My Journey Through 150 Beach Swims in the Algarve

At 52 years old, I’m diving into this adventure alongside two amazing women, Kamila (50) and Tina (54). Each swim, spanning around 2 kilometers and lasting approximately an hour, is not just a physical challenge but a profound exploration of nature's wonders and the hidden gems of Portugal’s coastline.

Our swims lead us to beaches and coves I’ve never encountered before - some tucked away from the usual tourist trails, each offering its unique charm and beauty. From rugged cliffs and serene coves to vast stretches of golden sand, the Algarve coast reveals itself in an ever-changing panorama that leaves me in awe. The excitement of discovering a new beach and the thrill of the open water make every swim an adventure, a personal victory, and a testament to the invigorating power of the ocean.

We have chosen to start our swims at 8 a.m., a time selected to avoid boats and to experience the sea at its calmest. This early hour not only provides a safer environment but also unveils a richer array of marine life. The water is often glassy and calm, allowing me to observe the underwater world in all its glory. The gentle light of the morning sun enhances the vibrancy of the sea, offering a more intimate and immersive experience. I’ve worked out it will probably take us 1 year to swim them all!

Each swim is an exploration of not just the physical landscape but also the emotional and sensory experiences the sea provides. Sometimes the sea greets us with exhilarating waves that challenge our strength and resilience, creating a thrilling sense of adventure. At other times, the waters are so calm and peaceful it's like swimming through silk floating around us- offering a soothing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There are moments of awe and wonder, where the sheer beauty of the coastline, the play of light on the water, and the rhythm of the waves lift my spirits and fill me with a profound sense of peace.

The Atlantic waters are cold, even in July but are a source of boundless health benefits. These swims not only enhance my physical endurance but also invigorates my entire being. The cold water stimulates circulation, boosts your immune system, and enhances mental clarity. The experience leaves me on a natural high, with a renewed sense of vitality and well-being that lasts a whole day!

One of the most delightful surprises of these 150 beach swims has been encountering an unexpected variety of marine life. Beaches like Centeannes and Praia Da Marinha, visited early before the crowds, offer an underwater experience akin to the Caribbean, especially around the caves. I often find myself swimming alongside a dazzling array of fish, including many different varieties of dourada, sarpa salpa (salema), and the striking corvina (croaker). These encounters make each swim an enchanting dive into the diverse marine ecosystem of the Algarve.

However, not all beaches offer a bustling underwater world. On stretches of pure white sand, like Salgados Beach, marine life is sparse. Yet, these immense sandy expanses hold their own unique beauty, with their endless white dunes and tranquil vistas stretching far into the horizon.

Our journey has not been without its challenges. One memorable adventure occurred near Albandeira Beach when a powerful wave unexpectedly vomited us into a cave! We had initially intended to swim into it but instead found ourselves thrown forcefully becoming temporarily trapped. This unexpected encounter with the Grotte and Algar dos Capitaes cave was both exhilarating and scary - during the tumult, we lost two fins, broke another, lost a facemask and a safety device. Despite these mishaps, the cave’s breathtaking beauty was a reward in itself, showcasing nature’s raw power and grandeur- it is a slightly smaller version of the famous Benagil cave, with the same hole in the roof and stunning beauty, only without the crowds. We managed to brave it back out with all our might and later laughed at the experience.

If you want to follow me for fun, inspiration, or travel insights, I document our swims on YouTube. My husband Robbie captures our adventures with a drone, though early attempts faced challenges with local seagulls, who whilst protecting their young dive bombed him with their excrement! Thankfully, as the chicks grew older and crowds dwindled, we managed to get some stunning aerial footage. I complement Robbie’s drone footage with my own GoPro recordings, offering a comprehensive view of our experiences in the water.

In every swim, I find not just a physical challenge but a profound connection with nature and myself. The Algarve’s beaches, with their stunning beauty and power, offer a unique and inspiring experience that I am privileged to share. From the exhilarating waves and peaceful coves to the rich marine life and hidden coastal paths, every moment in the water is a celebration of life and a testament to the power of the ocean.

Join me as I continue this incredible journey, discovering the wonders of the Algarve’s coastline and celebrating the magic of the sea. It’s an adventure that reminds us all that the ocean’s embrace is a gift—one that heals, revitalises, and inspires us to live life to the fullest.

For a closer look at my journey and the beauty of these remarkable swims, check out my YouTube channel Dive in and experience the wonder of the Algarve with me!

Christianne Wolff is a multi-award winning, best-selling author of The Body Rescue Plan series. She has been writing for the UK national media for the last 30 years, with many appearances on TV and radio and boasting a glittering array of celebrity clients. Christianne offers clean eating plans and local sound baths, cleansing your mind body, and soul. Website www.thebodyrescueplan.com   Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/TheBodyRescuePlan    

Christianne Wolff