Winter swimming has its own dedicated festival in Cyprus and soon its second edition will take place. Happening at Makronissos Beach in Ayia Napa, the festival will welcome local and international winter swimmers ready to take the waves on January 19.

President of the Ayia Napa Winter Swimmers Club Andreas Larkou said that following the success of the first edition (with 204 registered swimmers) last January, the club members and Ayia Napa Municipality decided it was time to take the next step and open up the registration to swimmers from abroad, turning it into an international event.

Its date was picked as around January 20, when Cyprus experiences the Halcyon Days with weather tending to be warmer than usual. Larkou also shared that one of the objectives of the club is to help create the conditions that Ayia Napa and the whole island become an all-year-round tourist destination.

“We want to stress the importance of promoting Cyprus’ natural wealth, the sea, abroad, and the beautiful weather conditions that visitors can enjoy all year round,” Ayia Napa Mayor Christos Zanettou added, drawing attention to the fact the tourism season can become year round.

The upcoming festival will include more activities than swimming. They include a tai-chi class which was a big hit last edition, a special area for children, a Stand Up Paddling exhibition, a sail-by of sailboats and a market selling swimming and beach-related items. The full programme is expected to be announced soon on the Ayia Napa Winter Swimmers Club Facebook page.

2nd International Ayia Napa Winter Swimmers Festival

Winter swimming festival with participants from Cyprus and abroad. January 19. Makronissos beach, Ayia Napa. Tel: 99-678132