The world’s wildest swims

Fed up with the scent of eau de chlorine? Skip the swimming pool and opt for one of nature’s hidden gems instead. People have been venturing to forested swimming holes and waterfall pools for thousands of years, and today, wild swimming is seeing a massive surge in popularity as people seek out a deeper connection to the natural world.  

Wherever you go next, it’s likely there’ll be a wild swimming spot waiting for you to discover – whether it be a local lake or a secret plunge pool in the depths of a mountain range. Here’s a few of the best places to go open water swimming around the world. 

1. Durdle Door, Dorset, England

Chances are, you’ve seen photos of this dramatic limestone arch piercing through the surface of the ocean. The unusual natural structure dates back thousands of years and is believed to have been caused when ocean waters crashed through it, leaving a hole for fish – and intrepid swimmers – to swim through. For those looking to get their metres in, there are guided swims ranging from 1-5km that you can book through Jurassic Coast Swimming . In the summertime, you’ll find people laying down beach towels and sprawling out on its shingle beach before dipping into the cool waters for a swim. You’ll have to walk down a steep flight of stairs to get to the shore, so come prepared with a good pair of shoes. 

2. Gippsland Lakes, Victoria, Australia

Escape the bustle of Melbourne and head to Gippsland Lakes National Park , where you can paddle through enchanting inland pools. Enter from the east and you’ll reach the charming Lakes Entrance , brimming with ice cream shops, cafes and boats. From there, grab your gear and take a dip in Lake Tyers or head to the seas along Marlo and Ninety Mile Beach , a sprawling coastal area where you’re likely to spot surfers braving the waves. Take a wander around the lakes at night and, if you’re lucky, you might even spot sky-blue bioluminescence lighting up the shores. 

3. Mantayupan Waterfalls, Cebu, Philippines

Skip the tourist-packed Kawasan Falls and head straight to Mantayupan, a swimming hole loved by locals. Cebu is filled with picturesque waterfalls, but Mantayupan is home to the tallest. Once you’re there, cross the suspension bridge to find people splashing about in an ethereal blue pool fed by a small waterfall. Wander a little further through the forest to see the big kahuna, roaring into another pool which you can swim in. With a modest canteen and grilling area, Mantayupan hits the sweet spot for a laidback picnic – it’s also worth hiring a life jacket for young children from someone on site, as the waters run deep here. 

4. Lake Wainamu, Auckland, New Zealand

Surrounded by shifting black sand dunes and lush greenery, Lake Wainamu is a freshwater lake tucked away in the valleys of the Waitākere Ranges. Getting here is half the fun, as you’ll have to wade along a shallow stream to reach the lake’s dark shores. It’s not unusual to spot a local zooming down the dunes on a boogie board before throwing themselves into the lake’s waters at the bottom of the hill. Afterwards, wander around the Lake Wainamu Loop Track to better explore its unique landscape, which could be easily mistaken for an extraterrestrial movie scene. 

5. Lisong Hot Springs, Taiwan China

Looking for more of an action-packed adventure? Taiwan is home to many natural hot springs, with Lisong Hot Spring among the best of them. After trekking over valleys and creeks to get there, you’ll definitely be appreciative of the spring’s clear rushing waters and warm temperatures to rest your bones. Surrounded by canyon walls, the minerals in the water cast a jade green spell over parts of the surrounding area, adding to the spot’s beauty. Taitung’s tourism board aren’t too far off when they describe it as a “fairyland”. 

6. Lower Myra Falls, Vancouver, Canada 

Making the trek out to Vancouver Island? Natural waterfalls create tiered pools at Lower Myra Falls, which merge into the emerald waters of Buttle Lake. It’s a stunning spot, lush with greenery, best explored in the warmer summer months, as the waters tend to be glacial cold. Once you’ve had your splash about, explore the surrounding mountains and forests of Strathcona Park on dry land – or even pitch a tent and stay the night, as it’s a popular camping ground.