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TRIP OVERVIEW

7 days
Classic
5km/day
Moderate

Trip Dates

2024
01 Jun - 07 Jun
Full
08 Jun - 14 Jun
Private
15 Jun - 21 Jun
1 Space
29 Jun - 05 Jul
1 Space
06 Jul - 12 Jul
1 Space
13 Jul - 19 Jul
Full
24 Aug - 30 Aug
Full
07 Sep - 13 Sep
3 Spaces
14 Sep - 20 Sep
Private
28 Sep - 04 Oct
Full
2025
31 May - 06 Jun
Available
07 Jun - 13 Jun
Available
14 Jun - 20 Jun
Available
21 Jun - 27 Jun
Available
05 Jul - 11 Jul
Available
12 Jul - 18 Jul
Available
06 Sep - 12 Sep
Private
13 Sep - 19 Sep
Available
27 Sep - 03 Oct
3 Spaces
04 Oct - 10 Oct
Available
2026

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Tour Highlights

  • Be inspired by island-hopping swims between the three northern islands of Budelli, Santa Maria and Razzoli

  • Complete a beautiful and challenging swim from the main island of Isola Maddalena to the smaller island of Isola Spargi

  • Explore Caprera's eastern shoreline, ending at the pristine beach of Tahiti (named after the South Pacific island)

  • Enjoy the abundant flora and fauna as we criss-cross our way around the Maddalena Archipelago

There is no better way to experience the natural beauty and idyllic waters of Sardinia’s Emerald Coast than with our fully guided swimming holiday. Discover one of Italy’s most picturesque locations – a yachtie’s paradise - from water level. Leap into green-blue seas and swim along sun-drenched island coastlines, uncovering the many secrets of Mediterranean ‘Costa Smeralda,’ as well as tracing unique routes where the yachts can’t follow.

The Maddalena archipelago, which forms part of Sardinia’s Emerald Coast, is a small group of seven islands with crystalline waters, pink sand beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs and a collection of coloured coves and granite sculptures.

The National Park, formed in 1994 as ‘Parco Nazionale Arcipelago di La Maddalena’, is located inside the Straits of Bonifacio, between the islands of Sardinia and Corsica. The southern part of the archipelago, with the two largest islands of La Maddalena and Caprera, are a perfect base for some dramatic coastal swims. While the more remote and uninhabited islands of Spargi, Budelli, Razzoli and Santa Maria are great venues for some challenging island-hopping swims and a short circumnavigation.

The main town of La Maddalena, a short distance from our base for the week, is a traditional Sardinian town, and an ideal venue to spend time relaxing after our daily exertions. This trip features a variety of both coastal and island-hopping swims, interspersed with focused coaching by our qualified guides.

If you would like to explore this part of the world, but are looking for slightly longer swimming distances, please check out our Emerald Coast Long Swims - Sardinia.


Who is this for?

This trip is for those who enjoy a combination of coastal swims and island-hopping. It is ideally suited for anyone who relishes clear, warm waters, spectacular vistas, and wildlife sightings, both above and below water.

Swimmers should have a basic understanding of open water swimming and be capable of completing the average swim distance and average daily swim distance (over the course of two swims) prior to the start of the trip.

The average swim distance is around 2.5km. The average daily swim distance is around 5km.

We have given this trip a ‘Moderate’ grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.


What's included?

  • Fully guided swimming holiday (swimmers only)
  • Professional swim guides and full safety escort on all swims (swimmers only)
  • Six nights' accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • All lunches (swimmers only)
  • Full ABTOT Financial Protection
  • Technique advice with video playback (swimmers only)

What's not included?

  • Travel to and from the start of the trip
  • Evening meals
  • Drinks and additional activities

Sample Trip Itinerary

Please note that the below daily itineraries are an example of the swims that may take place during your trip, however, actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions. Your SwimTrek guides and local boat pilots will determine the most suitable swim locations each day and will communicate the plan with all guests as soon as possible.

Trip Schedule

Start Point: Hotel Miralonga , La Maddalena

Start Time: 17:00 on Day 1

Finish Point: Hotel Miralonga , La Maddalena

Finish Time: 11:00 on Day 7

Day 1

After your arrival, you will have a chance to relax before meeting in the evening at the hotel for a welcome drink and pre-trip safety briefing. This is where the week’s plan will be discussed in detail.

Day 2

We meet for a short walk to the sparkling waters of Punte Tegge for an acclimatisation swim, an optional technique advice & video session, focusing on open water technique and videoing your stroke both above and below water. This will then be reviewed later in the evening over drinks. After lunch and a chance to relax, we set off on an enchanting coastal swim from the tranquil bay of Cala Francese to Punte Tegge.

Day 3

After a short boat ride to Isola Santo Stefano, we set off from its west coast at La Fiumata for our first swim of the day around Roma Island. The island boasts a glorious statue dedicated to all seafarers and we finish the swim in the beautiful Valtur Bay. After lunch we take a short walk, which allows you to take in the panoramic views from the island. We then swim south out of the bay past Punta San Giorgio along the coast, finishing in Cala di Vela Marina.

Day 4

A short boat journey this morning takes you west for our first crossing of the week: La Maddalena to Spargi. It’s a great swim and we finish at the tranquil beach of Cala Canniccio underneath the island’s wooded slopes. Spargi is known for its majestic rock formations and ancient shipwrecks on the seafloor, so there’s plenty to look out for underwater. After lunch, the second swim is either around the smaller neighbouring island of Spargiotto or a coastal swim down the northwest beaches of Spargi, finishing at Cala Piscioli depending on local conditions.

Day 5

We start the day with a boat trip to the North of the Maddalena Archipelago. For the morning’s swim you’ll be undertaking small crossings and some coastal swimming to allow you to touch all three islands. The water here could be described as closely resembling a swimming pool as the sea is enclosed on most sides by the three islands. After lunch, you’ll explore the coast for your afternoon swim.

Day 6

It’s time to travel east to Isola Caprera - home of the General and politician Giuseppe Garibaldi. From here, we enjoy a stunning coastal swim from Spiaggia Tahiti, characterised by its fine white sand to Cala Brigantina. Following lunch, we take a short walk to Batterie di Punta Rossa where you can explore the barracks and gun emplacements of this ancient fort. The afternoon is given over to a crossing and a full circumnavigation swim of Isola Porco.

Day 7

We take a leisurely morning swim in the local bay before breakfast to conclude our journey around the Maddalena archipelago.

Accommodation

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Hotel Miralonga

Our accommodation for the duration of the trip is at the comfortable Hotel Miralonga. Located just a few minutes walk from the water, the hotel offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool and a bar and restaurant with terrace for you to enjoy dinner or a drink at the end of each day.

Location Summary

La Maddalena

The main island of the archipelago, La Maddalena, is renowned for its beaches and rocky terrain. It has several ancient fortifications - perfect for exploring on hikes around the island. The main town, also called La Maddalena, has a lovely mix of cobbled streets and a vibrant seafront.

Caprera

Located less than a kilometre away from the larger island of La Maddalena, Caprera has its own unique charm. It is famous for being the home of the Italian patriot and fighter, Giuseppe Garibaldi, who was one of the fathers of Italian Independence. Great beaches adorn its eastern side.

Spargi

Spargi is home to some of the most picturesque coastline in the archipelago. It is an island that is definitely worth a visit, with beautiful views of the dramatic Maddalena coast.

Budelli

Renowned for its Spiaggia Rosa (‘Pink Beach’) on the south-eastern part of the island, this natural phenomenon owes its colour to microscopic fragments of corals and shells.

Razzoli & Santa Maria

These two islands are the northernmost point of Sardinia and from here you can clearly see Corsica across the Straits of Bonifacio. It’s only 100 metres between Razzoli and Santa Maria and you can see the sandy seabed all the way across. These remote islands join up with Budelli on our three-island swim in a central lagoon of glittering sea water.

Trip Grading

We have given this trip a ‘Moderate’ grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.

Swimming Distances

Swim Distances Swim Distances
Cala Francese - Punte Tegge 2km
La Fiumata – Punta Santo Stefano 4km Punta San Giorgio - Cala di Vela Marina 1km
Maddalena - Spargi 3½km Spargi - Spargiotto 2½km
Maddalena Archipelago 4km Santa Maria Coastal 1km
Capera Coastal Swim 3km Circumnavigation of Isola Porco 1½km

*Please note that these swims are an example of what may take place during your trip and should be used as a guide only. Actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and swim conditions.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the open water is a fantastic experience, however you should be aware that certain marine life such as jellyfish, plankton, sea lice, sea urchins and coral could be present during the swims and may cause some discomfort. In all cases we will work on reducing your contact with these creatures and that any interactions are managed safely. If you suffer from anaphylaxis, please consult the office prior to booking.

Walking Distances

Walk Distance
Isola Santo Stefano 1km
Cala Lunga - Faro Razzoli 2km
Batteries di Punta Rossa 1km

Walking Conditions

Most walks take place on recognised paths and tracks, however there may be cases where we walk along trails or other unsealed surfaces where vegetation can often be overgrown. Long trousers and appropriate walking shoes/sandals are recommended for these walks.

Temperatures

Month Water Temperature* Air Temperature*
May 15-21˚C / 62-68˚F 21-25˚C / 68-77˚F
June 20-24˚C / 68-75˚F 24-26˚C / 75-79˚F
July 23-26˚C / 73-79˚F 28-30˚C / 82-86˚F
August 23-27˚C / 73-81˚F 29-31˚C / 84-88˚F
September 22-25˚C / 72-77˚F 25-27˚C / 77-81˚F
October 19-24˚C / 66-75˚F 15-23˚C / 62-74˚F

*Please note that these temperatures are indicative and should be used as a guide only.

Weather Caveat

For safety reasons, we rely on decent weather conditions when carrying out our swims. As a consequence, open water swimming holidays require a certain degree of on-trip flexibility which can result in changes to the planned itinerary. These changes often add a touch of uniqueness to your trip and will be communicated to you by your SwimTrek guides as quickly as possible.

Trip Information

Group Size and Boat Support

This trip has a maximum group size of 15. The group will be split into a maximum of three groups, based on speed, with each group being accompanied by their own safety vessel/escort. 

Boat support on this trip includes one main boat and two support boats to be piloted by your SwimTrek guides and a local boat pilot. Please note that this boat support is subject to change without notice and cannot be guaranteed.

Equipment Checklist

For your basic, essential packing list, please visit our Packing List page on the website. For additional, location specific items, please see the information below.

SwimTrek will provide water and electrolytes at every location and refill your bottles.

There are no additional, specific items required for this location.

Getting There

As SwimTrekkers come from all over the world, and join our swimming holidays in numerous destinations, we don't currently offer flights as part of our SwimTrek packages. We do however want to do as much as we can to ensure that our guests get the best deals when travelling to one of our trips so check out SwimTrek's tips to help you get the best deals for your flights page on the website.

The easiest way to get to the start of your trip is to fly into the international airport in Olbia. It lies 50km south of Palau, the gateway port to La Maddalena. Another option is Alghero Airport which is situated just over 100 kilometres south-west of Palau.

Transport from Olbia Airport to Palau

There are a number of public transport options and more information can be found on the airport website: www.geasar.it/en/how-to-get-here/by-bus

DIRECT – there is a direct bus that runs from the airport to Palau once a day and takes about 1 hour.

The timetable for this bus can be found here: trasportopubblico.gruppoturmotravel.com.

Please note you may have to keep checking the page nearer the time for up to date timetables.

VIA Olbia - there are several bus options if you travel via Olbia centre. You can catch Linea 10 or Linea 2 from the airport to Olbia. More information can be found here: www.geasar.it/en/how-to-get-here/from-to-olbia. The 601 runs regularly from Olbia centre to Palau Port

Locally, transport companies also use Moovit - moovitapp.com/cagliari_e_sardegna-1262/poi/en - to display services.

TAXI – you can also find Taxi information on the airport website: geasar.it/en/how-to-get-here/taxi.

Ferries from Palau to La Maddalena

Regular ferries depart from Palau to La Maddalena throughout the day and evening and depart roughly every 30 minutes during peak season. Tickets need to be purchased at the ferry office on the harbour front before sailing. Prices are approximately €5 each way and it takes approximately 20 minutes to reach La Maddalena Harbour. Once published, up-to-date timetables can be found at: www.delcomar.it.

Maddalena Port to Hotel Miralonga

The hotel is situated 1km west of La Maddalena Harbour, a 20 minute walk through town. We recommend catching a taxi from the harbour to the hotel (5-10 minute taxi ride). Prices of taxis can vary, however, as a guide, the short journey should cost approximately €20.

Accommodation

Our accommodation for the duration of the trip is at the comfortable Hotel Miralonga. Located approximately 1km west of La Maddalena Harbour, Hotel Miralonga is just a few minutes' walk from the water. The hotel offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, bar, and restaurant with terrace for you to enjoy dinner or a drink at the end of each day.

Our accommodation is based on twin-share rooms with en suite facilities. Standard and sea view rooms are available, as well as a limited number of single supplement rooms, all of which can be reserved during the booking process, subject to availability.

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation and Trip Extension Options

If you would like to extend your stay in Sardinia and need to book additional nights’ accommodation before or after your trip, please contact the hotel directly via: info@miralonga.it.

Food and Drink

All breakfasts and lunches are included in your trip price - however, dinners are at your own expense. Upon arrival, on the first night of the trip, you are welcome to join us for dinner at Hotel Miralonga. There will be further opportunities throughout the trip, to join us in eating out as a group, at locally recommended cafes and restaurants. Feel free to also explore and experience the local cafes and restaurants of your choice.

For more information, please visit our food and drink page on the website.

Travel Advice

For more information on any of the following sections please visit the Travel Advice page of our website.

Money, Extra Expenses and Tipping

You should bring extra money with you to cover items such as meals not already included in your package, drinks, entertainment, souvenirs, etc.

In some countries, tipping (gratuities) is not part of the culture - in others it has become an expected norm. We believe that tipping is done entirely at your own discretion. If you have been provided with excellent service it may be something you wish to do. Your SwimTrek Guides can advise on local norms for service providers like boat crew, waiters or taxis. Nothing is expected for your SwimTrek Guides but many groups like to present something to the Guides at the end of the trip.

The local currency in Italy is the Euro (€).

Responsible Travel

SwimTrek is conscious of the importance of protecting the world’s natural wonders. We are acutely aware of our responsibility to not only take care of the natural environments which we are lucky enough to explore, but also to educate our guests about the importance of conservation efforts and responsible tourism. It’s for this reason that we have worked so closely with our partners to ensure that our trips are conducted in the most responsible and sustainable way possible, working tirelessly to minimise the impact of our presence on local marine life and the natural habitat.

For more information, please visit our Responsible Travel page on the website.

Passports and Visas

Italy is part of the European Union. Non-residents of Italy require a full passport to enter the country, which should be valid for six months beyond the expected length of stay. Citizens of all EU member states, the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand do not require a visa to enter Italy. Please note that visa regulations are subject to change and it is important that you check your own visa requirements prior to travel.

Travel Insurance

We consider comprehensive travel insurance to be essential, and we strongly recommend that you purchase insurance which includes, but is not limited to, cover for illness, accident, emergency repatriation, ambulance, air ambulance, helicopter rescue services, cancellation, lost luggage and delays. Your travel insurance should also cover you for open water swimming and any other activity listed in your trip itinerary (including races and competitions, where applicable). Please read your policy details carefully and remember to take them with you on your trip for your own reference.

For further information, please visit our Travel Insurance page on the website.

Here at SwimTrek, we pride ourselves on our focus on safety and the well-being of all our guests. As we operate in some beautiful and remote locations medical facilities are not always easily accessible. SwimTrek Guides, and many staff working for our local partners, are first aid trained. However, we ask that you read our Travel Health page to ensure that you are informed about general Travel and Swim Health precautions.

Travel Plugs & Electricity

For a useful source of information on the different electrical outlets, electrical plugs, and electric sockets, please visit www.worldstandards.eu.


Related Trips

  • Sardinian Archipelago swimtrek is sensational. Swim variety, beautiful location, water quality and Italian food...exceptional. Another fantastic trip!

    Harriet L, UK - 2023
  • Alessandra and Noah were fantastic guides. They took excellent care of us and were well-prepared for everything. Together with Luca, the captain, they selected the best swims for us and were very attentive to the wind and currents. The food on the boat was delicious. We didn't have to worry about anything and could fully concentrate on swimming. Mille grazie a tutte le tre!

    Iris K, Germany - 2023
  • 10/10 !!! Good guides, good pilot and good vibes between all of us.

    Andoni, Spain - 2023
  • We had a great week, wonderful like-minded group and a good crew to support us. Francesco is passionate about sea-swimming and the Costa Smeralda didn't disappoint. Thank you SwimTrek!

    Lucy D, UK - 2022
  • This was my first Swimtrek. What a magical experience! Our guides were incredibly encouraging and kind - and I connected with a wonderful bunch of relaxed fellow swimmers. The Emerald Coast is absolutely stunning and exploring the sea together was an absolute joy. I loved every single minute of it. Bravo!

    Alina H, Germany - 2022
  • This was the experience of a lifetime! Stunning location, stunning country and wonderful swims. The group was great. Francesco and Edmondo are the best guides!

    Julia F, Italy - 2022
  • Swimming in Sardinia is enjoying amazing rock sculptures and underwater landscapes.

    Ming, 2021
  • Francesco was a fabulous guide around this beautiful coast. Good swimming, good company and good food! I hope my second SwimTrek experience will be as good as this one.

    Catherine, 2021
  • SwimTrek is a unique experience shared with like-minded special people. A perfect holiday with sun, sea, swim and camaraderie. I can't wait for my next trip!

    Helena Jevans, 2021