23ª Prova de Mar de Lagoa - Jorge Lamy

Legend has it that the Shrine of Our Lady of the Incarnation, perched high above the cliffs of Carvoeiro, was once the only beacon for sailors navigating these jagged shores. Before the 1670 fort was established, its cupola served as a vital landmark, guiding vessels past the unpredictable currents of the Algarve coast. Today, that same clifftop silhouette serves as a spectator for swimmers during the Prova de Mar de Lagoa – Jorge Lamy, held annually in the heart of August. As you prepare to enter the water, you are following a history marked by both faith and resilience, including the deep scars left by the 1755 Lisbon earthquake that once leveled the region's original coastal fortifications.

The water and the route

Swimming at Praia Carvoeiro offers more than just a standard circuit. As you push forward, the limestone cliffs of the coastline begin to tower above, revealing the intricate grottoes of Algar Seco, where constant wave erosion has carved natural water-spouts directly into the rock. It is common to spot pods of up to 12 bottlenose dolphins patrolling these waters, and in rare instances, even larger marine visitors have been reported by local fishermen. The seabed, visible through the water, is a constant companion during the swim. If you find yourself needing to catch your breath near the nearby Carvalho Beach, you will see the famous diving stairs carved directly into the rock face—a local tradition where swimmers climb six meters up the cliff to leap back into the sea.

Race day logistics

Organized by the Lagoa Académico Clube, this event is a key stop on both the National Open Water Circuit and the Algarve Open Water Circuit. The 2026 edition, scheduled for August 9th, offers distances ranging from a 200m youth event to the 2,000m official race for experienced swimmers. Because this event functions as a competitive stage for the national circuit, the organization is strict: no registrations are accepted on the day of the race. For those looking to complete their summer in the Algarve, the Algarve Alvor Circuit takes place just one day earlier, on August 8th, while those seeking a later-season challenge will find the 20th Albufeira Open Water Race held on August 22nd. Whether you are aiming for a podium finish or participating in the 600m open category, the swim remains a test of endurance against the backdrop of one of Portugal’s most dramatic maritime landscapes.