When the temperature soars, the quickest path to release from the heat can often be a dip in the nearest body of water. Those who consider swimming that one activity that makes any summer vacation complete might wish to take part in some of these upcoming events promising iconic backdrops, camaraderie and bragging rights, with or without a healthy dose of competition.

Juoksengi, Sweden: Swim the Arctic Circle is an open-water swimming competition that takes place in a river that forms the border between Sweden and Finland. The chilly temperature of the Torne River, in Lapland, adds to the challenge of these two races staged in a village that’s home to some 300 residents. The 2000-meter race, held in the daytime hours, starts at a beach north of the Arctic Circle and crosses the Finnish border before returning to the finish at the Swedish shore. The 3,000-meter race starts from the Finnish shore just after midnight, crosses the Swedish-Finnish border, Arctic Circle, and a time zone, which allows all participants who complete the distance in under 55 minutes to claim they’ve completed the race the day before it began. Organizers recommend the use of wetsuits and safety buoys. The races, capped to a max of 150 swimmers per start, take place July 15. Entry fees are 1,200 Swedish Krona ($111.35) for the 2,000-meter and 2,000 Swedish Krona for the 3,000-meter race. Online: swimac.eu/en

Zurich, Switzerland: The annual Limmatschwimmen, or Limmat Swim, takes swimmers on a course along the river running through the heart of this pretty city. In order for the race to take place, the depth and temperature of the water must be within certain parameters, and the day must hold minimal risk of thunderstorms. Should these conditions not be met on Aug. 19, the race will be postponed until Aug. 26. Places in this swim that's capped at 4,500 participants will be put up for sale online at 5 p.m. Aug. 16; these have always tended to sell out quickly. The cost of participation with one’s own dry-sack is 22 Swiss Francs, or about $24.60. Online: limmatschwimmen.ch

Istanbul, Turkey: Taking part in the Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swim gives participants an unusual claim to fame: they can say they have swum from Asia to Europe. Once a year, shipping traffic in the normally bustling Istanbul Strait is brought to a halt, allowing thousands of strong open water swimmers to traverse the body of water that connects the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. The 6.5 km course starts from Kanlica on the Asian side of the Bosphorus and ends in Kuruçesme, on its European end. The race is so popular that the number of applicants greatly exceeds the approximately 2,200 spots available. The 35th edition of this sold-out race is slated for Aug. 20. Those hoping to take part in future editions can learn about the application process, race rules and conditions at bogazici.olimpiyat.org.tr/en. Another possible route to participation is to apply through SwimTrek, a British travel agency specializing in swim vacations.

Copenhagen, Denmark: Once a year in late summer, swimmers are allowed to swim in the usually off-limits canals of the Danish capital. On Aug. 25-26, the Danish Swimming Federation invites city residents and tourists alike to take part in swims of various distances around the Parliament building. Events include the 2,000-meter Copenhagen Swim By Night, a social swimming event in which swimmers are equipped with LED lights on their swim buoys, slated for 8 p.m. Aug. 25. The races to be held Aug. 26 include 2,000-meter races, with separate events for both elite and recreational swimmers and a 10,000 meter long distance race, along with a relay race to be completed by teams of four. Those new to the sport of open water swimming can also opt for a 1,000 meter-course. The race is open to all swimmers age 15 or older. The cost of entry to the 2,000-meter individual recreational swim, for example, is 525 Danish Krone, or about $77. Online: copenhagenswim.com/en

Poreč, Croatia: The "Porečki delfin" is a swimming challenge open to all comers. Participants swim along a marked trail through the sea while enjoying pretty views of the old town. As the trail hugs the coast, friends and family can follow and cheer on their swimmers for most of the way. Distances include the 1,500-meter Bronze Dolphin, the 3,000-meter Silver Dolphin and the 5,000-meter Golden Dolphin. Participants can swim any stroke and use aids including fins, masks, swimming boards and air mattresses. There are no age restrictions, although those under 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The challenge can be started between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Sept. 2. The 20-euro registration fee includes a hot meal, water, fruit, T-shirt and a medal. This can be paid online or from 8 a.m. on the day itself. Online: poreckidelfin.com/en

Montenegro: The distance of the swimming challenge named Ultra Swim 33.3 is significant: its length reflects that of the English Channel. Following a successful test event held in September of 2022, the race makes up part of the newly-launched UltraSwim 33.3 global series, set to kick off in Montenegro on Sept. 29. The race unfolds over four days, in a point-to-point open water ‘off-road’ timed challenge format. Participants can choose from solo, duo or four-person team formats and three different packages offering various levels of service. The price for one swimmer at the most basic level of support comes in at 1,350 euros, inclusive of accommodation. The Lazure Hotel & Marina on the Kotor Bay in Herceg Novi serves as race headquarters. Online: ultraswim333.com