X-WATERS Sevan Open Water Camp

X-WATERS is an international open water swimming organisation that runs swim camps and competitive events at distinctive high-altitude and open water locations worldwide. Their Sevan Open Water Camp uses Lake Sevan — the largest lake in the Caucasus at 1,950 metres elevation — as a training environment for a six-day residential programme each August.

The camp combines morning open water training sessions with afternoon excursions into the surrounding highlands. Previous programmes have included guided hikes to mountain viewpoints, visits to lakeside and hilltop monasteries such as Sevanavank, and cultural introductions to Armenian history and cuisine. The competitive component is a single organised open water swim with measured distances. Camp capacity is limited to ensure a small-group experience with coaching access.

Who it is for

The camp is aimed at adult open water swimmers with existing experience in outdoor swimming rather than absolute beginners. Lake Sevan’s water temperature in August is typically 18-22°C — cold enough to require acclimatisation for those used to pool temperatures, but manageable with a wetsuit if preferred. The altitude adds a cardiovascular element that swimmers from lower elevations should factor into their preparation. The camp is not a race camp in the competitive sense — the focus is on technique, environment, and experience rather than racing performance.

Booking and logistics

Registration and full pricing are available via the X-WATERS website. Accommodation is included in the camp package, typically at a lakeside facility near Sevan town. Yerevan is around 65 km from Lake Sevan — one hour by car — and has the nearest international airport, Zvartnots. Most participants arrive through Yerevan and travel to the lake on the first day of the camp. August is the warmest and busiest month at the lake; book flights and any pre- or post-camp Yerevan accommodation well in advance. See our Armenia in August guide for broader context on visiting during this month.