Wild Swimming in Loch Lubnaig: A Complete Guide
Loch Lubnaig, meaning “crooked loch” in Gaelic, is one of the Trossachs’ most beautiful wild swimming destinations. Nestled between forested hillsides with the A84 running along its eastern shore, this 4-mile long freshwater loch offers stunning scenery and excellent swimming conditions for those seeking a quieter alternative to busier tourist spots.
Quick Facts
| Location: | The Trossachs, Stirling |
| Water Type: | Freshwater |
| Best For: | Scenery, Intermediate swimmers, Quiet swims |
| Parking: | Yes (multiple locations) |
| Facilities: | At The Cabin Cafe, Forsest Holidays campsite nearby, and further passed in Strathyre village |
Best Swimming Spots on Loch Lubnaig
The Cabin at Loch Lubnaig
The Cabin Car Park is a beautiful entrypoint with views across to the forests and Ben Ledi across the loch. Very popular with SUP and kayak users, but also a great spot for swimmers. The water is clear and deepens quickly, so be cautious if you’re not an experienced swimmer. This is one of the main routes out to the highlands, so it can be noisy with the road and very busy - but the scenery is stunning.
Great location for families, with picnic tables and easy access from the car park as well as a small pebbly beach area.
- Access Easy from small parking area
- Good for Peaceful swims, sunset swimming, photography, families seeking quiet spots
- Watch out for Limited parking given the business, midges in summer evenings
Parking & Access
The Cabin Car park
Location:
West shore road, off A84
GPS:
56.277657, -4.283373
Grid Ref:
NN 559 090
Cost:
Paid
Distance:
Right next to the water
Facilities & Amenities
- The Cabin Cafe serving hot food and drinks
- Picnic tables and benches
- Toilets (Free)
- Campsite nearby (The Cabin)
Swim Spot at Street-side Parking
Layby parking area providing access to a quieter swim spot along the eastern shore of Loch Lubnaig.
- Access Access is via a steep path from the layby onto a small pebble beach area. Be careful as the path can be slippery when wet.
- Good for Quiet swims, nature observation, When the Cabin area is busy, this spot is often quieter.
- Watch out for The path can be steep and slippery
Parking & Access
Street-side Parking
Location:
Trossachs, Stirling
GPS:
56.307297, -4.322852
Grid Ref:
TBD
Cost:
Free
Distance:
Direct access to swim spot
Facilities & Amenities
None
Forest Holidays Strathyre
Forest Holidays Strathyre Car Park provides access to a serene swim spot surrounded by woodland. Ideal for those looking for a quieter spot and a nice cafe at the end. Perfect if you also want to stay at the Forest Holidays site.
- Access TBD
- Good for Peaceful swims, forest scenery, swimmers wanting to combine a swim with a cafe visit
- Watch out for It's a bit of a walk from the car park to the loch edge, and parking is primarily for guests and cafe visitors.
Parking & Access
Car Park
Location:
Trossachs, Stirling
GPS:
56.269616, -4.291059
Grid Ref:
TBD
Cost:
Free (for guests and cafe visitors)
Distance:
200-300 meters to swim spot
Facilities & Amenities
Cafe on site, toilets and a fantastic accommodation option if you want to stay overnight with a hot tub!
Loch Lubnaig A84 Car Park
Small car park along the A84 providing direct access to a swim spot on Loch Lubnaig. This spot is often very busy but offers beautiful views across the loch.
- Access Easy access from the alternative car park
- Good for Emergency access only
- Watch out for Very limited parking spaces, very deep water close to shore
Parking & Access
Loch Lubnaig A84 Car Park
Location:
TBD
GPS:
56.267158, -4.285051
Grid Ref:
TBD
Cost:
Paid
Distance:
Direct access to swim spot
Facilities & Amenities
None
Safety Information for Loch Lubnaig
Water Temperature
Summer temperatures range from 11-15°C (52-59°F), dropping to 3-7°C (37-45°F) in winter. The loch can be cooler than expected due to mountain water inflow.
Boat Traffic
Minimal boat traffic - occasionally canoes and kayaks. Generally very safe from watercraft.
Water Quality
Excellent water quality with regular monitoring. The loch is fed by mountain streams and has very clear water.
General Advice
- Never swim alone - this is a quieter location with fewer people around
- Always use a tow float for visibility
- Be aware of cold water shock - acclimatize gradually
- Mobile phone signal is limited or absent in many areas
- Weather can change quickly in the mountains - check forecasts
- Consider a wetsuit for extended swims
- Respect the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
- Wildlife includes otters and ospreys - observe from distance
Gallery
Pebble beach area near The Cabin
Mountain views from the eastern shore
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
Loch Lubnaig Wild Swimming FAQ
Is Loch Lubnaig good for beginners?
Loch Lubnaig is ideal for beginners, especially around The Cabin area where the water is easily accessible and there are gentle entry points. However, always ensure you are comfortable with open water swimming and consider wearing a wetsuit for added buoyancy and warmth.
How does Loch Lubnaig compare to Loch Lomond?
Whilst Loch Lubnaig is by the main road and the car parks are incredibly busy, it is still a smaller and quieter loch than Loch Lomond. The scenery is equally stunning, with forested hillsides and mountain views. Loch Lubnaig offers a more tranquil swimming experience with fewer crowds, making it a great alternative for those seeking peace and quiet.
What's the best time of year to swim?
June through September offers the warmest water temperatures (11-15°C). However, May and October can be beautiful with fewer midges and stunning seasonal colors. Winter swimming is for experienced cold water swimmers only, with temperatures dropping to 3-7°C.
Are there midges at Loch Lubnaig?
Yes, midges can be significant in summer (June-August), particularly at dawn and dusk during calm, humid conditions. The forest spots can be particularly affected. Bring good midge repellent and consider swimming during breezier daytime periods. May and September tend to have fewer midges.
Can I wild camp near Loch Lubnaig?
Yes, however it is part of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park camping permit area and so you will need to get a permit if you plan to camp overnight. The Cabin campsite is a good option with facilities. Head here to get a permit https://www.lochlomond-trossachs.org/things-to-do/camping/get-a-permit/
Is there mobile phone signal?
Mobile phone signal is generally good along the A84 eastern shore, but can be patchy or absent in more remote areas, especially on the western shore. It’s advisable to inform someone of your plans before swimming and carry a fully charged phone in a waterproof case.
Additional Tips for Swimming in Loch Lubnaig
Best Time to Visit
Loch Lubnaig is swimmable year-round for those accustomed to cold water, but the most comfortable conditions are from June through September. Early mornings offer the calmest water, best light for photography, and the highest chance of wildlife sightings. Mid-week visits will be quieter than weekends.
Getting There
Loch Lubnaig is located approximately 14 miles north of Stirling and 50 miles northwest of Edinburgh. The A84 runs along the entire eastern shore, making it very accessible by car. Public transport is limited - the nearest train stations are at Dunblane (20 miles) and Stirling. Callander (5 miles south) is the nearest town with full facilities.
Nearby Attractions
Combine your swim with:
- The Falls of Leny (dramatic waterfall, 2 miles south)
- Balquhidder and Rob Roy’s grave (10 miles north)
- Ben Ledi hill walk (Munro, 879m)
- Callander town (shops, cafes, restaurants)
- Strathyre village (quiet village with excellent cafe)
Respect the Environment
Please follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code:
- Take all litter home (no bins in remote areas)
- Respect wildlife - observe from distance
- Park responsibly - use designated areas
- Leave no trace when wild camping
- Avoid disturbing livestock
- Keep dogs under control
Happy swimming!
Respect the Environment
Please follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code:
- Take all litter home (no bins in remote areas)
- Respect wildlife - observe from distance
- Park responsibly - use designated areas
- Leave no trace when wild camping
- Avoid disturbing livestock
- Keep dogs under control