Sea— Croatia

Faros maraton

Distances: 1.5km and 3km
Awaiting confirmation of the next edition

About the race

The Faros Marathon is a long-distance swimming competition held since 1976 in the Stari Grad Bay. Starting at the New Kabal Cape, it has grown from a provincial competition to a world-class event, becoming the first Croatian sports manifestation to enter the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame in 2012.

Course

3 km

3000m course consisting of 2 laps of 1500m each. Counterclockwise direction. Start from the sea. Course marked by 4 yellow turning buoys, 2 white guiding buoys, and 2 red triangular finish buoys. Split timing point between buoys 3 and 4.

Awards

  • Age group awards

Absolute category (M/W) receives trophies, medals, gift packages, and cash prizes. Age categories (up to 15, 16-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+) receive medals for top 3. Special prizes for youngest/oldest and 'Best on Hvar Island'.

Previous editions

How to get there

Stari Grad is accessible via ferries and catamarans. Detailed information is available in the dedicated section of the official website.

Where to stay

Stari Grad offers a blend of traditional stone houses converted into boutique guesthouses and family-run apartments near the harbor. For those preferring a more rustic setting, campsites are available along the nearby bays, though they fill quickly during the late spring season. Expect to pay between 80 EUR and 180 EUR per night for a double room in the town center, depending on proximity to the starting area at Novo Riva. Booking in advance is necessary as the town's compact historical layout limits total capacity.

Things to do nearby

Beyond the water, the island is defined by its agricultural heritage and coastal exploration. Visitors can participate in guided tastings of local Hvar wines and olive oils in the ancient Stari Grad Plain, or rent kayaks to explore the secluded coves where motorized vessels are prohibited. For those interested in history, a walk to the ruins of the Glavica and Purkin Kuk forts offers a perspective on the strategic importance of the harbor from the surrounding hills, providing a panoramic view of the race course below.

Swimmers

Comments

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