Our guided swim & snorkel retreats are aimed at swimmers who are confident in open water and enjoy exploring! August is a magical time underwater with lots of new growth. We spend a day in Iona where local guide David tells us all about island living past and present, rounding off the day with a swim at one of Iona's stunning beaches where the waters are clear and emerald green. 

• Able to swim 8 lengths of a 25m pool

• Two swims a day (one or both with an underwater explore element)

• While the water temperature is relatively warm at about 15 degrees, we recommend a thin wetsuit as it provides protection against jellyfish and rock scrapes and they can be hired on request.

 🧤 Warm Clothing - Layers to put on after a swim (vest, long sleeved top/thermal, joggers/sweatpants, hoodie/jumper, gloves, woolly socks, woolly hat) 

 ☂️ Waterproofs - Warm waterproof jacket, walking trousers (optional but recommended!), walking boots/sturdy waterproof trainers 

 📋 Other - A more detailed kit guide, travel information and itinerary are provided after booking.

Other activities you can enjoy while you're here include a visit to local craftspeople, boat trips, sauna and wildlife walking tours. 

We start each day with a leisurely breakfast before heading off for our first swim. The first swim of the retreat is an acclimatisation swim so that everyone can find their feet and get used to the temperature and the surroundings. We find everyone feels much more settled and reassured when they have that first swim under their belts!

We head back to the house after each morning and afternoon swim to give folk the opportunity to have a warm shower and a snack.

Swims are always optional and chill out time always available.

We are very happy to take our guests to meet local craftspeople, experience a sauna on the beach, take a boat trip out to Fingal's Cave and enjoy yoga by a crackling fire.

Our itinerary is subject to ever changing, unpredictable Hebridean weather so we always need to move things around in response to that. But we guarantee amazing swims, spectacular beaches and an insight into our marvellous community and island life.