Head to Ireland for the ultimate wild swimming challenge

The Great Gaelforce Swim Trilogy is a unique opportunity to swim the mighty River Shannon, mystical Lough Derg and fabulous Killary Fjord in three exhilarating events in May, July and September.

The first event (18 May) invites swimmers to take to the waters near Lanesborough, County Longford, in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, where the River Shannon meets picturesque Lough Ree, the lake of kings. This is a place of beauty and legend.

On 13 July, Lough Derg, County Clare, is the setting for the second event. The lough is dotted with islands and is ideal for all kinds of watersports. Out of the water there are fabulous walking and hiking trails along its shores while ancient monuments can be visited on the islands.

The final event in the swim trilogy takes place on 14 September at Killary Fjord, County Galway, on the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way. This is the chance to plunge into Atlantic waters that are overlooked by the stunning mountains of Connemara.
 

A choice of three distances for each event makes them suitable for most abilities, although some open water swimming experience is essential. All events can be completed with or without a wetsuit, but the chilly Irish waters make a wetsuit a good choice.

At the end of each event, participants will enjoy hot food and drinks, including a warming Irish whiskey, as well as music and craic at the finish line.

You can sign up for one, two or all three events. Those who choose to do the trilogy will get free branded merchandise as a souvenir of their participation.

The Great Gaelforce Swim Trilogy is one of a number of Gaelforce challenges that take place in some of the most scenic locations in Ireland. They include Gaelforce West, a 68km run, kayak and cycle adventure through the dramatic Connemara landscape.

Less arduous challenges are the 10k runs at Bray and Howth overlooking beautiful Dublin Bay, while for something a bit different, the Turf Warrior challenge is an epic battle through 7km of Connemara bog.

www.ireland.com