The Forty Foot

The Forty Foot, located in Sandycove near Dublin, is one of Ireland’s most iconic and historically significant swimming spots. This rocky promontory overlooking Dublin Bay has attracted swimmers for over two centuries, becoming an integral part of the city’s cultural and social fabric. Its fame is not only due to the cold and invigorating waters but also to its rich history and the traditions surrounding it. Originally, the Forty Foot was exclusively reserved for men, and for over 250 years it was a place where men could swim naked in complete freedom. This exclusivity was so deeply rooted that even James Joyce mentioned it in his famous novel “Ulysses.” In the early pages of the book, the character Buck Mulligan dives into the cold waters of the Forty Foot, thus immortalizing the site in the collective imagination. Joyce described the place as a “gentlemen’s bathing place,” a refuge for men seeking direct contact with nature and a moment of leisure away from prying eyes.However, the history of the Forty Foot underwent a significant change in 1974. That July, a group of women’s rights activists organized a protest to challenge the ban on women’s access. This demonstration, conducted with determination and courage, marked the beginning of a social change that gradually led to the site being opened to swimmers of both sexes. Women dove into the icy waters, openly defying social conventions and achieving a success that transformed the Forty Foot into an inclusive place, open to all.Today, the Forty Foot is frequented by men, women, and children, becoming a meeting point for swimmers of all ages and skill levels. The tradition of the Christmas swim is particularly popular: every year, on Christmas Day, hundreds of people gather to plunge into the icy waters of the Irish Sea, wearing Christmas costumes and braving the winter temperatures. This event has become a rite of passage for many Dubliners and also attracts numerous tourists, curious to participate or simply to observe this unique tradition. From a geographical perspective, the Forty Foot offers a breathtaking spectacle. Located at the southern end of Dublin Bay, the rocky promontory juts out into the sea, offering panoramic views of the coast and the marine horizon. The wild nature of the place, with its cliffs and tumultuous waters, adds an element of adventure to the swimming experience. It is not uncommon to see seals approaching swimmers curiously, adding a touch of magic to this already special place.