Watersports

The National Park is home to pristine rivers and lochs and many of these spots are popular places for wild swimming, canoeing and stand up paddleboarding. Remember these are shared spaces with wildlife and anglers too, so always be respectful, considerate and give wildlife space.

To do this, we ask that you: 

• Give wildlife space, and don’t paddle or swim directly towards birds and avoid nesting areas such as islands or bays with vegetation. When birds are disturbed, they use up valuable energy reserves and may leave eggs or chicks vulnerable to being eaten.
• Some lochs have zoned conservation areas or seasonal restrictions to protect wildlife, please follow any local signage and guidance from site staff.
• Be friendly to other water users such as anglers and ensure you get their attention and follow their direction as to which way to pass.
• Take care not to damage vegetation or banks when you get in and out of the water and ensure you have parked respectfully and are not blocking any gates or access tracks.
• Stay safe because the water can be cold and weather conditions change quickly here. Go with a friend and always wear a buoyancy aid for water sports.
• Don’t use motorised watercraft including e-foils, e-paddleboard motors, trolling motors etc without permission from the relevant landowner, as these are excluded from access rights.

Water safety code

Water safety code

Water safety code

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This document contains the Water Safety Code from Water Safety Scotland, which advises people to stop and think about the dangers before going near or entering water. This includes being aware of cold water shock, staying off frozen waters, checking safety signs, avoiding alcohol and drugs, considering underwater hazards, being aware of other water activities, ensuring a safe way out, and considering coastal conditions. The code also advises to stay together near water, and if in trouble, to float to stay calm, and then call for help or swim to safety. In an emergency, people should call 999, avoid entering the water to help someone, and instead, look for a throw line or life ring while waiting for emergency services. Finally, when planning a water activity, make sure the provider is fully insured, with skilled staff and the relevant accreditation.

Please be aware that this summary has been generated using AI.