Wild Swimming in Loch Lomond: A Complete Guide

Loch Lomond, the jewel of Scotland’s first National Park, offers some of the most stunning wild swimming experiences in the country. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned cold-water swimmer, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your visit to Britain’s largest lake.

Quick Facts

Location: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
Water Type: Freshwater
Best For: Beginners, Scenery, Families
Parking: Yes (multiple locations)
Facilities: Toilets, Cafes (at key spots)
Wild Swimming in Loch Lomond: A Complete Guide

Best Swimming Spots on Loch Lomond

Milarrochy Bay

Milarrochy Bay
Perhaps the most popular swimming spot on Loch Lomond, Milarrochy Bay offers a perfect combination of easy access, stunning views, and excellent swimming conditions. The bay’s gentle beach entry makes it ideal for beginners and families.

GPS Coordinates: 56.0822, -4.5619
Grid Reference: NS 359 908

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  • Access: Easy, short walk from car park (50m)
  • Good for: Paddling, families, sunset swims
  • Watch out for: Can get very busy on sunny summer days

Balmaha

Balmaha
Located on the eastern shore, Balmaha offers beautiful views across to the islands of Loch Lomond. The village setting means excellent post-swim facilities nearby, including cafes and pubs.

GPS Coordinates: 56.0589, -4.5153
Grid Reference: NS 421 909

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  • Access: Easy access from village, multiple entry points
  • Good for: Scenic swims, intermediate swimmers, island views
  • Watch out for: Occasional boat traffic near the pier

Luss

Luss
The picturesque village of Luss provides a stunning backdrop for your swim. The beach here is pebbly but the water deepens gradually, making it suitable for various abilities.

GPS Coordinates: 56.0981, -4.6589
Grid Reference: NS 359 930

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  • Access: Easy access from village car park
  • Good for: Scenic swims, photography, village amenities
  • Watch out for: Pebble beach can be slippery when wet

Rowardennan

On the eastern shore where the West Highland Way passes, Rowardennan offers spectacular views across to Ben Lomond. This is a perfect spot for hikers to cool off after climbing Scotland’s most southerly Munro. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles with easy water access.

GPS Coordinates: 56.1097, -4.6328
Grid Reference: NS 360 985

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  • Access: Easy access from car park, sandy/pebbly beach
  • Good for: Beginners, scenic views of Ben Lomond, hikers on West Highland Way
  • Watch out for: Popular with West Highland Way walkers, can be busy in summer

Firkin Point

A quieter spot on the eastern shore, Firkin Point offers a more secluded swimming experience. Accessed through woodland paths, this location combines beautiful forest walks with refreshing dips in the loch. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful swim away from busier tourist areas.

GPS Coordinates: 56.0533, -4.5697
Grid Reference: NS 378 902

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  • Access: Easy access from car park, woodland path to shoreline
  • Good for: Quiet swims, nature lovers, woodland walks combined with swimming
  • Watch out for: Limited facilities, quieter spot

Inveruglas

On the western shore of Loch Lomond, Inveruglas offers dramatic Highland scenery with views of surrounding mountains. Located near the visitor centre with its tea room and facilities, this spot features a rockier shoreline and deeper water, making it more suitable for confident swimmers. The setting is wild and beautiful, perfect for those seeking an adventurous swim.

GPS Coordinates: 56.2697, -4.7458
Grid Reference: NN 319 096

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  • Access: Easy access from visitor centre, rocky shoreline
  • Good for: Scenic mountain views, more experienced swimmers, dramatic landscape
  • Watch out for: Rocky entry, deeper water, can be windy

Parking and Access for Swimmers

Milarrochy Bay Car Park

Location: Milarrochy Bay, G63 0AL
GPS: 56.0825, -4.5622
Grid Ref: NS 359 908
Cost: £3 all day
Distance to swim spot: 50m to beach
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Balmaha Car Park

Location: Balmaha Village, G63 0JQ
GPS: 56.0590, -4.5150
Grid Ref: NS 421 909
Cost: £2 per hour
Distance to swim spot: 5 minute walk to main beach
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Luss Car Park

Location: Luss Village, G83 8PA
GPS: 56.0983, -4.6595
Grid Ref: NS 359 930
Cost: £3 all day
Distance to swim spot: 2 minute walk to beach
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Rowardennan Car Park

Location: Rowardennan, G63 0AW
GPS: 56.1097, -4.6328
Grid Ref: NS 360 985
Cost: £2 for up to 1 hour, £5 all day
Distance to swim spot: Adjacent to beach, 50m
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Firkin Point Car Park

Location: Firkin Point, Drymen, G63 0DJ
GPS: 56.0533, -4.5697
Grid Ref: NS 378 902
Cost: Free
Distance to swim spot: Short woodland walk, approximately 200m
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Inveruglas Visitor Centre Car Park

Location: Inveruglas, Arrochar, G83 7DP
GPS: 56.2697, -4.7458
Grid Ref: NN 319 096
Cost: Pay and Display parking available
Distance to swim spot: Adjacent to visitor centre, 100m to shore
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Safety Information for Loch Lomond

Water Temperature

Summer temperatures range from 12-16°C (54-61°F), dropping to 4-8°C (39-46°F) in winter. Always acclimatize gradually.

Boat Traffic

Popular areas like Luss and Balmaha can have moderate boat traffic during summer weekends. Stay close to shore and use a tow float for visibility.

Water Quality

Loch Lomond generally has excellent water quality. The loch is monitored regularly by SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency).

General Advice

  • Never swim alone
  • Always use a tow float for visibility
  • Be aware of cold water shock - enter gradually
  • Check weather conditions before swimming
  • Consider wearing a wetsuit, especially outside summer months
Stunning sunset at Milarrochy Bay

Stunning sunset at Milarrochy Bay

View of the islands from Balmaha

View of the islands from Balmaha

The pebbly beach at Luss

The pebbly beach at Luss

What to Pack for Your Swim

Make sure you're properly equipped for a safe and comfortable wild swimming experience:

  • Changing Robe / Dryrobe: Essential for getting warm quickly after your swim
  • Tow Float: Vital safety equipment for visibility in the water
  • Wetsuit or Neoprene Accessories: Helps extend your time in cold water
  • Waterproof Bag: Keep your valuables dry while you swim
  • Thermal Flask: A hot drink after your swim is pure bliss

Facilities & Post-Swim Tips

Milarrochy Bay

• Toilets available in the car park area

• The Oak Tree Inn (10 min drive) offers excellent food and warm fires

Balmaha

• Public toilets in village

• The Balmaha House Hotel serves food and hot drinks

• Village shop for snacks and supplies

Luss

• Public toilets in village

• Multiple cafes and tea rooms

• The Loch Lomond Arms Hotel for hearty post-swim meals

Rowardennan

• Toilets available (9am-5pm, accessible 24 hours)

• Rowardennan Hotel offers food and accommodation

• Rowardennan Lodge Youth Hostel (£66) for budget travelers

• Ben Lomond Holiday Park campground nearby

• Perfect for hikers on the West Highland Way

Firkin Point

• Toilets available (9am-8pm, accessible 24 hours)

• Limited facilities at this quieter location

• Bring your own refreshments

• The Oak Tree Inn (15 min drive) for post-swim warmth

Inveruglas

• Toilets available at visitor centre (8am-8pm, outside block 24 hours)

• Visitor centre tea room and gift shop (opens 10am)

• Stunning mountain views of The Cobbler and surrounding peaks

• More remote location with dramatic Highland scenery

Your Ultimate Lochside Companion

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Loch Lomond Wild Swimming FAQ

Is Loch Lomond good for beginners?

Absolutely! Spots like Milarrochy Bay offer gentle beach entries and relatively calm waters, making them perfect for first-time wild swimmers. Always swim with others and use a tow float.

How cold is the water?

Summer temperatures typically range from 12-16°C (54-61°F). In winter, it can drop to 4-8°C (39-46°F). Many swimmers wear wetsuits, especially outside of July and August.

Are there midges at Loch Lomond?

Yes, midges can be present, particularly in summer (June-August) during calm, humid conditions, especially at dawn and dusk. Bring midge repellent and consider swimming during breezier periods when midges are less active.

Can you camp near Loch Lomond?

Yes, there are several official campsites around Loch Lomond, including sites at Milarrochy Bay and Cashel. Wild camping is restricted in certain areas due to the National Park bylaws - check the park website for current regulations.

Do I need a wetsuit?

It’s not essential, but many swimmers find a wetsuit helpful, especially outside peak summer. It allows you to stay in longer and acclimatize more gradually to cold water swimming.

Additional Tips for Swimming in Loch Lomond

Best Time to Visit

While Loch Lomond is swimmable year-round, the most popular months are June through September when water temperatures are at their warmest. Early mornings offer the calmest conditions and the best chance of having popular spots to yourself.

Getting There

Loch Lomond is easily accessible from Glasgow (approximately 40 minutes drive) and is well-connected by public transport. The West Highland Way also passes along the eastern shore, making it a popular stop for hikers.

Respect the Environment

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is a protected area. Please follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code:

  • Take all litter home
  • Respect wildlife and livestock
  • Park responsibly
  • Use designated swimming areas where possible

Happy swimming!