Water Safety Week, 18-25 June 2024
Spending time on or in the water is a popular way to stay active, have fun and enjoy Scotland’s scenic locations. As summer approaches the natural beauty of Scotland’s rivers, lochs and golden beaches becomes even more appealing for a range of activities such as canoeing and kayaking, wild swimming and paddleboarding. Scotland has plenty of options to choose from, including the following, some of which are brand new for 2024:
Tweed Valley Canoe Trail - New for 2024
Hot off the press: this 30-mile stretch of the majestic River Tweed is the first official canoe trail in the south of Scotland and is brand new for spring 2024. Starting near the Dawyck Botanic Garden and finishing just beyond Sir Walter Scott’s magnificent Abbotsford, this scenic canoe trail offers tranquillity as well as adventure. Whether taking a stroll along the route and immersing oneself in the history or pursuing a more active pursuit on the water itself, there is something for everyone. There are also plenty of diverse landscapes and wildlife to look out for along the way. For a canoe guide and gear hire, get in touch with Biggar Adventure for all that is needed including guides who know the route very well. Alternatively, Kayak & SUP Hire Scottish Borders offers sit-on-top kayaks for hire that are suitable for all ability levels. Explore trail maps, suggested itineraries, camping info and more for a safe and memorable journey on the Tweed Valley Canoe Trail via www.gotweedvalley.co.uk/tweed-valley-canoe-trail
For those who wonder what lies beneath the seas off Scotland’s coastline, check out Scotland’s network of snorkel trails. Showcasing the diversity of marine life, participants could see everything from small sea squirts, sponges and anemones right up to dolphins, whales and harmless basking sharks. Launched by the Scottish Wildlife Trust, there are snorkel trails in the Moray Firth, Fife, Arran, Berwickshire, East Lothian, Lochaber, North Argyll, North Harris, the North West Highlands and Torridon (with others planned for other locations in Scotland). For more information, and to consult the Snorkel Safety Information, please visit https://scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/things-to-do/snorkel-trails (Snorkel trails are self-guided and having the appropriate equipment will be necessary).
Wild Shore Dundee is a water-based adventure hub, offering a number of unique, dynamic and adrenaline-charged outdoor activities including an Aqua Park, Wakeboarding, Stand Up Paddleboarding, and Ringo. Located at the City Quay in the heart of Dundee, Wild Shore is the perfect day out for families, friends and individuals. Whether giving wakeboarding a try, taking on the challenge of the floating Aqua Park obstacle course or exploring the City Quay on a SUP board, Wild Shore has something for all ages and abilities. Visit www.wildshoredundee.co.uk for more information.
With every water-based activity comes a certain level of risk. It is important that visitors are well-informed before undertaking recreational activities on or in the water, recognise the dangers posed and the precautions that can be taken to safely and responsibly enjoy the amazing locations that Scotland has to offer. The message is simple – always follow the safety guidelines. Be sure to read the Water Safety Code here: https://watersafetyscotland.org.uk/advice-hub/water-safety-code/ as well as VisitScotland’s Guide to Outdoor Safety in Scotland here.
For more water fun ideas in Scotland, check out www.visitscotland.com/things-to-do/outdoor-activities/watersports