What is so tempting about swimming outdoors in a Scottish sea loch? All over Scotland in the last couple of years wild swimming has become hugely popular as, visitors experience a unique way to enjoy our beautiful surroundings. At Knockderry House we noticed that the number of wild swimmers seen swimming in the loch in front of the hotel increased significantly so we were delighted when we were asked to hold an organised event by Swim Adventure Scotland.
In April 2022, Swim Adventure Scotland visited Knockderry to enjoy a day of wild swimming and outdoor yoga. It was a beautiful morning at Knockderry House as the swimmers assembled to change and make their way out onto the lawn for some relaxing yoga in perfect peaceful surroundings.
Swim Adventure Scotland had organised the event to promote their combined passions for wild swimming and luxurious country house hotels. They designed a luxury ‘wild’ experience for those with a love of cold water swimming and the natural environment for guests to experience wild swimming in a safe environment with recognised qualified coaches, changing areas, good Scottish food, warming fires & friendly Scottish hospitality.
Knockderry House is only an hour from Glasgow but feels a million miles away with its shelterned cove on Loch Long and breath-taking views of the Argyllshire Hills and the Clyde esturary.
What is Wild Swimming?
What is 'Wild Swimming'? For those of us who grew up in the 60's and 70's we will recognise this as what we all did as youngsters during the summer holidays. I remember by own summers swimming in all weathers in Luce Bay down in Dumfries and Galloway. It was a magical experience.
If you, like me, havenot been swimming in the sea since your childhood, you might be wondering why anyone would want to do it, especially when Scotland is known for being a bit wet and cold. So along with Hot Tub Hideaways, we have compiled some of the reasons why you might want to think about giving it ago. Apart for being a bit of a courageous thing to do - It improves your mood, circulation and has health benefits. So how do you start? One way is to join a group like Swim Adventure Scotland.
How to Begin
Wild swimming - or swimming in nature, does not need much to start but it certainly would help if you could already swim. You can read a more indepth piece here on how to get started and what to consider.
To prepare, you might want to consider a wet suit depending on just how cold the water might be. Here at the hotel we have the gulf stream effect which definatly warms the water a bit but it will still feel chilly. And you need to think about how long you intend to swim. You can also get thermal swim gloves and socks for where the wetsuit stops. And finally a good bobble hat is a great idea for winter days.
So bring your towel, some warm changing clothes and step out from the hotel, onto our beach and take the plunge.