Inspiration • March 2015
Six adventurous ways to get out on the water
From wild swimming in Croatia to discovering marine grottoes in Sardinia, Content Editor of The Club, Hannah Hudson, finds the best ways to dip your toe in the water
Wild swimming in Croatia
Who needs a pool when you have Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast and the Mediterranean’s clear waters? Strel Swimming was founded by marathon swimmer Martin Strel. The team leads open-water tours for all levels, allowing you to explore the coastlines of uninhabited islands, swim down the Krka River and take a dip in a waterfall. Non-swimmers can follow alongside in kayaks.
Scuba diving in Mykonos
The Aegean Sea has spectacular underwater scenery, including rock walls and canyons. Dive trips give you an up-close look at history – watch out for two-handled pots from ancient Greece, plus modern-day wrecks. Kalafati Dive Center has various diving courses, and provides digital cameras and kit for young enthusiasts.
Waterfall climbing in Dalaman
Saklikent Gorge (above) is the second-largest gorge in Europe and the longest and deepest in Turkey. Take a two-hour trek along waterside walkways and paddle through the shallow river. Further up, discover the ‘shower cubicle’ where you can stand in a cutting in the rock under a stream of water. There’s also the option of a second short climb – up a waterfall. Ropes (and some climbing experience) are essential. Fethiye Tours runs day trips.
Go fishing in Santorini
This southern Aegean island is an angler’s dream. With Santorini Fishing Tours you can sail around the caldera while learning techniques used by local fishermen. Expect to catch tuna, pickerels and saddled breams. Snorkelling equipment is provided.
Hot spring swimming in Kos
This Greek island’s most famous seafront, Paradise Beach (pictured), has a volcano on neighbouring Nisyros Island to thank for its local nickname, Bubble Beach. Not far off the coastline, bubbles can be spotted rising from the seabed formed by rising volcanic gases. The sweet swimming spot is just off the coast to the left of the watersports area. Paddle towards the black buoy, about 200 metres from the coast, until it starts to feel like a bubble bath. Stay at the Kefalosbay Residence, a short drive away.
Discover marine grottoes in Sardinia
Named after a rare Mediterranean monk seal, the Grotta del Bue Marino can be reached by boat from the town of Cala Gonone. You’ll find centuries-old stalactites and stalagmites, lit up to dramatic effect, and spot Neolithic graffiti in the form of dancing figures carved into its walls. Trips to the cave can be booked with Escursioni Cala Gonone.
This article has been tagged Adventure, Destination