Bluetits Scotland: Monster Dooks

A ‘dook’ is Scottish for dipping! All the regular fun of a Bluetits Swimming Weekend but heading up north. And why monster? Well we will be sharing the water with Nessie at some point over the weekend!

This trip has been graded as moderate for someone of good fitness. A Bluetit motto is ‘No Bluetit Left Behind!’ so what is most important is that you feel able to enjoy the weekend.

The walks will be along the undulating paths and will be a distance of no more than 3 miles at a time. This will be at a gentle pace with plenty of time to rest and take in the views.

You will never be pressured to go out of your depth or beyond your comfort zone when it comes to swimming but you must be able to tread water in order to get the most out of the wild swimming adventure.

You do not need any experience of wild swimming to take part in this adventure weekend. It is advised that you know how to tread water to be able to get the most enjoyment out of the trip.

The weather in the UK is unpredictable and changeable so you must check the local weather forecast prior to arrival and pack accordingly.
Typically, days are cool (average 7°C with highs of 9°C) and nights are a little cooler (down to around 5°C). The water temperature in September tends to be around 9-15°C but can feel much colder.

Please note it is possible to experience extreme deviations from the normal climate pattern and very cold conditions are not impossible. Climate and weather conditions during the trip are out of our control. It is extremely important that you take responsibility to prepare yourself for all weather conditions during this challenge.

Our qualified Bluetit swimming guides are very used to dipping with people new to cold water swimming, and will explain what to expect at every step. We encourage you to take part in ‘The Bluetit Chorus’, which involves plenty of singing, shouting and the odd swear word to help your breath to acclimatise to the cold. Only you know your body, and we advise that you take things easy and allow your body and mind to acclimatise to the cold gradually.

Anyone aged 18+ can take part in the adventure weekend. You must have a good level of fitness, able to self-manage (e.g. you know how to keep hydrated, nourished, warm and dry) and be in good health. You will enjoy the weekend to the fullest if you enjoy being outdoors and want to gently challenge your limits with a supportive group of people. The Bluetit values are Trust, Fun and Inclusivity, and if you share these, you will love this holiday!

Please also note that all participants must be able to swim and tread water comfortably.

This challenge is accompanied by professional Bluetits swim tour guides who will offer expert instruction in techniques and supervise throughout the trip.

You will need to wear comfortable walking boots or sturdy trainers for the walking element of the weekend and we advise you to bring waterproofs given the inclement weather we can experience here in the UK.

Normal swimwear is adequate for swimming. A tow float, swim shoes and brightly coloured hat are essential for safety reasons. Other swimming accessories, such as wet suits, rash vests, swim shoes, gloves, goggles etc., are not essential but may make you feel more comfortable.

If you choose to take part in the coasteering activity you will be provided with the equipment needed but we advise you to bring a pair of old, sturdy trainers and some shorts to wear over your wet suit. Wet suit boots or neoprene beach shoes are not appropriate.

You will also need to bring some dry clothes to change into after your swim. Your body temperature continues to cool for 20-30 minutes after you exit the water and warming up immediately is essential. Loose-fitting clothes, such as big fleecy pyjamas and oversized jumpers, are easier to put on with numb hands and fingers. A wooly hat and big gloves or mittens are also helpful.

Please see the full suggested kit list below.

You will stay in multi-share rooms at a hostel in Inverness and a bunk house in Glenbeg.

The hostel in Inverness is a quiet neighbourhood close to the city centre.

At Glenbeg, we will stay in a cosy converted farmhouse in secluded rural spot.

All meals will be provided as specified in the itinerary below.

You will be provided with packed lunches to take with you during the day.

If you have any dietary requirements you must inform us in advance.

Canyons are natural gorges that have been carved out of the mountainside by a water current. The gorge walk activity will see you navigate these dramatic channels through rock climbing, scrambling, swimming and cliff jumping.

This unique and exhilarating activity will provide you with spots to jump, stretches to swim, plenty of caves to explore and waterfalls to slide down.

Please note: This activity is optional and must be pre-booked at an additional cost. Equipment will be provided but please consult the full suggested kit list below.

The suggested kit list for this trip can be downloaded here