From Grey to Gold: A Week of Winter Swimming at Bannow Beach

Life has a beautiful way of creating unexpected traditions. What started as a Christmas Day adventure with Helen has blossomed into five consecutive days of morning sea swimming, each day telling its own unique story through Ireland’s ever-changing skies.

🎄 The Christmas Companion

My winter swimming streak began with Helen by my side on Christmas morning. Having a swimming partner – especially one who understands both the thrill and trepidation of cold water – made that first festive dip extra special.

☁️ The Grey Days Quartet

What followed was a quartet of solo swims under Ireland’s characteristic winter skies. Each morning brought its own unique challenge and beauty:

Boxing Day introduced me to the peaceful solitude of solo swimming:

27th December tested my resolve as temperatures continued to drop:

28th December offered a meditative morning in the mist:

🌅 The Golden Finale

Just when I’d grown accustomed to the grey palette of our Irish winter, nature decided to put on a spectacular show. This morning’s swim transformed into something magical as the sun broke through, painting Bannow Beach in hues of amber and gold:

🎥 A Different Perspective

Taking advantage of the perfect conditions, I couldn’t resist capturing a drone orbit shot of this morning’s golden moment. The 360° view really showcases why this stretch of Irish coastline has captured my heart:

💭 Reflections in the Water

Each day brought its own lessons:

• Christmas reminded me that some adventures are better shared
• The grey days taught me about finding beauty in simplicity
• Today showed that patience with Irish weather eventually pays off

🌊 The Technical Side

For those interested in the conditions:

• Water temperature remained surprisingly stable 10°C
• Air temperatures ranged from 14°C to 5°C
• Wind conditions varied but remained manageable