Cala Macarella-Son Xoriguer 10km

The rhythm of your stroke finds a steady cadence as you pass the limestone cliffs near the coastal settlements of the Iron Age. Below you, the seafloor shifts from fine white sand to rugged rock, marking the proximity of sites like the Son Catlar settlement, where prehistoric structures still stand guard over the shoreline. You are swimming the south coast of Menorca, a landscape defined by the interplay between the sea and the island’s ancient architecture. Every few kilometers, the support vessels—essential for managing the 10km distance—appear as floating waypoints, their large red buoys providing both hydration and navigational guidance through the turquoise expanse.

Nature and water conditions

As you navigate the stretch between Cala Macarella and Son Xoriguer, the environment remains sensitive to the Tramontana wind. While this powerful northern force typically dictates the character of the island, its influence wanes by late September, allowing for more stable southern conditions that favor the race. Keep a keen eye on the horizon; the cliffs are prime territory for the Balearic shearwater, an endangered species that often glides just above the water surface. These seabirds, along with the larger Cory's shearwaters, are common companions for those venturing along these protected coastal corridors. The water's clarity is matched only by the distinctive shell-like geography of the coves, which offer a natural, sheltered path for the duration of the 10,000-meter course.

Race day logistics

Organized by the Menorca Channel Swimming Association, the Travesía Macarena Son-Xoriguer 2026 is scheduled for September 27th. The registration fee of 108 EUR includes essential logistics, such as boat transport to the start line at Cala Macarella and comprehensive safety support from kayaks and official vessels. The race enforces a strict cut-off: you must reach the aid station at Son Saura within two hours, and the total time limit is 4.5 hours. Wetsuit use is permitted, though the event maintains separate classifications for those opting for a non-wetsuit swim, adhering to FINA regulations. Before the start, all participants are required to attend a technical briefing on September 26th, where the final details of the sea conditions and safety protocols are confirmed.