The Cíes Islands
The Cíes archipelago is located just off Vigo’s estuary (Ría de Vigo) in the province of Pontevedra. There are three main islands and other smaller ones. The main islands from north to south are: “Monteagudo o Norte, “Isla del Medio o de Faro” and “Isla del Sur o San Martiño”.
The first two are joined by means of a stretch of sand which is called Rodas beach; one of the top beaches in the world according to The Guardian newspaper. To the western end there is a salt water lagoon called “Dos Nenos”.
Rugged cliffs are found on the west coast, some as high as 100m. There are also numerous caves caused by coastal erosion. Meanwhile on the east coast there are soft hillsides which slope down to beautiful beaches of fine sand. The above mentioned Rodas beach, according to the British newspaper “The Guardian,” is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
On the Cíes islands one can delight in nature, enjoy going for a stroll, admire breathtaking scenery but above all relish the peace and tranquillity it offers. The islands were declared a protected ”Natural Park” in 1980 and since 2002 are part of The Atlantic Islands National Park.
Accommodation on the islands
“Illas Cíes” campsite has room for 800 campers. Visitors are allowed to stay for a maximum of 15 nights. It is advisable to book by telephone. The campsite is open from Easter until the end of the summer.
Web page : www.campingislascies.com
Phone: +34 986 225 582
How to get there
Access to the National park is by sea. If you are intending to use a private means of transport you will need to get permission previously. Click Here to apply.
Nowadays, several shipping companies offer regular services to Cíes and Ons islands at Easter, weekends in May and during the summer. Only 2,200 people a day are allowed on the islands.
Additional Information
In order to protect the environment, the number of visitors and activities on and around the islands is controlled.
The following points should be taken into account while visiting the islands:
- It is not advisable to walk near the edge of the cliffs, it could be dangerous.
- Use the public paths.
- Take plenty of water and sun cream.
- Do not leave rubbish along the way, take it with you.
- You are only allowed to camp in specific areas.
- You must not pick plants or annoy animals.
- You are not allowed to anchor boats without permission. Clic here to apply for permission.
- You are not allowed to dive / scuba dive near the islands without permission. Clic here to apply for permission.
- Lighting fires is forbidden.
- Animals or pets are not allowed on the islands. Except guide dogs.
Islas Cíes National Park Contact Information
Phone: +34 986 246 517 / +34 986 246 550.
Fax: +34 986 246 553.
E-mail: iatlanticas@oapn.mma.es
