The Open Water Circuit in France
Conceived in 2012, OpenSwim Harmonie Mutuelle was created by former swimming champions Stephan Caron, Harald Eltvedt, and Laurent Neuville, alongside Sophie Reinauld, all deeply passionate about building an adventure around the core values of sport and environmental preservation. Driven by a desire to share their passion and revive the legendary “Traversée de Paris à la nage” (the historic Paris swim crossing), they brought urban open-water swimming back into the spotlight.
This 12th edition will stop in 9 cities across France and Switzerland from May through September 2026. The circuit aims to attract more participants than ever to the discipline by offering races tailored to every skill level. It also highlights a growing commitment to clean water awareness, environmental protection, and promoting the massive positive impact of physical activity on overall health and well-being.
Whether you are a seasoned competitor or a passionate amateur, get ready for an unforgettable open-water experience backed by an expert crew.
The 2026 OpenSwim Circuit
May 30 - Lacanau
Events: The Lake Crossing (3.8k) fins/no fins – 500m – 1k – 2k fins/no fins – 4×500m Relay
Heading out to the Landes region for the 3rd edition of OpenSwim Lacanau. Kick off the circuit by swimming right in the heart of Lake Lacanau, surrounded by a stunning natural landscape of calm waters and pine forests. All races start at Grande Escourre beach, except for the Lake Crossing, which kicks off at Port de Lacanau-Ville beach.
June 7 - Cassis
Events: 10k fins/no fins – 5k fins/no fins – 3.5k fins/no fins – 2k fins/no fins – 1k fins/no fins – 500m – 4×500m Relay
Next stop: Cassis, for the 2nd annual collaboration between Cap Naïo and OpenSwim Harmonie Mutuelle. Swim through the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean right beneath the iconic cliffs of the Calanques. A spectacular, one-of-a-kind setting to launch your open-water season.
June 20 - Agde
5,5 K avec et sans palmes – 3 Km avec et sans palmes – 1,3 Km avec et sans palmes – 500 m
Swim down the Hérault river for the 7th edition of OpenSwim Harmonie Mutuelle Agde. This unique crossing connects the Hérault river straight to the Mediterranean Sea, taking you from fresh water to the deep blue. Expect an intense afternoon of open-water swimming in a breathtaking backdrop.
June 27 - Gérardmer
Events: Around the Lake (4.5k) fins/no fins – 500m – 1k fins/no fins – 2.5k fins/no fins – 4×500m Relay
Nestled between lakes, forests, and mountains, the town of Gérardmer welcomes swimmers to a pristine natural sanctuary. Meet us at the nautical base to dive into the largest natural lake in the Vosges mountains!
July 5 - Strasbourg
Events: 2.6k – 3.2k
Experience open-water swimming in the very heart of Strasbourg for the 8th edition of OpenSwim Stras’. Cruise through the city center along the Ill River and discover Strasbourg from a whole new angle, passing historic canals and landmark sites in a truly unique urban setting.
July 11 & 12 - Paris
Events: 5k fins/no fins – 2k fins/no fins – 1k – 500m – 4×500m Relay
Swim right through the capital city for the 12th edition of our Paris event! From the Canal de l’Ourcq on Saturday to the Seine River on Sunday, immerse yourself in a perfect blend of urban heritage and athletic challenge. An exceptional weekend of 100% open-water swimming in the heart of Paris.
July 26 - Lake Geneva-Prangins (Léman-Prangins)
Events: 500m – 1,250m – 2.5k – 5k – 4×500m Relay – 400m Family Swim
Explore the crystal-clear waters of Lake Geneva during an event that features a highly popular family race. Surrounded by majestic mountains and breathtaking landscapes, this race is a true immersion in nature!
August 22 - La Baule
Events: 5k fins/no fins – 2.5k fins/no fins – 1k fins/no fins – 500m – 4×500m Relay
Take on the Atlantic Ocean in an OpenSwim event focused on challenge and fun. Swim in the open ocean, powered by the Atlantic’s energy and the festive, high-spirited race atmosphere.
September 5 & 6 - Lyon
Events: 7k fins/no fins – 5k fins/no fins – 3k fins/no fins – 1.1k fins/no fins – Team Challenge (1.1k)
Come challenge the occasionally choppy waters of the Rhône River, fully backed by top-tier safety supervision every stroke of the way. Two days of open-water racing through the capital of the Gauls to keep the summer vibes going just a bit longer.
No matter where you find yourself this summer, OpenSwim Harmonie Mutuelle offers a lineup of open-water races accessible to everyone. To help you smash your goals, make sure to download the OpenSwim app, our coaches have put together custom workouts tailored perfectly to your level and objectives.
So, ready to take the plunge? Have a great summer, everyone!