Most British holidaymakers are familiar with the popular Balearic and Canary Islands, such as Tenerife, Lanzarote, Majorca, and Ibiza. However, there is a lesser-known archipelago just off the coast of mainland Spain that remains largely undiscovered by tourists.
The Cíes Islands, consisting of Monteagudo, Do Faro, and San Martiño, are located a short 45-minute ferry ride from Vigo in northwestern Spain. These islands offer a unique experience with their pristine beaches and untouched landscapes.
Visitors to the Cíes Islands will find minimal facilities, including a small shop and a few restaurants, as the islands are mainly uninhabited. The serene environment attracts day-trippers who enjoy hiking between the islands on rugged trails and admiring the unspoiled coastline.
During peak seasons like Easter through May and September, the daily visitor limit is set at 1,800, requiring advance permits for ferry travel. Outside peak times, only 450 visitors are allowed each day to maintain the islands’ exclusivity.
The islands’ picturesque Rodas beach, connecting Monteagudo and Do Faro, has been recognized as the world’s best beach by The Guardian. Known as the “Maldives or Seychelles of Spain,” the Cíes Islands offer stunning white sands and turquoise waters, creating an idyllic paradise for nature lovers.
Popular activities on the islands include scenic walks along the coastal trails and opportunities for scuba diving to explore the rich underwater marine life. As part of the Islas Atlánticas National Park, the islands are home to protected wildlife, requiring permits for diving and carefully controlled visitor numbers.
For those seeking a longer stay, a charming campsite overlooking the lagoon provides camping facilities with breathtaking ocean views. Visitors can enjoy stargazing without light pollution and have the beaches to themselves after day-trippers depart.
Camping Islas Cíes offers essential amenities, including a snack bar, heated showers, and a children’s club for entertainment. Additionally, kayaking and snorkelling excursions can be arranged to enhance the island exploration experience.
While Monteagudo and Do Faro have regular ferry services, accessing the southernmost island, San Martiño, requires hiring a private boat. Despite the logistical challenge, the tranquil and pristine sandy shores of San Martiño offer a Caribbean-like escape worth the effort for those seeking a secluded paradise.
