The 2nd Cholomon Mount Ice Swimming Event:
History Was Made in Halkidiki
Highlights of the 2nd Ice Swimming Event
A huge success in 2026!
Relive the excitement from Taxiarchis Dam with a summary of this year’s greatest milestones:
Official Recognition and a NEW standard
Taxiarchis Dam’s recognition and the addition in the official IISA ice swimming course put Halkidiki on the world map of ice swimming.
Record Participation
Over 60 fearless swimmers—our highest turnout yet and a bold step for the ice swimming in Greece!
Elite performance
Three athletes officially classified in the challenging 1Km distance, 2 of them made the achievement in our 2nd Ice Swimming Event this year
Breaking Barriers
An inspiring first — Our special guests, para-swimmer Nicola Doran, completing a course over 1 mile (1700m), while her coach, Ger Kennedy, completed his 20th ice mile (20x1609m), entering again in the Guinness World Records!
Top class hospitality choices with special rates
Halkidiki offers everything the sophisticated tourist will expect: luxury and comfort, fine traditional houses converted into hotels, winter chalets, friendly family hotels offering the ideal setting for a memorable weekend.
A vivid local community
The event is supported by the Municipality of Polygyros. The Halkidiki community is ready to welcome you for an adventure that blends sport, nature, and culture in one of Greece most stunning regions.
A significant milestone has been reached
Stronger community, Bigger event!
Event Venue: Apolimeni Petra / Taxiarchis Dam
The 2nd event was hosted in the Apolimeni Petra hotel, an excellent destination in Cholomon, Halkidiki. It was also the first time that the Taxiarchis Dam was used for swimming.
Great participation
Ice swimmers from Greece and abroad joined us in Halkidiki. The presence of elite Irish athletes, including Ger Kennedy and Nicole Doran, was a testament to friendship, inspiration, and the passion behind ice swimming.
A warming weekend in the heart of winter
We are enjoying our loved sport with responsibility and care. Our agenda includes seminars and introductory courses, cultural events, and nature-loving activities.
With the support of our friends
Promo Spot
Municipality of Polygyros
Sarah Najera
Ice Swimmer
Ram Barkai
IISA President
Get Ready for 2027!
Step 1: Mark your calendar
Free your calendar during the first weeks of 2027 (mid-Jan, mid-Feb). Exact date to be announced
Step 2: Get Ready to swim
Take care of your health, enjoy swimming at your own pace and have your swimming gear ready.
Step 3: Plan your trip to Halkidiki
Make your plans, invite your loved ones and prepare for a great weekend
Enjoy!
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Dive into the following questions to learn more about the event.
Do I need to be a winter swimmer?
Ice swimming is not a sport for the untrained or casual swimmer. Being a winter swimmer is helpful, as you will have experience with the cold water. Please ensure that you are in proper physical condition to try. Our event is not competitive, and we welcome both newcomers and experienced swimmers.
Do you have age limits?
No, but please check your physical condition. As with all sports, a proper checkup is needed.
Are there any risks to my health?
If the swimmer has not monitored his physical conditions, ice swimming can cause hypothermia, cold shock, and other issues. Please consult your doctor.
Have you announced the 3rd event?
Not yet, but chances are high that the event will take place in the first weeks of 2027, most probably between Jan 15, Feb 15
Can I join you only on the swimming day?
During our first two events, we scheduled a two-day program with activities and opportunities for networking and spending time as a community. It's highly recommended that you attend both days. If you live in Thessaloniki, you may leave the event venue on Saturday afternoon and return on Sunday morning.
I have some more questions, how can I contact you?
Please use the Contact Us form, and we will respond as soon as possible.