ZÊZERE SWIMRUN

Zêzere Swimrun takes place around the Castelo de Bode Dam in central Portugal, near the end of summer. Since 2017, it has utilized the dam’s combination of freshwater swimming, hilly trails, and frequent transitions between swimming and running. The event provides multiple race distances: a 24.7 km Standard race featuring 3.6 km of swimming, 21.1 km of running, and six swim-run segments. Shorter Sprint and Experience distances offer a more accessible introduction to the same environment. The course traces the contours of the Grande Rota do Zêzere near the villages of Fontes and Souto, concluding at the Aldeia do Mato river beach. Environmental factors are significant: water temperatures typically range from 20 to 23 C, air temperatures can reach 28 C, and exposed areas may feel warmer in the sun. The dam’s freshwater offers less buoyancy than saltwater, requiring consistent technique alongside endurance during the swims. This event suits participants who appreciate technical trail running, open-water swimming, elevation changes, and the cadence of repeated discipline shifts.