This weekend I did something I never thought I’d have the nerve to try—wild swimming in water that hovered around 9 degrees. And not just once, but twice. I joined Alice from Swim Wild and half a dozen other women at Loch Insh for a weekend of cold water dips and creative writing workshops, and I’m still buzzing from the experience.
I’ll be honest: the first swim nearly broke me. We started at the Loch Insh Watersports Centre, and as soon as I stepped in, the cold hit my feet like a migraine. That’s not poetic exaggeration—one of the women in our group described it exactly like that, and it was spot on. It felt like my toes were being crushed slowly in a vise. But Alice and the group I was with? Incredible. Supportive. Their confidence and encouragement kept me moving forward, even when my body screamed retreat.
Eventually, the pain eased. My body adjusted. I went in all the way to my neck, shivering like mad, but I stayed. And when I climbed out, the air felt warm against my skin. I was proud—still am. The first plunge was a battle, and I won it.
The second swim, at a spot locally called Pirate’s Bay, was a much smoother experience. Our guide Alice lent me a pair of thick neoprene socks, and they were a game-changer. My feet didn’t even flinch. I’ll definitely be investing in a pair if I go again. Swimming with them felt a bit odd once the water got inside, but I didn’t care—I was in, and it was peaceful. Still. Quiet. The kind of quiet that settles in your bones and makes you feel like the world’s paused just for you.
Between swims, we had two creative writing workshops focused on the senses. After sinking my feet into the squelchy mud at Pirate’s Bay, I had plenty to draw on. The sessions sparked brilliant conversations—how each of our writing experiences shaped the way we approached the exercises, what sensory detail meant to us individually, and how memory and emotion colour the way we describe the world. It was a one-off class, but I truly hope it happens again. The variety of perspectives made the workshops feel rich and layered, and gave me new ways to think about how I approach sensory writing in my own work.
The location itself was stunning. Loch Insh is the kind of place that makes you want to write poetry even if you’re not a poet. Mist on the water, trees in full autumn blush, and that crisp Highland air that makes you feel alive. Combining wild swimming with creative writing was magic. I’ll be keeping an eye out for more experiences like this—something that pushes me out of my comfort zone while feeding the creative fire.
If you’ve ever thought about trying cold water swimming, do it. But do it with a group like this—people who’ll cheer you on when your feet feel like they’re being stabbed by icicles, and who’ll celebrate with you when you make it through. I came away with frozen toes, a full heart, and a notebook brimming with ideas.
Want to explore it yourself?
If you’re curious about wild swimming or combining creative practice with outdoor adventure, here are the brilliant women who made this weekend unforgettable:
- Swim Wild with Alice–Find out more about her Year-Round Outdoor Swimming Adventures, Retreats, Events and Coaching here: www.swimwilduk.com | @swimwild_uk
- Emma, author of Breaking Waves–Her book explores people’s experiences with open water, and her sensory-focused workshop brought that depth to life: www.emmasimpsonauthor.com | @emmasimpsonauthor
