Aberdour Silver Sands is the place to wild swim this July

Wild swimmers have been making the most of the recent spell of good weather, with many heading to the West Fife beach, a top pick for those seeking a refreshing dip.

Members of the popular Wild Swimming Scotland Group have ranked Silver Sands as one of the best spots for its cleanliness, calm waters, and peaceful surroundings.

Silver Sands is a fan favourite for wild swimming! (Image: Susan Gardener)Local wild swimmer Mhairi Mair said: “Silver Sands is local to me, the beach and water are clean, and I love the sunrise.

"I only started wild swimming in March and I’m really enjoying it. You get to meet like-minded people and create friendships and great memories.”

The rise in popularity of wild swimming in recent years has been linked to its many health benefits, particularly for mental wellbeing.

A west Fife Facebook page has also been encouraging new swimmers by hosting “Mental Health Dips,” including beginner sessions led by an instructor specialising in cold water immersion.

Fellow wild swimmer Susan Gardner, who began dipping with her sister in January 2024, added: “I can't really explain what I get out of cold water dipping, I just feel good, invigorated afterwards.

“It's great sitting and chatting with the group after too, with a cuppa, we have such a laugh.”

Looking ahead, Aberdour may see an increase in wild swimmers.

Swimmers love the sunsets at Silver Sands (Image: Ashley Park)There are plans to introduce a mobile sauna at Aberdour Silver Sands, following Fife Council’s approval.

However, there may be challenges to the sauna plans, as local councillor Patrick Browne has cautioned that gaining planning permission doesn’t guarantee the sauna will be allowed to operate, as the applicants don’t own the land.

In a planning application, Wild Scottish Sauna said the initiative would aim to complement cold-water swimming with a space to warm up and unwind.