in sub-zero icy waters at latitudes just shy of the poles, is worthy of bragging rights.

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What to take wild swimming

For the swim

  • Swimsuit
  • Swimming shoes or neoprene boots
  • For cold water: wetsuit (optional), neoprene boots and gloves, woolly hat
  • Waterproof phone case (so you can photograph the adventure!)
  • Dry bag for valuables
  • Brightly coloured swim hat/tow float
  • Whistle for attracting attention in an emergency

Post-swim

  • Towel and/or changing robe
  • Warm layers that are easy to get on quickly
  • Thick socks and a spare, dry hat
  • Hot drink and sugary snacks

Trip ideas