From hidden coves to dramatic rocky outcrops. Credit: Carsten Medom Madsen / Shutterstock.com
After a five-year hiatus, the Circuit d’Aigües Obertes de la Marina Alta returns to the shores of the comarca, promising a season of competitive open water swimming that celebrates both athleticism and a sense of local belonging. The eighth edition of the circuit kicks off on Saturday 15 June in Benissa, with the much-loved Travessia Entre Cales, and continues throughout the summer across six coastal towns.
The initiative is spearheaded by the Xarxa Esportiva de la Marina Alta, a regional sports network committed to strengthening local identity through sport. “Our aim is to offer an engaging and ongoing competition for open water swimming enthusiasts, while continuing to build a shared regional identity,” explains Sergi Brogniez, president of the Xarxa.
Unlike a standard competition, this circuit is designed as a collaborative effort between the Xarxa and the individual municipalities and local clubs that host each swim. The idea is to preserve the unique character of every event while weaving them into a cohesive whole. Each race maintains its own rules and registration process, but those who opt to enter the full circuit gain access to exclusive benefits. These include priority registration — 48 hours ahead of general public access — along with a commemorative welcome pack and a final gift for anyone who completes at least four of the six races.
The full 2025 calendar is as follows:
- Benissa – 15 June: Travessia Entre Cales
- Javea – 29 June: the circuit’s classic swim
- Denia – 13 July: Travessia de les Rotes (second edition)
- Moraira – 3 August: Travessada al Port de Moraira (29th edition)
- Denia – 6 September: second race in the town
- Calpe – 21 September: Volta al Penyal d’Ifac, the circuit finale
From hidden coves to dramatic rocky outcrops, the circuit makes full use of the Marina Alta’s varied and breathtaking coastline. It is open to swimmers aged 18 and over (by the end of 2025) and features four age categories: Sènior (up to 39), Veterans (40–49), Màster (50–59) and Màster Plus (60 and above).
Alongside individual prizes for the top three swimmers overall — and within each category and gender — the circuit also rewards the three best-performing teams.
More details, including full rules and how to register, are available on the official Xarxa Esportiva website, under the section dedicated to the Circuit d’Aigües Obertes.
For swimmers drawn to crystal-clear waters and a shared passion for endurance, this is more than a sporting challenge — it’s a celebration of the Marina Alta’s coastal soul.
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