The Respiralia Swimming Tour: A Formentera Adventure Supporting Cystic Fibrosis

The Respiralia Swimming Tour Around Formentera is more than a physical challenge; it’s an inspiring journey of hope, resilience, and unity. Organized by the Respiralia Foundation, this annual event brings together swimmers, volunteers, and supporters to raise awareness and funds for those living with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) while showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Formentera.
What Is the Respiralia Swimming Tour?
Each year, the Respiralia Foundation hosts its signature event: a three-day swim around the island of Formentera. This is a unique challenge with around 240 participants swimming in stages around Formentera over three days, experiencing open sea swimming in the crystal clear, turquoise waters and enjoying the spectacular coastline which surrounds the beautiful island of Formentera.

Why Is the Respiralia Swimming Tour Around Formentera Unique?
- Open to swimmers of all levels, it promotes inclusivity and teamwork.
- This is not a race—swimmers are supported by kayaks, jet skis, and motorboats for added safety.
- A large mother ship provides a haven for rest and nourishment after each stage.
- Physiotherapists, nurses, and doctors are on board to address any health issues that arise.
How the Event Supports the Cystic Fibrosis Community
The Respiralia Foundation is a charity dedicated to improving the lives of those with Cystic Fibrosis, (CF) in the Balearic Islands. This genetic condition, which primarily affects the respiratory and digestive systems, requires intensive management, including regular physiotherapy.
Proceeds from the event directly fund:
- Physiotherapy and other treatments for CF patients.
- Research aimed at advancing care and finding a cure.
- Educational initiatives that improve public understanding of the disease.
Each swimmer contributes to these efforts, turning every stroke into a step toward brighter futures for those with CF.

How Respiralia Positions Formentera as a Destination with Purpose
- Respiralia highlights Formentera’s natural beauty, whilst promoting responsible tourism.
- It enhances community engagement by bringing together locals, visitors, and the Balearic CF community in a spirit of friendship and unity.
- The event also positions Formentera as a destination with purpose, offering meaningful, active experiences that support worthy causes, as well as being an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday.
Why This Event Matters
This event is much more than a swimming challenge – it’s a celebration of life, hope and a testament to:
- Human Resilience: A celebration of determination and the ability to overcome challenges together.
- Community Spirit: Showcasing the transformative power of working together for a shared cause.
- Hope for the Future: Supporting the relentless pursuit of better treatments and brighter futures for the cystic fibrosis community.

Astbury Formentera: Proud Supporters of Respiralia
At Astbury Formentera, we are committed to supporting the Respiralia Swimming Event and its mission. As long-term sponsors, we’ve donated kayaks used to ensure swimmer safety, and our logo appears on every one of them. Our founder, John Astbury, has participated in the swim every year for the past twenty years.

‘Every Breath You Take, Every Move you Make – Support Respiralia’
We hope this article has inspired you to visit Formentera not only to experience its stunning beauty but also to take part in an event that makes a meaningful difference. To learn more about the Respiralia Foundation, how you can contribute, and get involved, visit https://www.respiralia.org/.