Go Swim | Loch Lomond

The approach to Balloch by road reveals the southern basin of Loch Lomond opening up, a vast expanse of freshwater framed by the Trossachs hills. As you arrive at the Lomond Shores retail village, the morning mist often clings to the water near the Duncan Mills Memorial Slipway, the heartbeat of the race day. This southern reach is notably shallower, with depths rarely exceeding 30 metres, which keeps the temperature slightly more manageable than the deep, 190-metre northern trench, though the dimictic nature of the loch means the water column undergoes regular mixing that can surprise the unprepared.

Historical currents and landmarks

Swimming from the slipway, the perspective of the landscape shifts entirely. You are passing through waters where the legacy of the Clan Colquhoun remains etched in the shoreline, particularly near the site of the former seat at Rossdhu House. The southern basin is dotted with islands that act as natural buoys, most notably Inchmurrin, the largest freshwater island in the British Isles, which commands the horizon. Further along the course, the island of Clairinsh presents a peculiar sight; its flat topography, rising to only 13 metres, forms a distinct fish-like silhouette when viewed from the water. It is easy to see how these surroundings inspired literary giants, with Sir Walter Scott famously penning 'The Lady of the Lake' while residing at the historic Ross Priory on the loch's edge.

Race day logistics

The Go Swim event offers distances from 250 metres to 10,000 metres, starting on August 29, 2026. Entry fees range from 23 to 75 EUR, covering the logistical requirements of a managed course with safety teams and chip timing. Wetsuits are mandatory for all standard categories, reflecting the reality of highland water temperatures, though a specific non-wetsuit 'skins' category exists for experienced cold-water swimmers. For those seeking a deeper commitment to the region, the Swim Loch Lomond End-to-End provides a different pacing in June, while the BLDSA Loch Lomond challenge follows just a day earlier, on August 28. Whether you are navigating the short loops of Drumkinnon Bay or tackling the 10km marathon, the Duncryne hill, affectionately known as the 'Kilmaronock Dumpling', serves as a constant, steady reference point on the skyline as you stroke through the loch.