Sea— Spain

La Radikal

Oct 9, 2026
Distances from 50m to 7km
17th edition

About the race

Radikal is one of the most exciting and fun experiences in open water, celebrating its 17th edition in the privileged setting of the Costa Brava, between Llafranc and Calella de Palafrugell. The event combines high-level sporting challenges, such as the assault on the Illes Formigues, with a festive atmosphere that includes activities for the whole family, popular breakfasts, and a closing party.

Barcelona
Barcelona · Photo: Sergi Larripa (User:SergiL) · CC BY-SA 3.0

Safety is a fundamental pillar of the race, featuring a large deployment of kayaks, support boats, and the Radikal Angel Swimmers, who accompany the swimmers throughout the entire course. It is an event committed to innovation and experience, having hosted more than 14,000 swimmers throughout its editions.

Sources: Barcelona · Torre del Reloj (Barceloneta) · Ictíneo II

Course

50 m

5 rounds of 50m elimination race in Llafranc.

400 m

Events from 50 to 400 meters in Llafranc.

600 m

Relay race for 4 participants, each swimming one lap of the Llafranc bay (600m).

2 km

Coastal course between Calella de Palafrugell and Llafranc.

3.5 km

Round-trip course from Llafranc Beach towards Calella de Palafrugell and back to Llafranc.

7 km

Mass start at Port Bo Beach (Calella de Palafrugell), 2.5K coastal stretch to Cap de Planes, 1K offshore towards Illes Formigues, 3.5K open water to Llafranc.

Awards

Last Standing: The top finishers (male and female) will receive a grand prize. Master category for each gender (30+ years old) and wetsuit-free rules.

Aid stations

Initial and final aid stations provided for all crossings.

Previous editions

How to get there

Accommodation available at partner hotels in the municipality of Palafrugell (Aparthotel Arrels d’Empordà, Hotel Terramar, Hotel Llafranch, etc.).

Where to stay

Llafranc and Calella de Palafrugell offer a mix of traditional fishermen-style houses, boutique hotels overlooking the port, and coastal apartments. Visitors can find accommodation ranging from intimate family-run guesthouses to higher-end seaside hotels. Prices during the race weekend typically fluctuate between 120 EUR and 250 EUR per night depending on proximity to the beachfront. Booking in advance is highly recommended due to the popularity of the Costa Brava during the summer months and the specific demand generated by the event's logistics.

Things to do nearby

The weekend offers a variety of experiences beyond the water. Participants often explore the historic Camino de Ronda, a coastal path offering scenic hiking routes between the two towns. The area is also known for its local wine tastings and Mediterranean cuisine, particularly fresh seafood caught daily by local boats. For those interested in active recovery, kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available in Llafranc, allowing for a different perspective of the coves and rocky inlets that define this stretch of the Catalan coastline.

Swimmers

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