Travesía a nado Cala Montgó 2026

The morning at Cala Montgó begins with a familiar hum: the local community and long-time participants gathering at the shoreline, well before the sun fully hits the rugged limestone of the Montgrí Massif. Organised by SwimNoLimits, this event has become a staple for those drawn to the raw, untamed character of the Costa Brava. Athletes return year after year, not just for the swim, but for the specific thrill of threading through a natural vault—a cavernous passage carved into the rock face where the cliffs rise 80 metres above the water. It is a rare experience to swim through such a geological feature, which serves as the centrepiece for the middle and long-distance courses.

The underwater environment

Navigating these waters requires an awareness of the shifting marine landscape. The 5000m course, in particular, demands navigation around the Punta de Milà and across to Illa Mateua, where swimmers pass directly over the visible, calcified remains of the Cotentin, a military vessel that met its end here in 1963. This is not open water in a vacuum; it is a space defined by the nearby mouth of the Ter River, whose sediment discharge plays a defining role in the clarity and composition of the seabed. While the Medes Islands marine reserve remains a protected sanctuary further along the coast, its influence on the biodiversity of this entire stretch is palpable to anyone looking down during the calmer sections of the race. The history of the area is equally layered, though far less visible than the wreck, with the remnants of 16th-century defensive towers still standing guard on the cliffs above to protect against past pirate raids. For those seeking a different pacing in the region, the 10th OncoSwim takes place just days later, offering a distinct challenge along the same coastline.

Race day logistics

The 2026 edition, scheduled for May 24th, offers distances of 1500m, 3000m, and 5000m, catering to a wide range of experience levels. The logistical setup is designed to manage the specific challenges of this coastal terrain, ensuring safety through a well-monitored buoy system that guides swimmers through the caves and past the shipwrecks. Beyond the main competition, the event hosts relay and children's categories, with entries for these handled on-site at the race village. Those familiar with the local circuit often compare the technical demands here to the MIC Open Water, though the specific geology of the Cala Montgó cliffs remains the primary draw for the seasoned swimmer.