The Cies Islands, a short boat ride from the city of Vigo in northwest Spain, are part of the UNESCO-recognised Atlantic Islands National Park, a natural environment that makes it an exceptional spot for observing wildlife
If you’re fed up with crowded beaches, overpriced drinks, and the never-ending queues of Europe’s typical island hotspots, then northwest Spain could be just the ticket. Galicia is a region that often goes unnoticed by international tourists.
Unlike the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast, it’s famed for its verdant landscapes, rugged coastline, and mild climate rather than endless beaches and nightlife. Its relative anonymity is partly due to its remoteness and accessibility – it feels a world away compared to Majorca or Tenerife – but this has helped maintain its genuine charm.
Just a quick boat trip from the city of Vigo will take you to the Cíes Islands, a place that could easily be mistaken for the Caribbean. While Vigo is known for its foggy and damp climate, the Cíes Islands, an archipelago off the coast of Galicia, are a delightful surprise, reports the Express.
Do you have a travel story to share? Email [email protected]
READ MORE: World’s most beautiful village’s new tourism rules as locals attacked and overwhelmedREAD MORE: Four airlines now ban passengers from packing AirPods
The islands are part of the UNESCO-recognised Atlantic Islands National Park, a natural habitat that makes it a prime spot for wildlife watching. Declared a Nature Reserve in 1980, its white sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs make the destination feel entirely unlike anything else on the continent.
The Cíes archipelago comprises three islands: Monte Agudo, O Faro and San Martiño.
The first two are linked by an extensive stretch of sand: Rodas Beach, amongst the jewels of the Cíes Islands. The Guardian declared this beach the world’s finest. Stretching over half a mile in length and 200 feet in width, it boasts pristine white sand, crystal-clear emerald waters, and untouched dune landscapes. Situated conveniently close to the harbour, it remains easily reachable and perfect for a day’s excursion.
Ferry transport provides the sole access to these islands, with visitor numbers strictly controlled throughout the summer period. This ensures you can wander along Rodas Beach feeling as though you’ve discovered a hidden haven, rather than battling crowds of tourists.
Towering pine woodlands, walking paths, and rugged clifftops provide an adventurous atmosphere, whilst the Atlantic seas offer the perfect cooling plunge following a morning’s hike. One visitor posted on Tripadvisor: “This is definitely a bucket list destination. A perfect little piece of unspoilt paradise with some of the best scenery and beaches I’ve ever seen.”
Another commented: “Arriving in the morning, we hiked to the lighthouse with spectacular views, then a picnic and drinking coffee at the campsite that served us remarkably, we continued to the Alto do Príncipe, ending up on the beach of Figueiras, a real paradise despite its cold waters, undoubtedly an island paradise.”
For those tired of the usual Mediterranean hotspots, the Cíes Islands provide a refreshing alternative: untouched natural splendour, serene beaches, and the unique opportunity to escape Europe’s typical holiday hustle and bustle.