After meeting in the hotel reception, we will have a welcome meeting and safety briefing to discuss our plans for the coming week. We will then complete a short acclimatisation swim before returning to the hotel for a welcome drink. Our evening will conclude with a group dinner, which is a great opportunity to get to know your fellow swimmers.

After a delicious hotel breakfast, we set off on our first hike. Unspoilt by traffic, Marettimo is pretty much roadless outside the tiny village and port. We can leave directly from the hotel and soon be travelling ancient coastal trails to Punta Troia. There we will be greeted by a dramatic fortress atop one of the island's most spectacular headlands. Along the way, we also enjoy sweeping sea views, rugged limestone scenery and an introduction to the island's unique landscapes and history.

After a well-earned lunch, it's time to experience the island from the water. Our afternoon swim follows the spectacular coastline back towards car-free Marettimo village, passing below towering limestone cliffs, through crystal-clear water and alongside secluded coves. Keep an eye out for seabirds soaring overhead and the colourful marine life that thrives within the protected Egadi Marine Reserve, while enjoying a completely different perspective of the coastline you've just explored on foot.

After breakfast, we leave the village behind and follow ancient mule tracks into Marettimo's mountainous interior. Our hike passes through Case Romane before continuing to Zotta Muletti, with panoramic views and plenty of opportunities to learn about the island's history, geology and wildlife.

After lunch, we swim along the spectacular western coastline towards Punta Libeccio. Expect clear water, dramatic limestone cliffs and, conditions permitting, the chance to explore secluded coves and sea caves. The rest of the day is free to relax before enjoying dinner at one of Marettimo's excellent local restaurants.

Breakfast will be taken at the hotel before we head to Punta Troia for today's coastal swim. Setting off beneath the island's impressive clifftop fortress, we'll follow Marettimo's rugged northern coastline towards Punta Mugnone. On this swim, we pass towering limestone rock formations, secluded coves and sea caves, including the echoing ‘Thunder Cave’ - one of the island's most distinctive natural features.

Following lunch aboard the boat, your afternoon is free to relax. Unwind by the hotel's pool, soak in the hot tubs or take a stroll through Marettimo village at your own pace.

This evening, we'll come together for a special cooking demonstration at the hotel, celebrating the flavours of Sicilian cuisine. Using fresh local ingredients, you'll watch traditional dishes being prepared before sitting down to enjoy an authentic dinner together.

After breakfast, we set off on our morning hike, following coastal trails from Marettimo village to the Punta Libeccio Lighthouse. Perched on the island's westernmost point, the lighthouse offers far-reaching views across the open Mediterranean and stands sentinel at Marettimo's remotest reaches.

Following lunch, we begin our final swim from Punta Libeccio to Grotta della Ficaredda. This beautiful stretch of coastline is known for its hidden sea caves. Keep an eye out for shoals of seabream and marine life hiding in the sea grass.

This evening is free for you to enjoy Marettimo at your own pace. Soak up the relaxed atmosphere of island life and sample some local cuisine at one of Marettimo’s restaurants.

After breakfast, we set off on our final hike, following scenic coastal trails to Punta Bassana on Marettimo's eastern shoreline. This is the quieter side of the island, with sweeping views across the Tyrrhenian Sea – a final opportunity to appreciate the island's rugged landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. Following lunch, we complete a coastal swim from Punta Bassana back to Marettimo village. Swimming towards the colourful harbour provides a fitting finale, offering us the chance to enjoy the striking coastline, which has made the island such a memorable destination.

This evening, we'll gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate a wonderful week of swimming, hiking and exploring together. It's the perfect opportunity to reflect on the adventure and enjoy one final evening of authentic Sicilian hospitality.

This morning, we'll enjoy one final swim in Marettimo's stunning waters before returning to the hotel for breakfast. After a memorable week of swimming and hiking, it's time to pack, say our goodbyes and begin our onward journeys.

We have given this trip a 'Moderate' grading for swimming. The average daily distance in open water for this trip is around 3km. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.

Swimming Distances

*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.

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

Group Size

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

Boat support on this trip includes three support vessels, two main boats and one dinghy. These will be piloted by our local partners. Please note that this boat support is subject to change without notice and cannot be guaranteed.

Food and Drink

All breakfasts, lunches during your swim days and one dinner are included in your trip price however the remaining dinners are at your own expense. This gives you a fantastic opportunity to explore the menus and experience the local restaurants of your choice over the course of your trip.

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

Weather Caveat

For safety reasons, we rely on decent weather conditions when carrying out our swims. Therefore, 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.

Most people comfortable walking for a duration of 2 hours, with some inclines and some uneven or rocky pathways, will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.

Hiking distances

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

Hiking Conditions

The walks that we undertake will be led by a professional hiking guide, and will mostly be on recognized paths and trails. The routes that we walk will have inclines and declines, and surfaces may be uneven, rocky or slippy. Care should be taken and proper walking boots with ankle support should be worn.

For your basic, essential packing list, please visit our Packing List page on the website.

In addition to our standard recommended packing list, we also recommend that you bring the following additional items on this trip:

SwimTrek is all about the swimming! Our trips, including SwimHikes, are designed and structured around swimming activities. Non-swimming partners, friends and family generally won't be able to take part in the planned activities, but of course are welcome to join for any social activities or meals.

Most of our destinations have plenty of other activities available for non-swimmers, but these will be need to be arranged separately.

For this trip in particular, non-swimmers will unfortunately not be able to join the hikes.

The easiest route to Marettimo Island is to fly via Palermo Sicily, take a transfer by bus directly from the airport to the ferry port in Trapani for either a ferry or faster hydrofoil. There are some seasonal direct flights to Trapani from a few EU airports, such as London Stanstead but these are often limited.

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.

Palermo airport to Trapani Port

From Palermo Airport, take the Segesta Autolinee bus from the bus stops outside the Arrivals terminal to Trapani Port, this takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. Tickets can be purchased online, at the Segesta desk in the Arrivals hall, or from the driver. Alternatively, a private taxi takes around 1 hour 15 minutes.

Trapani Port to Marettimo Port

From Trapani Port, take either the Liberty Lines hydrofoil to Marettimo (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes) or the Siremar ferry (approximately 3 hours). Tickets can be purchased online in advance via the Liberty Lines or Siremar website, or from the operators' ticket offices at Trapani Port. During the summer season, we recommend booking hydrofoil tickets in advance, as services can sell out.

From Marettimo Port to the hotel

When you disembark the ferry, it is approximately a 5-10 minute walk to the Marettimo Residence. Simply follow the road away from the ferry terminal around to the left and the hotel will be visible. The What Three Words location for the hotel is: ///thresholds.midfield.tuxedo.

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation and Trip Extension Options

If you want to book additional nights either side of your trip, please contact the hotel directly or visit their website.

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 such items as transfers, entertainment, ice-creams, dinners, souvenirs, etc. The local currency is the Euro (€).

In some countries tipping (gratuities) is not part of the culture - in others it has become an expected norm. We believe that tipping is entirely at your 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.

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.

Health Information and Recommended Vaccinations

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.