Cavi Sestri Open Water Swimming

In 1542, the coastal settlement of Sestri Levante endured the first of two devastating raids by Turkish and Saracen pirates, an event that etched a permanent mark on the town’s maritime identity. For the modern swimmer, these historical echoes are inseparable from the geography of the swim; the very promontory of Punta Manara, which once hosted a watchtower to spot raiding galleys, now serves as the backdrop for the coastal course. The peninsula itself, which currently houses the historic center, remained an island until the Middle Ages, when alluvial deposits from the Gromolo stream finally anchored it to the mainland.

The water and the route

The Cavi Sestri Open Water Swimming offers 1500m and 3000m distances, following a linear path that keeps the rugged Ligurian shoreline in constant view. Swimmers navigate waters that have seen centuries of maritime commerce and conflict, passing near the Assêu rock with its prominent cross in the neighboring Borgo Renà area. The race is supported by a comprehensive fleet of canoes, rowing boats, and marker buoys, ensuring safety along the coast. While most of the Ligurian season is predictable, the event maintains strict protocols: should sea conditions shift, organizers may relocate the course to the protected Baia delle Favole or, if necessary, halt the competition to prioritize athlete safety. This logistical rigor is standard for local events like the 17th KILOMETRO RIVANO, and participants are advised to consult the race manual for the specific 2026 protocols regarding the check-in and the morning briefing.

Historical landmarks in sight

As you push through the 3000m course, the silhouette of the church of San Nicolo dell'Isola emerges, a structure built in 1151 that features medieval tombstones embedded directly into its walls. The view from the water also captures the remains of military fortifications on Monte Castello, remnants of a strategic defense network used during the Second World War. Swimmers looking for a different challenge in these same waters often participate in the Periplo Manara, which offers a distinct perspective on the promontory's geology. The event, which takes place on May 31, 2026, continues the tradition of open water gatherings in the region, drawing on the same coastal currents that once dictated the movement of merchant ships and pirate vessels alike. The water temperature during this period typically settles into a range suitable for sustained effort, provided the seasonal swells remain calm.