TRIP OVERVIEW
Trip Dates
24 Sep - 30 Sep |
Finished
|
01 Oct - 07 Oct |
Started
|
08 Oct - 14 Oct |
Full
|
26 May - 01 Jun |
Available
|
02 Jun - 08 Jun |
Available
|
09 Jun - 15 Jun |
Full
|
16 Jun - 22 Jun |
2 Spaces
|
15 Sep - 21 Sep |
Available
|
22 Sep - 28 Sep |
Available
|
29 Sep - 05 Oct |
Available
|
06 Oct - 12 Oct |
Available
|
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Tour Highlights
Swim in the warm clarity of the Ionian Sea as you explore the stunning western coast of mainland Greece
Complete a series of exciting circumnavigations around the three islands which make up the Mavro Oros Archipelago
Explore the region's most memorable (and lesser-swum) spots with a variety of cave, tunnel and arch swimming
Kick back in the quiet hillside town of Sivota on the shores of the Ionian Sea - an ideal base for your local swim adventures
Based in the picturesque town of Sivota, this swimming holiday in Greece gives you the opportunity to explore the crystalline waters of the Ionian Sea. From spectacular caves and tunnels, to stunning underwater topography and marine life, there is always something to discover on this wonderful open water swimming adventure.
The quiet town of Sivota is situated on Greece’s western coast on the shores of the Ionian Sea. The hillside setting and surrounding landscape are an idyllic base for the week and offer us the chance to seek out the area’s coves, beaches, and islands. The islands of Mourtemeno, Agios Nikolaos and Mavro Oros all sit between the mainland and the nearby island of Corfu - their craggy coastlines make them ideal to swim alongside and explore.
The nature of this trip means that we actively seek out caves, tunnels, and swim-throughs over the course of the week, with our guides often jumping in the water with you to share in the experience.
Who is this trip for?
This trip is designed for swimmers who enjoy a combination of coastal swims, short crossings, and circumnavigations. With plenty of caves and tunnels to discover, it is a great option for the swimmer who likes to take the time to explore their surroundings as they swim. This trip is also well suited to non-swimming partners.
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 2km per swim. The average daily swim distance is around 4km.
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
- Welcome Drinks (included by the hotel)
What's not included?
- Travel to and from the start of the trip
- Evening meals
- Drinks and additional activities
- Overnight Stay Tax (paid locally)
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
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Map
Location Summary
Trip Grading
Trip Information
Getting There
Accommodation
Travel Advice
Related Trips
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This destination is one of the most beautiful places we have ever been.
Linda L, UK - 2022 -
Beautiful location, great food and company and some stunning swims with plenty of things to see!
Laura HS, UK - 2022 -
I keep returning to SwimTrek because of the well chosen locations, lovely guides and the well run organisation. I know what I get and I'm happy to have been with SwimTrek every time.
Frederik VW, Germany - 2022 -
A fantastic selection of swims - coastal and crossings, with lots of marine life to see en route. Great base - nice accommodation and lots of restaurants and bars close at hand.
Mark G, Ireland - UK - 2022 -
A SwimTrek trip combines the best part of a relaxing holiday in a beautiful location with plenty of exercise. I love the camaraderie and team spirit that comes from open water swimming together.
Francisca Jonsson, 2021 -
Absolutely brilliant holiday. Wonderful group, excellent guides, comfortable, well-located hotel. I can't believe I swam 4k in one hit!
Sarah Harris, 2021 -
No better way to emerge from the pandemic!
Vanessa Yardley, 2021 -
A very fun time! Great to explore a new place with guides and awesome travel companions. This was my first swim trek and I plan to do another!
Rebecca Gleason , 2021 -
Exceeded all my expectations! The combination of swimming and relaxation was perfect meaning I've come home feeling strong and confident about my swimming but also relaxed from the overall holiday vibe :)
Lyndsay Davis, 2021 -
A truly memorable experience in a special place with the most amazing guides and great group of swimmers.
Harry I, Zimbabwe - 2019 -
It's been ages since I had such a really fun holiday. Perfect mix of physical activity, fun people, beautiful scenery and great food.
Sheryl C, China - 2019 -
For my first SwimTrek the Ionian Explorer was a truly magical trip that exceeded all expectations - I now understand the SwimTrek addiction!
Melissa K, Australia - 2019 -
It was beyond expectations.
Stephan M, Netherlands - 2019 -
I have had an extremely good time on this trip. The Hotel was nice and very practically situated right by the sea with delicious Mediterranean food. The water quality was superb and the guides did their best to make everyone happy. There was so much sea-life to discover and even some corals could be seen in the water.
Susanne, Germany - 2018 -
This was my first SwimTrek holiday and it was wonderful. Lovely clear water, lots of caves to explore, great guides and a fun group of people. I loved every minute of it.
Judith, UK - 2018 -
SwimTrek created a good framework for people to come together from all walks of life and ages to have a great holiday experience.
Adrian M, UK - 2018 -
This vacation was one of the best I have ever had: the sea, the company, the non-competitive atmosphere. It was just great. I am ready to embark on another one tomorrow.
Michael, C. Israel- 2017 -
Stunning location, this trip completely surpassed my expectations.
Nicola K. UK - 2017 -
Kudos to SwimTrek! The trip exceeded our expectations! We will be back.
Mark S. US - 2017

Boat and swimmers after water entry

Sally and our swimmers - with Anna, our guide

Rocky coastline swim

Pod of SwimTrekkers in the shallows

Cutting around the coastline

Swimmers and escort boat

SwimTrekkers in the Ionian blues

Ionian sea cave swimmer

What a view!

Guide Eoin dipping his toes in

The great location of the Hotel Filakas

Having such a great time!

Taking the time to enjoy every stroke

swimming down the coast

Enoy the wonderful colours of the sea and cliffs

The peaceful harbour of Sivota

Exploring the many caves

A swimmer chatting with guide Donnchadh

Swimming in tandem

Rocky cliffsides

Every corner see more impressive mountainside

Rocky cliffsides line the way

Guides watching on

Impressive cliffsides line your way

Perfect turquoise waters

Swim

Clear waters
Sofos Bay
Passing Through Mavro Oros
Underwater Selfie
Underwater tranquility
.
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