My experience visiting the Cíes Islands, Vigo Spain / First Part

The Cíes Islands Archipelago, located in the northwest coast of Spain, are a true natural paradise that dazzles with its unique beauty. They comprise three main islands: San Martiño, Do Faro and Monteagudo, the latter two being joined by the wonderful beach of Rodas, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, named this way in 2007 by the British newspaper, The Guardian.

And it is not difficult to understand why, the incredible diversity of landscapes they offer is simply dazzling. Crystal clear waters and soft white sand create a dreamlike setting. The tranquility and sense of isolation experienced here is unparalleled.

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A few days ago was my birthday and I wanted to know something new in Galicia but that would fit our budget and that was also close to us, I was always intrigued by those mountains that could be seen in the distance from Samil beach where I liked to go in summer, although I knew they were paradisiacal islands, I was never interested in finding out how much it cost to visit them, because I imagined it was a luxury I could not afford.

Suddenly one day after work my husband gave me a surprise! We were going to the island as a gift for my birthday! It was a very nice surprise! The best thing is that the tickets were not as expensive as I imagined. The round trip on the boat costs 25 euros per person with the permit included, because being a protected area has a daily limit of access of people and you have to pay a permit to enter the islands.

A one day trip is not enough to know all the corners of the archipelago and enjoy the beach, here I make a parenthesis to tell you that these are the coldest waters in which I have bathed, it was hard to get up the courage to dive into the beach but I had to do it, I could not leave without enjoying these beautiful waters.

However, we took advantage of every second of the day to visit the Lighthouse Island, which is the one in the middle of the three, and is the one with the highest view, Mount Faro, from where you can see a spectacular view of the archipelago.

_{Cíes Lighthouse in Monte Faro}

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_{Da Porta Lighthouse}

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The flora and fauna of the Cíes Islands are equally impressive. Pine, eucalyptus and oak forests are intertwined with trails leading to lookout points with panoramic views. In addition, the marine life is rich and diverse, making these islands a popular destination for divers.

Apart from the lighthouses there are also the ruins of a Franciscan monastery, and on one of the trails there is a very particular stone that is often photographed by tourists, called the Pedra Da Campá.

_{Pedra Da Campá}

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In this panoramic view you can see the dock where the catamaran arrives to transport the tourists, you can also see part of the beach of Rodas, in the background you can see the coast of the city of Vigo..

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The Cíes Islands are a place of serene natural beauty that captivates those who visit, it is an idyllic getaway where you can enjoy pristine beaches, scenic trails and a deep connection with nature, it is a treasure that inspires travelers to appreciate the wonderful things of our planet.

This is one of those trips that one has to repeat, there is so much to see and enjoy, one day is not enough to admire all the natural wonders that this place has.

Soon I will be sharing more images.

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_{All images in this post are my own}