Cimento d'la Merla

A plunge into the icy waters of Lake Orta

The Cimento d'la Merla is the most anticipated winter event on the shores of Lake Orta, in the town of Orta San Giulio, in the province of Novara (Piedmont). Every year, during the so-called "days of the blackbird", dozens of swimmers gather at the Canottieri Lake Orta beach to dive into the freezing lake, braving temperatures that often drop between 5 and 8 degrees Celsius.

The tradition of the "days of the blackbird"

According to Italian folklore, the last three days of January—the 29th, 30th, and 31st—are the coldest of the entire year and are known as the "days of the blackbird". The event takes its name from this legend, transforming the harshest moment of winter into an occasion for celebration, courage, and community. Over the years, the collective plunge has become a true identity ritual for the Cusio region.

Organizers

The event was founded in 2011 by the Anatre Selvagge group, the "crossers and swimmers" of Lake Orta, and is organized in collaboration with the Canottieri Lago d'Orta and ADMO (the Bone Marrow Donor Association). Participation is open to everyone: all you need is a bit of courage and a desire to join in, from the youngest participants to the veterans who show up every year.

Sport, fun, and charity

• Gathering of participants takes place in the morning, ahead of the collective noon plunge.
• After the swim, covered changing rooms and hot showers are available to warm up.
• Registration is free: organizers simply require a quick online form to facilitate management.
• The day concludes with the Swimmer's Lunch, with proceeds donated to ADMO's activities.

Why participate

The Cimento d'la Merla is much more than a simple cold-resistance test: it is a festive moment that draws participants and onlookers from across the Lake Orta region and beyond. Amidst cheers, laughter, and applause, the plunge into the icy waters becomes a collective act that blends a passion for winter swimming with a concrete charitable cause. Even those who don't feel like diving can soak up the unique atmosphere of the day, admiring the village of Orta San Giulio in its winter attire, one of the most evocative sights in Piedmont.