SCOTLAND is set to enjoy its warmest day of the year tomorrow with sunseekers desperate to take full advantage.
While many will take a dip in sea there are also half a dozen outdoor pools – also known as lidos – across the country for people to enjoy.
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And many feature some of the most stunning backdrops the nation has to offer.
GOUROCK POOL, INVERCLYDE
This site has been likened online to the Caribbean by visitors.
The pool offers open air swimming in heated saltwater, as well as spectacular views of the Clyde Estuary.
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The pool views takes in Holy Loch, Loch Long and Gare Loch and the picturesque hills in between.
The pool has been refurbished with modern and contemporary changing facilities, and also has a pool terrace for sunbathing.
It also offers people the chance to swim beneath the night sky as part of its “starlight swims”.
The heated pool and the stars create the “perfect atmosphere” according to Inverclyde Leisure who maintains it.
They say: “There’s no better way to make the most of fresh, crisp summer evenings than with a starlight swim under a clear sky and glistening stars.
“Take a night-time dip in our open air pool and let the warmth of the pool create the perfect atmosphere.”
ST MONANS TIDAL POOL, FIFE
This “wild” pool isn’t completely blocked off to the tides meaning swimmers can share a dip with a crab or even a seal.
Pods of dolphins are also common in the adjacent sea and can sometimes be spotted by those going for a plunge.
After the pandemic a group of locals took it upon themselves to give the pool a tidy up after it had become a dumping ground for dangerous rubbish.
It has since become a hotspot for local swimmers as well as many who come from further afield to enjoy the natural yet enclosed conditions.
STONEHAVEN OPEN AIR POOL, ABERDEENSHIRE
This stunning location is Scotland and UK’s only art deco Olympic-sized seawater lido.
It boasts an array of activities for people of all ages and interests.
Live music, inflatables, aqua Zumba and even a chute are part of the venue’s summertime offering
But for people just wanting a simple swim they can do so earlier in the day.
Stonehaven also offers moonlit swims on Wednesdays between 10pm and midnight.
Following major renovations the Aberdeenshire pool opens a bit later this year on June 10.
NEW CUMNOCK POOL, EAST AYRSHIRE
Just an hour from Glasgow this pool has been described as one of the UK‘s best hidden gems.
The spacious spot is still fresh from a refurb that took place just six years ago.
The Ayrshire pool was redesigned in a lido style, and King Charles hailed the makeover as “decidedly splendid” when he formally opened it.
The pool was also refurbished with modern bright changing facilities and is even heated up to 30C on cold days.
There is a small cafe serving crisps, hot dogs, juice, tea and coffee to hungry swimmers.
All while enjoying the countryside view of rolling hills and green trees.
GATEWAY SWIMMING POOL, JUPITER ARTLAND, EDINBURGH
This unique swimming site is part of an artwork alongside a landscaped garden.
The pool is nine-metres in diameter and is made up of vibrant, hand-painted, Portuguese tiles.
The spiritual spot is available for puplic and private sessions – allowing up to ten guests to enjoy the pool.
Public swimming allows you to book a single £15 slot to swim alongside others.
Artist creator Joana Vasconcelos said: “Gateway is a big splash that invites the public to immerse in a joyful and spirited dimension, leading to a connection with the energy of the Earth.”
THE TRINKIE TIDAL POOL, WICK
The most northerly pool on the list, The Trinkie was formed by the ferocious waters of the North Sea.
It’s repainted every year for visitors wanting a truly unique swimming experience.
The pool takes its name from the Scots for ‘trench’ and has been welcoming swimmers for more than 70 years.
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With its rugged coastline – complete with waves crashing against the cliffs – the sea views are simply breathtaking.
On a clear day, you might even spot some playful seals or the distant outline of Orkney.
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