Swim wild!
Get closer to nature with a dip in some of the most scenic waters across Europe
Wild swimming has seen a huge increase in popularity, reports The Outdoor Swimming Society, with some 7.5 million people in the UK venturing into lakes, lagoons and lochs.
Now, the team at Stressfree Carrental.com have researched 10 of the very best destinations across Europe where visitors can enjoy an al fresco dip.
LAKE LUNGERN Obwalden, Switzerland
A natural lake that lies amid mountains in the stunning scenery of the Sarneraa Valley in the Swiss Alps. Take in the breathtaking views.
LLYN IDWAL Eryri, Wales This mountain lake sculpted by glaciation has crystal-clear waters of emerald and blue, and is surrounded by the peaks of Snowdonia.
FAIRY POOLS
Isle of Skye, Scotland Spectacular springwater pools fed by the tumbling waterfalls of the imposing Cuillin Mountains.
LINHOPE SPOUT Northumberland
A 5m-deep wild swimming spot in the isolated Breamish Valley, lying below an 18m waterfall. One for more experienced swimmers.
PULVERMAAR
NATURE POOL Germany One of Germany’s deepest lakes, set in a volcanic crater, Pulvermaar has shimmering, mineral-rich waters amid a most luxurious landscape.
LOUGH OULER
County Wicklow, Ireland
This heart-shaped corrie (mountain lake) puts the ‘wild’ in wild swimming with its dark water and remote location, by Tonelagee Mountain.
LAC D’ANNECY Haute-savoie, France Annecy’s pristine waters are home to a whole host of wildlife, with fish visible to swimmers in the clear water, and dramatic mountain views.
CASCATE CAPELLI DI VENERE Campania, Italy Just a short distance from the fabulous Amalfi coast, this picturesque location is surrounded by beauty, from rocky canyons to cascading waterfalls and gently bubbling streams.
PONTE DE SÃO JOÃO Rio Coura, Portugal
A natural pool in the Coura River, formed by mountain waters. The trek to the pool is a bit of a climb, but if you can tackle it, swimmers will be rewarded with stunning turquoise-blue waters.
FUENTES DEL ALGAR Alicante, Spain
This exquisite oasis is an idyllic natural spot for wild swimmers, with waterfalls, springs and centuries-old irrigation channels.
Swimmers of all abilities who are considering wild swimming should always follow the local advice and precautions. You can find out more by visiting:
outdoorswimming society.com