Courtesy of Jackie Young, Snowdonia, Wales.
Open water swimming is growing in popularity among people of all ages with individuals from all across the globe taking to the oceans, seas and lakes of the world to take part in races and recreational swims alike. The biggest appeal of open water swimming lies in the fact that it is challenging while being relatively easy on both your joints and your bank account.
Each location presents its own challenges. Colder water can possibly lead to hypothermia while rivers have currents to contest. The possibilities are endless when looking at worldwide open water swimming destinations and range from the stylish beaches of the Caribbean to the natural beauty of the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas.
The Dalmatian Coast of Croatia is without a doubt one of the most picturesque regions in the Mediterranean Sea, boasting golden beaches and crystal clean waters beckoning visitors to come swim. Regardless of how you choose to spend your time exploring the coast, visitors of all ages will be blown away by the sheer natural grandeur of the area.
Due to the Adriatic Sea being almost entirely cordoned off the coast is inundated with bays, islands, and coves, resulting in a lack of currents, tides and big waves – perfect conditions for swimming.
Why swim in Croatia?
Apart from the pristine waters of the Adriatic Sea, swimmers don’t have to fear being mauled by sharks or other dangerous marine animals as there aren’t any. The pleasant climate also ensures that the sea is amiable enough to swim in from May through to October every year. If you want to expand your trip to Croatia beyond open-sea swimming by walking on the beach, indulging in a hip beach-culture or just enjoying being surrounded by the natural beauty of your surroundings, Bol, Zrce, and Brseč are all worth a visit.If you are looking for family-friendly spots where your children can play safely in shallow water while you take a swim, beaches such as Sunj and Medveja should be at the top of your list.
A Swimmers’ Paradise
The rate at which open water swimming is increasing in popularity is astonishing. Whether you are a professional or recreational open-water swimmer, the Croatian Coast is the ideal setting if you want to experience a challenging swim in gorgeous surrounds. A trip to the Sibenik archipelago and Kornati Islands National Park in Croatia offers seemingly short swims although many of those who have completed them may be of a different opinion. The clear waters allow for an unobstructed glimpse into the scenic marine-world below, making it easier to battle the discomfort and fatigue that may be associated with an open sea swim. For those swimmers with a competitive streak, long distance open water races are held almost every weekend during the summer and are extremely popular among locals and visitors alike.
There are many beautiful destinations around the world to explore if you are an avid open water swimmer but not many can compete with a Croatian swimming experience. If you are still in two minds about whether to add Croatia to your list of must-visit places, just speak to anyone who has made the trip – your mind will be changed almost immediately.
SwimCruise
Mateo Jurić and Ivan Vranjes of SwimCruise, an example of the many swimming holiday providers in Croatia.
In SwimCruise, the aquatic vacationers stay on and in the water training while relaxing, eating and sleeping on 4- and 5-star category boats.
For more information, visit www.SwimCruise.com.
Copyright © 2018 by Jackie Young