The Cascais Swim—also known as the Travessia Lisboa–Cascais 20 km ultra-swim—has emerged as a leading example of environmental stewardship within open water endurance sports. Organized under the Ultra-Marathon Swim Series, the event is rooted in its purpose: promoting healthy living immersed in nature, while actively committing to marine preservation and ecological sustainability.
Located along the scenic Portuguese coastline, the race not only challenges swimmers’ endurance over 20 km but also mobilizes communities around the importance of protecting coastal ecosystems. The Cascais Swim sets itself apart by integrating sustainability into its ethos—not merely as a marketing angle but as the core of its mission to inspire respect for marine life and reduce environmental impact.
Through initiatives that prioritize reducing pollution, embracing eco-conscious programming, and using the sport as a vehicle for environmental education, the Cascais Swim demonstrates how open water events can both challenge athletes and nurture the ecosystems they traverse. It is a compelling model for how sporting events can leave a positive legacy.
