Full list of Scotland’s outdoor pools where you can cool off in warmer temperatures
SCOTLAND is soaking up the glorious spring sunshine, and what better way to cool off than with a refreshing dip?
The country is home to half a dozen outdoor pools perfect for a sunny day swim.
And several of them are set against some of the country's most stunning backdrops.
NEW CUMNOCK POOL, EAST AYRSHIRE
Hailed as one of the UK's hidden gems, this recently refurbished lido-style pool is the perfect swimming spot.
It is the country's only outdoor heated freshwater swimming pool, warming up to 30C - so it's also ideal for chillier days.
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New Cumnock Pool is quite literally fit for a king - it gained the royal seal of approval when King Charles, who formally opened it in 2017, branded it "decidedly splendid".
There's also a small cafe on site where you can grab a bite to eat and refuel after a swim sesh.
All while enjoying the picturesque countryside views which surround it.
GOUROCK POOL, INVERCLYDE
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Visitors have likened this heated open-air saltwater pool to the Carribean.
It boasts spectacular views of the Clyde Estuary, the Holy Loch, Loch Long, Gare Loch and rolling hills in between.
Gourock Pool is the oldest heated swimming pool in Scotland.
A recent £1.8m revamp kitted it out with modern and contemporary changing rooms.
And it has a pool terrace perfect for sunbathing.
Gourock Pool also offers punters the chance to swim under the night sky with its "starlight swims".
But sadly, it is temporarily closed over the 'winter season'.
It will reopen from May 6 until September 8 this year.
GIRLS AND BUOYS
GOUROCK Outdoor Pool is featured as the cover star for Blur's ninth studio album
The picture 'Gourock Lido' was taken by photographer Martin Parr in 2004.
The bright blue pool with its white deckchairs and one person swimming is contrasted with the moody grey of the river Clyde with Kilcreggan in the background.
And now Gourock pool, operated by Inverclyde Council, has now been immortalized in rock history.
ST MONAN'S TIDAL POOL, FIFE
This historic pool is situated on the very edge of the sea and offers a great opportunity for a wild swimming experience.
St Monan's Tidal Pool was restored by members of the local community after the pandemic during which it became a dumping ground for dangerous rubbish.
It was also featured on the BBC's "Jules and Greg's Wild Swim", where Balamory star Jules Wilson Nimmo and her Still Game husband Greg Hemphill traverse Scotland in search of the best wild swimming spots.
As per the words of Miss Hoolie herself, it is a "haven for safe outdoor swimming" because it provides swimmers with the best of both worlds: all the beauty and refreshing qualities of the sea without the undercurrents and unpredictable tides that often accompany coastal swimming.
And the seawater is replenished twice a month, which means that it's much warmer than other pools of its kind.
STONEHAVEN OPEN AIR POOL, ABERDEENSHIRE
This is a historic art deco seawater lido, renowned as the UK’s only Olympic-sized facility of its kind.
The pool measures 55 yards long and 20 yards wide and is designed to meet competition standards and attracting local and visiting swimmers alike.
When it first opened in 1934, the pool was entirely emptied and refilled every few days to ensure optimal water quality, and in 1935, heated and filtered seawater was introduced.
The pool also played an important role during World War II, providing recreation to troops before quickly regaining its status as a popular attraction in the post-war years.
Today, Stonehaven Pool hosts a variety of activities, including live music, aqua Zumba, and thrilling inflatables, as well as unique moonlit swims in the summer.
It opens from May 25 to September 1.
THE TRINKIE TIDAL POOL, WICK
The Trinkie is a stunning natural seawater pool located along Scotland's rugged coastline.
Formed around 70 years ago from an old quarry, the pool gets its name from the Scots word for 'trench'.
With its waters filled by the ferocious waves of the North Sea, the Trinkie offers a unique swimming experience.
On sunny days, you’ll find people enjoying picnics and swimming, all while taking in breathtaking sea views and the sound of waves crashing against the cliffs.
GATEWAY SWIMMING POOL, JUPITER ARTLAND, EDINBURGH
This pool stands out from the others on the list due to its unique artistic context.
Nestled within a 100-acre sculpture park, it is part of an art installation designed by the renowned artist Joana Vasconcelos.
Crafted from thousands of intricately hand-painted Portuguese tiles, the pool is a visually stunning and spiritual visitor space.
Both public and private sessions are available, accommodating up to 12 guests.
Individual half-hour slots can be reserved to enjoy the pool with fellow swimmers.
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A bathing session includes the cost of entry to the Artland - with prices ranging from £15 for members to £27 for adults.
Joana Vasconcelos said: “Gateway is a big splash that invites the public to immerse in a joyful and spirited dimension, leading to a connection with the energy of the Earth."