Our Winter Swimming Adventure in Cyprus: A Saturday Morning Ritual

When most people think of Cyprus, they picture sunny beaches, warm Mediterranean waters, and endless summer days. But for the past two years, a group of us has been embracing the chillier side of the island—winter swimming! Every Saturday morning, come rain or shine, we’ve made it a point to head to the beach in Larnaca for a refreshing dip in the sea, no matter how cold the water gets.

It all started on a whim—someone suggested it as a fun challenge, and we thought, "Why not?" After all, we live in a country where the sun usually shines year-round, so we were used to swimming in the sea. But winter swimming was a whole new adventure. There’s something unique about feeling the cold sting of the water and knowing that it’s the middle of winter.

It wasn’t easy at first. The idea of getting into the sea in temperatures that barely reach double digits might sound crazy to most people, but the benefits soon became clear. The boost in energy, the sense of accomplishment, and the bond we’ve formed as a group have made this a ritual we look forward to every week.

Our routine is simple but enjoyable. We gather at the beach in Larnaca early on Saturday mornings, often with the sun still low in the sky. The sea is calm, and the beach is almost empty—perfect for a peaceful and private swim. There’s something special about the quiet, the crisp air, and the calmness of the Mediterranean that makes the experience feel more tranquil and grounding.

After a brief warm-up, we take the plunge. The cold water takes your breath away at first, but once you’re in, the feeling of invigoration sets in. The shock of the cold water is immediately followed by a wave of exhilaration, and you can’t help but laugh and encourage each other as you swim.

What started as a fun challenge has now become a beloved weekly ritual. There’s something about swimming in winter that connects us with nature in a way that summer swims just can’t replicate. The cold water has a way of sharpening your senses, and the energy it brings lasts long after we leave the beach.

But beyond the physical benefits, there’s also the camaraderie. We’ve built a little community around this activity, and it’s turned into a time to unwind, chat, and simply enjoy each other's company. The cold water and the early hour seem to strip away all the noise of the week, and we’re left with a sense of calm and clarity that stays with us.

After our swim, we head to a local café where we enjoy warm halloumi pie and other delicious pastries—it's the perfect way to warm up after the cold swim! The flavors are comforting, and there's nothing better than sharing these treats with friends, old and new. Over the past two years, we’ve met a lot of amazing people through our weekly swims. It’s become a little community, and we’ve made lasting friendships with fellow winter swimmers and regulars at the café. It’s always great to catch up with everyone and share stories over a cup of coffee.

It might sound like a crazy idea, but winter swimming has its benefits. It boosts circulation, improves your mood, and even strengthens your immune system. There's also the mental strength you develop from overcoming that initial hesitation to jump into cold water. Plus, nothing beats the feeling of walking out of the sea, refreshed and alive, as you take in the stunning winter sunrise.

We’ve been doing this for two years now, and it’s safe to say we’re hooked. It’s become a tradition we can’t imagine living without, and we’re always excited for the next Saturday swim, no matter how cold the water gets.

If you’re ever in Larnaca on a Saturday morning, feel free to join us! The sea is always ready, and we’re always up for a challenge. Plus, there’s always a warm halloumi pie waiting for you afterward.

Until next time—stay warm (or cold, if you're joining us for a swim!).