Cíes Islands

The Cíes Islands are a small archipelago in the Atlantic, about fifteen kilometres off the coast of Vigo, closing the mouth of the Ría de Vigo and forming part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, which was created in 2002 to protect the islands and their waters. They are among the most beautiful places in Galicia, and a group of white beaches, clear water, cliffs and green hills that rise sharply from the sea. There are three main islands: Monteagudo, or the North Island, Faro, the Middle Island, and San Martiño, the South Island. The first two are joined by a sandbar and a long, curving beach, and the third is separated by a channel.

The most famous place is the Rodas Beach, a long crescent of fine white sand on the sandbar that links Monteagudo and Faro, with a calm, sheltered lagoon on one side and the open Atlantic on the other. The water is clear and turquoise, though it is cold, and the beach has been called one of the best in the world by international newspapers. Other beaches and coves along the shores are quieter, with rocky points and dunes. Cliffs on the western side, facing the open ocean, are high and dramatic, with waves breaking at their foot.

The islands are a nature reserve of great importance. Large colonies of seabirds nest on the cliffs, among them one of the largest colonies of yellow-legged gulls in the world, as well as cormorants and other species, and dolphins are sometimes seen in the surrounding waters. Rare plants grow in the dunes, and the underwater life attracts snorkellers and divers. Marked trails lead through the islands to viewpoints and to the lighthouse on Faro, with walks that range from short strolls to longer hikes of an hour or more, and the views from the high points take in the whole archipelago and the coast of the mainland.

Access is controlled to protect the environment. Boats run from Vigo, and also from Cangas and Baiona, during the main season, which runs from Easter until the middle of September, and in other months services are limited. Visitor numbers are capped each day, at around two thousand, and a free authorisation must be obtained in advance through the regional authorities, in addition to the ferry ticket, so it is important to book early, especially for summer weekends. Camping is allowed in a limited area, with a booking.

Facilities on the islands are minimal. There is a small restaurant and a camp site, but visitors should bring their own food, water and sun protection, and take all rubbish back with them. Picnics on the beach are a popular tradition, and many people bring local food, such as empanada, a savoury pie, and cheese.

The islands are reached from the Castro Fortress area of Vigo by a short walk to the port. A full day is the best way to enjoy them. Bring a jacket, as the sea breeze can be cool, and a swimsuit for the beaches.