Nothing compares to the thrill of taking the plunge in the great outdoors. Whether you’re a cold water enthusiast or just looking to dip your toe into this invigorating wellness activity, these wild swimming spots in Europe illustrate that the best things in life are free.
So plunge in at the deep end with these free European aquatic adventures.
Baggy Point, England
Best for swimming alongside seals and dolphins
Swim through several secret sea caves at this delightful Devonshire spot, including one hidden tide-swept tunnel. You may even be lucky enough to share your swim with a seal, dolphin, or porpoise, often seen along this coastline.
Upper Letten Riverpool, Switzerland
Best for city swimming
An urban oasis during the summer warmth, this 400m-long swimming area in the flowing River Limmat attracts hundreds of swimmers. The location features a 2m diving board, bars, and beach volleyball courts.
Purcaraccia Canyon, Corsica, France
Best for a nature-made infinity pool
The steep hike to the pools in Corsica’s Purcaraccia Canyon is demanding but worth the adventure. Swim in and slide between various pools fed by crystal-clear mountain water, and unwind in a nature-made infinity pool at the edge of a waterfall.
Lake Bohinj, Slovenia
Best for a chilly mountain dip
The Julian Alps provide exceptional swimming experiences. While Lake Bled lido offers a lovely facility, traveling to Triglav National Park ’s Lake Bohinj reveals wilder and free scenery. The Sava Bohinjka River offers a thrilling challenge for flow-swimming fans.
Lake Walchen, Germany
Best for a turquoise green soak
Bavaria is enriched with brilliant swimming spots, and Lake Walchen, located in the mountains south of Munich, is truly spectacular. The gravel beaches encircle the mineral-rich turquoise waters, and several offshore islands await exploration.
Lac D’Annecy, France
Best for natural hot springs
Heated by subterranean hot springs, this alpine lake near Annecy attracts many visitors. While some beaches charge during the summer, Plage d’Albigny à Annecy and Plage des Marquisats remain free. You can also find wilder spots with exciting cliff jumps.
Lago di Fiastra, Italy
Best for underwater exploration
Camping beneath mountains on the north shore of this stunning beach-lined lake provides the perfect opportunity to dive into its gin-clear waters. Consider taking a snorkel; there’s much to discover, including a rumored submerged village.
Loch Lomond, Scotland
Best for the brave hearts
Swimming in Scotland requires a brave heart, but the picturesque Loch Lomond – Scotland’s largest lake – might just tempt you in. This area hosts the annual Great Scottish Swim and is also rumored to harbor a monster, though without the celebrity status of its Loch Ness counterpart.
This piece has been refreshed to provide you with the most relevant and exciting wild swimming locations across Europe, continuously pushing the boundaries of outdoor adventures.
