Taking a dip in the company of the majestic swans is a favorite pastime for locals and tourists alike in the resort of Edipsos, in Evia, Greece.
Edipsos is a resort town famed for its ancient thermal springs and long history as a healing destination. Visitors had flocked here for centuries, drawn by the therapeutic waters and the promise of rejuvenation.
While they are often associated with freshwater lakes and rivers, many swans, particularly Mute swans and Black swans, can be found in coastal areas, estuaries, and even the open ocean.
Greek Reporter caught a tourist ready to swim at the pebble beach of Edipsos, when, from further out in the bay, four large white swans approached silently. Their feathers were very white against the blue water, and they moved smoothly and gracefully. Their long necks curved elegantly, and their orange beaks, with black tips, seemed to mark their quiet arrival.
Tourist had seen swans on lakes before, but not like this
The tourist stopped, standing in the water, watching them. She had seen swans on lakes before, but not like this – calmly swimming in the sea. They moved together, a perfect group in front of the distant, hazy mountains.
As they got closer, she realized they weren’t just passing by. They seemed to be coming towards her, their dark eyes looking at her. They showed no fear, just a calm curiosity. One, a bit bigger than the rest, lowered its head, sending a small ripple towards her legs.
They stayed for a while, a picture of calm, before turning with the same quiet grace and continuing their survey of the blue waters. The tourist watched them leave, feeling a deep sense of wonder. This was more than just a swim; it was a surprising moment, a reminder of the simple magic that can be found when one is open to the world.
Swans, like many other waterfowl, have specialized glands located near their eyes (called salt glands) that allow them to extract excess salt from their bloodstream. This salt is then excreted through their nostrils, enabling them to drink saltwater without becoming dehydrated.
How about swimming with pigs in Greece?
If swimming with swans is not your cup of tea, how about swimming with pigs? The swimming pigs of Greece have become an internet sensation with dozens of videos posted on TikTok and other social media.
Bathers on the little island of Atokos in the Ionian Sea, next to Ithaca, are for the experience of a lifetime as they swim next to feral pigs who seem to enjoy the human presence. Their natural buoyancy and paddling instincts help them move around in the water.
It is a mystery how the pigs ended up on the uninhabited 4.5 square kilometers island that belongs administratively to Ithaca. It is also part of the Natura 2000 network because of its rich and rare marine life.