Travesía a nado Platja d'Aro 2026

The rhythmic pull of your arms shifts from the open blue to a more guarded stretch of coast, where the silent, circular stone of the Torre de la Creu del Castellar still watches from the heights of the Puig de la Creu. Once a vital signal point for the monastery of Romanyà de la Selva, this watchtower now serves as your silent guide against the horizon, a remnant of an era when the sea was a path for incoming danger rather than a playground for athletes. You are mid-stroke in the Travesía a nado Platja d'Aro, a challenge that stretches across the coastline of the Baix Empordà, where the history of the Vall d'Aro is etched into the very cliffs you swim past.

Defending the coast

As you navigate the stretch between Platja d'Aro and Sant Antoni de Calonge, the landscape reflects a long history of maritime vigilance. Further inland, the Benedormiens Castle has stood since 1041, originally tasked with shielding the valley from the sea. Closer to your path, the Torre Lloreta once stood as a royal outpost, monitoring the local baron and coordinating defenses against Mediterranean pirates who frequently raided these exact inlets. While the medieval alarms have long since faded, the intensity of the water remains, particularly for those competing in the 5,700m event—a double-loop course that pushes toward the 'Roca dels Musclos' turning point. For those looking for different conditions, you might consider Platja d'Aro Open Water Girona, which offers a distinct challenge later in the season.

Race day logistics

The event, held annually in early July, caters to varying levels of experience, with distances of 1,500m, 3,500m, and 5,700m. The 1,500m distance is designed for those new to the discipline, while the longer circuits are part of the Catalan Open Water Circuit, attracting competitive swimmers who navigate the sand and rocky bottoms characteristic of this part of the Costa Brava. During your effort, you may pass the remains of the Pla de Palol Roman villa, a 10,000 square meter agricultural estate where ceramics were once produced for export. Nearby, the Neolithic Cova dels Moros dolmen stands as a reminder of ancient settlement, just as the long-demolished white wall of the Senya Blanca once guided local fishermen toward safety. Whether you are aiming for a personal best or a solid finish in the 5,700m, the proximity to the coast ensures that these historical watchpoints remain a constant, grounding visual reference throughout your swim.