Wild swimming in Europe? Make sure you hit these spots

Forget pools for just a second: this summer in Europe, we’re all about bathing in nature. Besides, Europe may be full of cultured cities and charming towns, but it’s also teaming with gorgeous places to take a dip – and in some of them, you can even embrace the oh-so-European practice of swimming in the nude.

Just remember, only swim where you're confident, always obey local warnings and leave no trace.

Golitha Falls, Liskeard, England 

Tucked away onBodmin Moor in Cornwall, Golitha Falls is a tranquil haven known for its moss-covered rocks and cascading waterfalls. On the few days a year that it’s warm enough to swim in England, you can follow the footpaths along the River Fowey, where you'll discover secluded pools and coves in the midst of ancient woodland. Fairies live here for sure.

Verzasca River, Lavertezzo, Switzerland

Dive into the turquoise waters of the Verzasca River in Lavertezzo: a picturesque village in the Swiss Alps. The waters here wind their way through narrow gorges and rocky canyons, creating idyllic swimming spots surrounded by greenery, dramatic mountains and the occasional stone bridge to jump off. At 30km long and prettier than any desktop background we’ve ever seen, the Verzasca River is a ridiculously nice place to cool off.

Soča River, TriglavNational Park, Slovenia
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The Soča River is a delicious ribbon of water that flows through western Slovenia and the north-east of Italy. Keen swimmers should head to the section in Triglav National Park, where stoney pools have been carved out by millennia of glacial activity. Good spots to park up for the day include the white stone beach at the confluence of the Soča and Lepena rivers, near to Koritnica hanging bridge and Sotočje –where the Soča River meets the Tolminka River. In summer, a bunch of music festivals take place here too, so depending on your timing, it could be quite the party.

Ruta del 7 Gorgs, Campdevànol, Spain 

Nestled in the Pyrenees foothills on the outskirts of Campdevànol is a gem known as the Ruta del 7 Gorgs: a series of waterfalls that remain a paradise all year round thanks to their proximity to the mountains. Here, a 10km loop track winds through the forest, and hikers can stop and cool off in the pristine waters whenever they please! Note that to conserve this precious spot, there’s a visitor limit of 500 people per day and a small fee to enter.

Nera River, Cheile Nerei-Beușnița National Park, Romania

Discover the pristine beauty of Romania's Cheile Nerei-Beușnița National Park, home to some of the country's most stunning natural landscapes – among them Ochiul Beiuluior ‘Beg’s Eye’: a striking lake that is the source of many-a legend. Though you can’t swim in that, there are plenty of springs, waterfalls, and pools along the Nera River and its tributaries that are perfect for a peaceful wild dip. The park is also a ripper spot for camping and multi-day walks.

Crno Jezero, Durmitor National Park, Montenegro 

Located within Durmitor National Park, Crno Jezero is the largest of the region’s glacial lakes – known rather poetically as ‘mountain eyes’ (we’re seeing a pattern across cultures here!). Surrounded by fir trees and snow-dusted peaks, this lake is a sublime spot to spend a day between June and September – but even in summer, the waters are pretty chilly, so prepare to feel ultra refreshed. It’s also possible to rent a cute rowboat here for cheap: Montenegro at its best.

📸 Joel Steinmann