SWIM & EXPLORE – Swim the islands
This ambitious programme offers a unique open-water swimming adventure and a deep connection with the marine environment of the La Maddalena Archipelago. Participants will explore both the major islands of La Maddalena and Caprera and three of the minor islands—Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria, and Razzoli—experiencing the full variety and beauty of one of the Mediterranean’s most spectacular seascapes.
During our coastal and open-water swims, we will contribute to a Citizen Science project, observing and monitoring alien marine species and jellyfish, encouraging all participants to engage actively and responsibly with the marine ecosystem.
Special attention will also be given to sea and beach clean-ups, collecting both beach litter and marine litter along our routes, combining exploration with meaningful action to protect and preserve the environment.
Dates of tours
21-28 August
About the trip
Start Point: Hotel Miralonga – La Maddalena island.
Start time: 15.00.
Finish Point: Hotel Miralonga – La Maddalena island.
Finish time: 11.00.
Programme
Day 1
Welcome at Hotel Miralonga, where we will meet each other and settle comfortably into our rooms. After some time to recover from the journey, we will take part in an introductory briefing outlining the activities planned for the week.
Before dinner, those who wish may enjoy a refreshing swim in the waters of La Maddalena.
Day 2 – La Maddalena (major island)
The swimming programme will begin with a first session dedicated to equipment familiarisation in the water, open-water swimming techniques through specific exercises, and lifesaving swimming skills, all essential for safe group open-water swimming.
After lunch, we will complete our first coastal swimming excursion around La Maddalena, covering approximately 2.5 km, an ideal introduction to the environment and the group.
Day 3 – Spargi (minor island)
The day will start with a morning briefing, including updates on weather and sea conditions and information about the local marine environment.
We will then transfer by boat to the island of Spargi, one of the jewels of the archipelago, where we will begin our first swimming exploration of the minor islands.
The morning swim will be around 2.5 km, followed in the afternoon by a return swim along the same stretch of coastline, for a total daily distance of approximately 5 km.
Day 4 – Caprera (major island)
After the daily activity briefing, we will head to one of the spectacular coves of Caprera.
Here we will spend a full day dedicated to exploration swimming, alternating coastal sections, sheltered bays and open-water passages.
The morning and afternoon swimming sessions will total approximately 5 km, making this the second excursion on the major islands.
Day 5 – Budelli / Santa Maria (minor islands)
After a hearty breakfast, we will transfer to one of the most iconic islands of the archipelago, Budelli or Santa Maria, depending on sea and weather conditions.
The entire day will be devoted to exploration swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the minor islands, with two coastal swims separated by a lunch break on the beach or on board.
The total swimming distance for the day will be approximately 5 km, representing the second excursion among the minor islands.
Day 6 – Razzoli / Santa Maria (minor islands)
Following the morning briefing and sharing of observations, we will head towards one of the wildest and most dramatic islands of the archipelago: Razzoli (or Santa Maria as an alternative).
Here we will complete the third exploration of the minor islands, swimming along more exposed and spectacular stretches of coastline.
The two swimming sessions planned will cover a total distance of approximately 5 km.
Day 7 – La Maddalena or Caprera (major island)
After the morning briefing and an update on sea and weather conditions, we will head to one of the major islands of the archipelago, La Maddalena or Caprera, depending on the conditions of the day.
The final swimming excursion of the programme will take us along scenic coastal stretches, combining sheltered sections and more open-water passages, allowing us to fully enjoy the beauty and variety of the area.
Two swimming sessions are planned, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, with a lunch break in between. The total swimming distance for the day will be approximately 5 km, bringing the programme to a fitting conclusion with a full day dedicated to exploration, well-being and open-water swimming.
Day 8
Farewell and end of the programme.
Please note: the programme is indicative and may be subject to changes depending on weather and sea conditions.
Accommodation
Participants will be staying at Hotel Miralonga, a spacious and comfortable hotel located by the sea in the residential area of Padule, just a short distance from the stunning beaches of Punta Tegge and Cala Francese. Accommodation is in twin rooms.
Food
Breakfast will be served buffet-style at Hotel Miralonga. Lunch will be prepared as a packed meal and stored on the boats.
Dinners will take place at the Guides apartments. Special dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, or food intolerances) can be accommodated upon request. Please provide written notice of any dietary needs before the start of the trip.
About La Maddalena
The La Maddalena Archipelago is a stunning cluster of islands off the northern coast of Sardinia, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and unspoiled natural beauty. Comprising seven main islands and numerous smaller islets, the archipelago offers a unique mix of breathtaking landscapes, rich marine life, and charming seaside villages. Visitors can explore pristine beaches, rocky cliffs, and turquoise bays, either on foot, by boat, or through open-water swimming adventures, discovering the secrets of this Mediterranean paradise. The islands of La Maddalena, Caprera, Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria, and Razzoli are especially popular for their scenic variety and ecological significance, making the archipelago a must-visit destination for nature lovers, water enthusiasts, and anyone seeking unforgettable coastal experiences.Protected as part of a national marine park, the area combines environmental conservation with incredible opportunities for adventure, offering something for everyone—from relaxing beach days to active exploration of the pristine Mediterranean waters.
Temperatures and conditions
August air temperature: 28°C; Sea temperature: 26°C.
Sea conditions will vary according to the weather and currents. This all adds to the experience of being in open water.
Equipment
Swimtrekking involves the use of specifically designed equipment. One swimmer out of two will tow a light weight, water tight barkino during coastal swims. This is attached to the swimmer by a harness worn around the waist. Barkinos allow swimmers to carry drinking water, aqua shoes, lunch, spare equipment and anything else you will find useful for the days adventure as well as being a visible piece of safety equipment. In addition to this Swimtrekking will provide all guests with wetsuit and fins (you have to bring your own mask and snorkel). These items allow you to freely explore your underwater environment whilst giving you the personal protection required. Guests are free to bring along their own equipment, wetsuit.
What to bring
On top of your normal clothes you should bring with you:
a waterproof/wind jacket, warm sweatshirt, walking shoes/sandals, sun hat and sun glasses.
For the Orienteering activities bring some trekking poles and walking shoes
Getting to the La Maddalena Archipelago
By ferry:
You can reach Olbia from the ports of Civitavecchia, Livorno, Piombino, and Genoa. Ferry companies operating these routes include: Grimaldi Lines, Moby Lines, and Tirrenia.
Once in Olbia, you can take a local bus or taxi to Palau. From Palau, it’s a 15-minute ferry ride to La Maddalena with Delcomar or Maddalena Lines.
By plane:
Olbia is served by flights from several Italian and international cities. Airlines flying these routes include: Aeroitalia, Volotea, Ryanair, EasyJet,Wizz Air and Ita Airways. From the airport, you can reach Palau by bus with ARST or by taxi.
When booking your trip, it is recommended to check transport connections to and from the La Maddalena Archipelago in advance.
In the days before the programme, each participant will be provided with the instructor’s mobile number to help organise, whenever possible, any group transfers or shared transport.
Important informations
Approximately daily swimming distance: 5 kilometers.
Program will be supervised by qualified Swimtrekking Instructors/Guides.
Swimtrekking Instructors/Guides will be responsible for all the camp organization and logistics.
Timing and itineraries can be modified according to the sea and weather conditions and may be cancelled.
