5 of the best wild swimming spots
Forget rooftop swimming pools – nature provides the most spectacular places for a dip. By OLIVE WAKEFIELD
When the mercury rises and summer reaches its sweltering peak, there’s nothing more revitalizing than a dip in nature’s fresh waters. Some of the world’s most idyllic spots are grassy glens and cool coves circled by clear water, so fresh you can drink it. Chase waterfalls in Scotland or splish-splash under UNESCO sites like the Pont du Gard in Provence – just pack a picnic, prosecco and a blanket for that all-important après-dip.
CENOTE XKEKEN Yucatan, Mexico
There’s something otherworldly about this cave, with dripping stalactites, wild foliage and sunlight spotlighting the turquoise depths. The water is icy, but it’s worth the chill to explore the breathtaking coves.
RIVER STOUR Dorset, England
What could be more quintessentially English than a picnic and a polite dip in the countryside? Live out your Tess of the D’Urbervilles dream in the bucolic West Country where the rivers ribbon around rolling meadows. A midsummer marvel.
GIPPSLAND LAKES Victoria, Australia
These secluded lakes glow electric blue by night thanks to underwater marine life, also known as ‘sea sparkle’. Take a swim after dark to see the crystal-clear waters at their most luminescent.
PONT DU GARD Provence, France
Perfect for a family dip, these fresh French waters flow under the highest Roman aqueduct ever built. This wonderfully preserved UNESCO site draws a crowd, so approach at dusk for a more serene swimming experience.
GLENCOE LOCHAN Highlands, Scotland
Home to some of the most beautiful glens in Scotland, Glencoe Lochan is the ideal place for an introduction to wild swimming, where you can enjoy the river’s deep plunge pools and small waterfalls at the spectacular Glen Etive.
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