TRIP OVERVIEW

Trip Dates

2027

11 Jul - 17 Jul	Available
18 Jul - 24 Jul	Available
25 Jul - 31 Jul	Available

2028

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Tour Highlights

Swim through the clear freshwater of Lake Bolsena, following its volcanic shoreline on a varied mix of point-to-point and island swims.
Venture into open water for a memorable island crossing, experiencing the scale and beauty of this ancient volcanic lake from a unique perspective.
Stretch, restore and reset with private yoga sessions, designed to complement your time in the water and help you unwind after each swim.
Stay on a historic Italian castle estate, with a purpose-built yoga studio, swimming pool and peaceful grounds to enjoy between adventures.
Settle into the relaxed rhythm of central Italy, with time to explore beautiful hilltop towns, discover the region’s history and enjoy plenty of local Italian food.

On this YogaSwim retreat, we combine beautiful freshwater swimming with relaxing yoga sessions in the heart of central Italy. Swim through the clear waters of Lake Bolsena, then slow down the pace with evening yoga sessions designed to complement your time in the water. Along the way, we discover the landscapes, history and culture that make this fascinating corner of Italy such a special place to swim and explore.

Formed within an ancient volcanic landscape, Lake Bolsena provides a spectacular setting for our swims. We journey along varied sections of shoreline, passing volcanic beaches and peaceful stretches of countryside, before venturing into more open water to explore the lake’s distinctive islands. With five swims throughout the week, including point-to-point journeys and an exciting island crossing, there’s plenty to discover while still leaving time to relax and enjoy our surroundings.

Away from the water, we experience another side of the region, from historic hilltop towns and local Italian cuisine to the remarkable estate that we call home for the week. Castello di Santa Cristina (Santa Cristina Castle) is a peaceful country retreat surrounded by extensive grounds, providing a wonderfully atmospheric base in which to unwind between swims and explore the slower pace of rural Italian life.

Private yoga sessions complete the experience, taking place in a purpose-built studio within the tranquil surroundings of the castle estate. With one main swim on each swimming day and yoga sessions scheduled for the late afternoon on four days, the itinerary has a relaxed rhythm – combining rewarding open-water swimming with time to stretch, restore and enjoy the Italian countryside.

Who is this trip for?

This trip is designed for swimmers who enjoy yoga, or who want to discover how yoga can naturally complement swimming. With one main swim on each swimming day and yoga sessions in the late afternoon or early evening, the trip offers a relaxed and balanced way to experience open water swimming in the beautiful surroundings of Lake Bolsena.

The freshwater setting may also appeal to swimmers who are newer to open water or who prefer lake swimming to the sea. While the overall daily swim distance is leisurely, each swim is around 3km, so guests should be comfortable swimming this distance before the start of the trip. No prior open water swimming experience is required, although swimmers should be capable of completing the average swim distance comfortably.

The average swim distance is around 3km, covered in one morning swim.

No prior experience of yoga is required.

We have given this trip a ‘Leisurely’ grading, designed for people who want to combine rewarding swimming with yoga, relaxation and time to enjoy the scenery and culture of central Italy.

Why yoga and swimming?

Yoga and swimming are a perfect combination. For swimmers, yoga offers both physical and mental benefits. Yoga increases awareness to breathing, develops strength and increases mobility, especially if you can work yoga into your daily routine. Through meditation, relaxation and stretching, yoga has incredible restorative qualities, relaxing the nervous system and muscular tension. It can help you centre and focus, and to find the perfect rhythm for your swims.

Are you a Pioneer?

We are excited to share our entirely new YogaSwim Lake Bolsena trip for an action-packed 2027 of adventures. Our first departures will be Pioneer Departures. These are perfect for those who want to get out first to experience the relatively unexplored waters that await us. You will have the opportunity to explore the destination in-depth with an amazing group of swimmers, opening our eyes to the possibilities for future trips.

What's included?

Fully guided yoga and swimming holiday
Professional swim guides and full safety escort on all swims (swimmers only)
Yoga practices designed for swimmers (swimmers only)
Experienced yoga instructor
Yoga mat for the duration of the trip
Return transfer from Rome Fiumicino 'Leonardo da Vinci' International Airport (specific times)
Six nights' accommodation
All breakfasts
2 dinners
Full ABTOT Financial Protection

What's not included?

Travel to and from the start of the trip outside of the group transfer
All lunches
4 dinners
Drinks and additional activities (there is an optional cooking experience at the estate)

Group of 5 or more?

If you're travelling with a group of friends, family or swim buddies, speak to our Group Travel team to get tailored advice, special pricing and discounts, and early access to new trips and departures.

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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

After breakfast, a 25-minute transfer takes us to the lakeside town of Bolsena, where we board our boats and head to Grancaro for our first swim.

We enter the clear freshwater and follow the eastern shoreline towards Capanna del Pescatore. This beautiful point-to-point route is our introduction to swimming in this ancient volcanic lake, with the open water on one side and rolling countryside accompanying us along the shore. We finish beside La Capanna del Pescatore, where there’s time for lunch (not included) before travelling back to the castle.

Later that afternoon, we meet for our first private yoga session. After our morning swim, it’s a chance to stretch, restore and settle into the relaxed rhythm of the week.

Day 3

Today we travel by boat to Spiaggia di Gradoli on the northern shore for another rewarding point-to-point swim. From here, we follow the shoreline east towards Giggetto, passing beautiful beaches and quiet stretches of countryside. Our swim finishes at Trattoria da Giggetto restaurant, where we can step out of the water and settle in for a well-earned lakeside lunch (not included).

Back at Castello di Santa Cristina, we take a tour of our remarkable home for the week and learn more about the history and character of the estate. There’s time to relax by the pool afterwards before our second private yoga session.

Day 4

Starting from Giggetto, today’s 3km swim continues along Bolsena’s northern shoreline towards Paradise Beach. We follow the volcanic shore with expansive views across the lake and surrounding hills before finishing beside the beach for lunch (not included).

This afternoon, we travel to one of central Italy’s most impressive towns: Orvieto. Perched dramatically on a plateau of volcanic rock, this historic hilltop town has more than 2,500 years of history, from its Etruscan origins and underground network of caves to the magnificent Gothic cathedral at its heart.

A local guide leads us through the historic centre before there’s time to explore independently, wandering the medieval streets or finding a café to site and watch the world go by.

There’s no yoga today, giving us plenty of time to enjoy Orvieto.

Day 5

Today brings one of the standout swims of the week as we head for Isola Bisentina, the largest of Lake Bolsena’s two islands.

Travelling out by boat, we take to more open water for a memorable swim around this distinctive part of the lake. Our exact route will depend on conditions, but we’ll enjoy fantastic views as we approach Bisentina’s green shoreline. The island has a fascinating history too, with secluded chapels, historic buildings and landmarks including the Church of Saints Giacomo and Cristoforo and the Malta dei Papi.

After lunch (not included), we return to the castle for a relaxed afternoon, with the option to join a cooking experience at the estate (not included, paid for locally). Later, we meet for another private yoga session, providing the perfect opportunity to stretch and unwind after our island adventure.

Day 6

For our final swimming day, we return to Lake Bolsena for another of its most distinctive locations: Isola Martana. Smaller and wilder than neighbouring Bisentina, Martana rises from the southern part of the lake and provides a spectacular focal point for our final adventure in the water.

Travelling out by boat, we begin our swim close to the island and explore its dramatic shoreline, combining sections of open water with wonderful views of Martana and the surrounding lake. After a week of point-to-point journeys and shoreline exploration, this is a fitting finale and a chance to enjoy one last 3km swim through Bolsena's clear freshwater.

Back on board, we make our way to the traditional lakeside town of Marta for lunch at Il Pirata (not included), before returning to the castle. There’s time to enjoy the estate that afternoon before our final private yoga session – a chance to stretch out and reminisce on our week of swimming.

Day 7

Map

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Accommodation

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Castello di Santa Cristina

Castello di Santa Cristina offers a peaceful retreat in the rolling countryside surrounding Lake Bolsena. Set within a historic Italian country estate, its characterful accommodation, extensive grounds and panoramic outdoor pool provide an atmospheric setting in which to relax between swims and yoga sessions.

Trip Information

Location Summary

Bolsena

Set on the eastern shore of the lake, Bolsena is a beautiful historic town where medieval streets and stone buildings rise above a relaxed waterfront. The old town is crowned by the Rocca Monaldeschi fortress, while beaches, gardens and a promenade line the water below. It’s also our gateway to Lake Bolsena, with easy access to its clear freshwater, volcanic shoreline and wide-open views – the perfect starting point for exploring the lake by boat and, of course, by swimming.

Isola Bisentina

Rising from the open waters of Lake Bolsena, Isola Bisentina is the largest of the lake’s two islands and one of its most memorable swimming locations. Its green, wooded shoreline is dotted with secluded coves, gardens, historic churches and chapels, creating a striking destination as we approach from the water. With more openwater swimming and the island ahead as our focal point, Bisentina gives us a completely different perspective on the scale and beauty of the lake.

Orvieto

Perched dramatically on a plateau of volcanic rock above the Umbrian countryside, Orvieto is one of central Italy’s most impressive hilltop towns. Atmospheric medieval streets lead to its magnificent Gothic cathedral, while beneath the historic centre lies an extraordinary network of caves and tunnels dating back to its Etruscan past. With more than 2,500 years of history and sweeping views across the countryside, it’s a fascinating change of pace from our days in the water.

Trip Grading

We have given this trip a ‘Leisurely’ grading designed for people who want to swim at a more relaxed pace and enjoy the scenery.

Swimming Distances

Swim	Distance	Swim	Distance
Grancaro to Capanna del Pescatore	3km	Gradoli to Giggetto	3km
Giggetto to Paradise Beach	3km	Isola Bisentina	3km
Isola Martana	3km

*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.

Month	Water Temperature*	Air Temperature*
July	23-26°C / 73-79°F	18-30°C / 64-86°F

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

Walking Distances

There is a limited amount of walking on this trip, with most walks taking place on recognised paths and tracks. There may be cases where we walk along trails or other unsealed surfaces, and care should be taken in these areas.

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.

Trip Information

Group Size

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

Boat Support

Boat support on this trip includes three inflatable dinghy support vessels, piloted by a local captain and your two SwimTrek guides. Please note that this boat support is subject to change without notice and cannot be guaranteed.

Yoga Practice

After our active day, we’ll unwind our tired bodies and relax with a restorative 1-hour late afternoon yoga class. This practice may include a mix of standing poses (asanas), back or forward bends. All poses are completely optional, and props may be used for support. The practice will develop stability and alignment for the specific muscle groups we will use when swimming, as well as help the mind and body let go and allow you to enter a state of relaxation.

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 supply swim hats, water and electrolyte drinks and refill your bottles throughout the trip.

In addition, please bring:

A small backpack or dry bag to carry a change of clothes (for lunchtime) on the boat
A lightweight microfibre towel/changing robe

Food and Drink

All breakfasts and 2 dinners are included in your trip price. The remaining dinners and lunches (taken at local lakeside restaurants) are at your own expense.

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

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.

GROUP TRANSFER FROM ROME FIUMICINO 'LEONARDO DA VINCI' INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (FCO)

The easiest way to get to the start of your trip is to fly into Rome Fiumicino 'Leonardo da Vinci' International Airport (FCO), where a group transfer will be waiting to take you to your hotel above Lake Bolsena. This transfer is included in your package and will depart Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) at 14:00 on Day 1. If you wish to use this transfer, we recommend booking a flight scheduled to arrive no later than 12:00. The transfer to your accommodation will take around 2 hours.

Your return transfer back to Rome Fiumicino 'Leonardo da Vinci' International Airport (FCO) is also included in your package. This will leave Castello di Santa Cristina at 09:30 on the morning of Day 7. We recommend booking return flights departing no earlier than 15:00 if you wish to use this transfer.

You can also arrange your own private transfer, but please note that this is likely to cost around €200-250 each way, so we recommend arriving in time for the group transfer if possible.

Alternatively, you can travel by train from Rome Fiumicino 'Leonardo da Vinci' International Airport to Orvieto, a journey time of 2 hr 15 min to 3 hr, involving a change of trains at either Rome Termini station or Orte. A transfer/taxi from Orvieto to Castello di Santa Cristina costs approximately €75 and takes a further 50 min.

Arranging a rental car from the airport is another good option, particularly if you are planning to extend your stay in the region. On many days, there will be some free time in the afternoons when you could explore the surrounding area with your own transport.