It might seem a bit cold to make a splash outdoors in the UK at the moment but, trust us, once you’re in it’s the best feeling in the world. There are loads of fab official and unofficial lidos around the world – with the UK racking up a fair few – in which to feel the unique invigoration which comes only with wild swimming.
Check out our top five as a starter for ten…
1) De Ster – St Niklaas, Belgium
De Ster is a great spot for lake swimming where the water is crystal clear and you can see fish swimming either below or alongside you. There is a 400m-wide dedicated swimming area, which reaches depths of two metres, and the great news is that it’s family friendly. Perhaps even better, though – you’re allowed to wear a wetsuit! It might be wild but there’s still an entry fee of five euros, for which you get a lifeguard station and regular water testing.
2) Nordstrand – Germany
Not far from the centre of Erfurt is this little recreation area which boasts a beach and small wild swimming area perfect for families. It’s beautifully picturesque and there are lots of water sports on offer nearby including water skiing plus beach or court-based volleyball.
3) The Forty Foot – Dublin Bay, Ireland
This former gentlemen’s swimming area has been in use as a wild leisure hotspot for the past 250 years. Once a popular haunt of nudists, this almost eerie coastal spot can be found at the tip of Dublin Bay at Sandycove where intrepid sea swimmers return time and again to jump and dive off its ragged cliffs. It’s a great place without a shadow of a doubt but carries some serious safety warnings so it’s best to tread with caution.
4) The River Ribble – Stainforth Force, near Giggleswick
The River Ribble is a really popular wild river swimming spot and is festooned with pools, jumps and waterfalls. Wild swimming in this river is just as much fun as its name suggests. It’s only for strong swimmers, however, and while smooth downstream swimming can be achieved, it’s advisable not to after heavy rain.
5) Lac de Guerledan – Guernsey
Imagine swimming serenely – and safely – in one of the largest and most beautiful lakes you’ll have clapped eyes on. Sounds great, doesn’t it? Well, the good news is that there is such a place and experience… at Lac de Guerledan. The effect from wild swimming here is on par with yoga and is a great place to contemplate and rejuvenate.
Resources
If you’re intrepid enough for wild swimming in the UK, check out www.wildswimming.co.uk for lots of great, unknown locations. You can also visit www.outdoorswimmingsociety.com and www.wildswim.com which covers further afield into the likes of Guernsey, Jersey, Belgium and the Netherlands.
