Majorca is synonymous with world-renowned beaches and coves, but is also a perfect destination to enjoy countryside, culture, water sports, entertainment... There are many reasons to visit the island, the largest of the Balearics.
Majorca is an island that measures almost 80 kilometres from one end to the other, outstanding for its diversity. It has 550 kilometres of coast, where you will find some of the Mediterranean's most beautiful coves and beaches: white sand beaches with a full range of services, as well as small coves set between cliffs and pine groves in the north of the island. Its clean, crystal clear waters are ideal for bathing and for water sports such as scuba diving, water skiing, windsurfing, fishing, sailing and surfing. These are not the only sports on offer here, however: golf is widely available. There are many well-designed courses, harmoniously set in their natural surroundings, suitable for all levels.
This Balearic Island is packed with wonderful spots. Hiring a car or going on group tours are two good ways to explore the island. Majorca has a broad range of hire cars on offer, although you can also get about using the scheduled bus services that operate between the island's main towns. There is also a train that runs between the capital, Palma de Mallorca and Sóller. This trip is well worthwhile - the train affords delightful views of the beautiful Majorca countryside. If sports are your thing, then cycle touring and hiking are the healthiest ways to get to know this Mediterranean island. Why not explore the tracks and trails that criss-cross Majorca? There are many routes, both along the coast and inland, fully signed with information panels. These itineraries are a wonderful way to get to know the rural side of this land. This is the way to discover the most authentic flavour of Majorca, savouring its unspoilt countryside... It is well worthwhile, rest assured. Nature has an outstanding role on the island. Almost 40 percent of Majorca is protected countryside, and the landscape is marked by contrast: caverns, pine woods, green hills, abrupt mountains... Of the many nature areas, special mention should be made of the Sierra de Tramuntana Mountains in the north, with peaks reaching more than 1,400 metres above sea level. Close to these mountains you will find some of Majorca's most picturesque towns and villages, such as Deià, Pollença and Valldemossa, whose unique atmosphere has captivated artists for centuries. Another highly recommended outing is to the Cabrera National Park (Marine and Terrestrial), a group of islands and islets less than an hour by boat from Majorca.
Culture is an ever-present element in the life of the island. All year round there are festivals, concerts, literary competitions, exhibitions, recitals, theatre performances… The city of Palma de Mallorca is the cultural and artistic centre of the island, and is outstanding for the excellent conservation of its historic centre. Be sure to take a stroll around the old town and enjoy the varied, entertaining nightlife. Every year, Majorca's charm attracts famous politicians, film stars, personalities from the world of fashion... they make the island their holiday destination. Majorca has excellent communications by air and sea. Airlines from numerous countries operate out of its Son Sant Joan international airport, eight kilometres from Palma. The island also has transport links with the rest of the archipelago and the Spanish mainland via boats and scheduled ferry services that sail from the ports of Palma and Alcúdia. These excellent communications mean that from Majorca you can make visits to other Balearic Islands, such as Ibiza and Minorca, with return day-trips possible.
Tuesday, 29 July 2008
Beaches, art and leisure on the Costa del Sol
The perfect setting for leisure and relaxation where you can enjoy wide open beaches with warm waters, modern hotel facilities and exclusive golf courses, not forgetting the passion for life to be found in its towns and in its people. Forget your daily routine and spend a few magical days in one of the world’s most prized tourist destinations.
Sun and sand are, without doubt, the trademarks that have made the coast of Malaga province into the ideal destination for more than eight million tourists who come to this privileged part of Andalusia every year. Initially attracted by its exceptional climate (the average annual temperature is about 18ºC), visitors to the Costa del Sol end up being seduced by its attractive towns and villages, many with quiet coves, kilometres of clean sand, unusual natural settings and the Mediterranean sea, perfect for swimming and all sorts of water sports. Any spot on the Malaga coast is perfect to enjoy the good weather, peace and quiet, cool streets and squares, friendly local people and delicious flavours of the finest fish in a variety of dishes – an essential ingredient in the light, exquisite local cuisine.
The life of leisure and luxury also stand out on the Costa del Sol. Towns like Malaga, Torremolinos, Benalmádena, Marbella, Mijas and Estepona are important centres for shopping, culture and business, as well as being some of international high society’s favourite destinations. Casinos, concerts, museums, fiestas, theatres, water parks and theme parks are just some of the leisure activities on offer by day, while by night the fun continues when the bars, discos and nightclubs open. The Costa del Sol’s setting is also perfect for a wide range of open-air sports and contact with nature. If there is one dominant sport in Malaga province, however, it is golf. The Costa del Sol is a Mecca for thousands of enthusiasts. There are almost fifty courses to be found over a relatively small area – in places like Marbella, Malaga, Estepona, Guadiaro, San Pedro de Alcántara, Alhaurín de la Torre, Artola, Mijas and Puerto Banús.
The perfect way to relax and tone up the body is in one of the many new spas and hydrotherapy centres that have appeared recently along the Malaga coast offering sauna, massage, Turkish baths and jacuzzi. There are two traditional spa-centres in the province. They can be found in-land at Carratraca and Tolox, with good access from the coast. The Costa del Sol, like all of Spain, has a wealth of art and history to enjoy. Pablo Picasso was born in Malaga and the city has just opened a new museum dedicated to this universal artist. It also has historic buildings and monuments like the Cathedral, Moorish “Alcazaba” (Fortress) as well as its old town, full of palaces and stately town houses. It is also well worth visiting nearby towns such as Antequera, Ronda, Marbella and Nerja whose beautiful, mysterious pre-historic caves are not to be missed. It is definitely worth taking time out from your relaxation by the sea to discover the historic/artistic heritage of this welcoming region, worthy of being one of the world’s prime tourist destinations.
Sun and sand are, without doubt, the trademarks that have made the coast of Malaga province into the ideal destination for more than eight million tourists who come to this privileged part of Andalusia every year. Initially attracted by its exceptional climate (the average annual temperature is about 18ºC), visitors to the Costa del Sol end up being seduced by its attractive towns and villages, many with quiet coves, kilometres of clean sand, unusual natural settings and the Mediterranean sea, perfect for swimming and all sorts of water sports. Any spot on the Malaga coast is perfect to enjoy the good weather, peace and quiet, cool streets and squares, friendly local people and delicious flavours of the finest fish in a variety of dishes – an essential ingredient in the light, exquisite local cuisine.
The life of leisure and luxury also stand out on the Costa del Sol. Towns like Malaga, Torremolinos, Benalmádena, Marbella, Mijas and Estepona are important centres for shopping, culture and business, as well as being some of international high society’s favourite destinations. Casinos, concerts, museums, fiestas, theatres, water parks and theme parks are just some of the leisure activities on offer by day, while by night the fun continues when the bars, discos and nightclubs open. The Costa del Sol’s setting is also perfect for a wide range of open-air sports and contact with nature. If there is one dominant sport in Malaga province, however, it is golf. The Costa del Sol is a Mecca for thousands of enthusiasts. There are almost fifty courses to be found over a relatively small area – in places like Marbella, Malaga, Estepona, Guadiaro, San Pedro de Alcántara, Alhaurín de la Torre, Artola, Mijas and Puerto Banús.
The perfect way to relax and tone up the body is in one of the many new spas and hydrotherapy centres that have appeared recently along the Malaga coast offering sauna, massage, Turkish baths and jacuzzi. There are two traditional spa-centres in the province. They can be found in-land at Carratraca and Tolox, with good access from the coast. The Costa del Sol, like all of Spain, has a wealth of art and history to enjoy. Pablo Picasso was born in Malaga and the city has just opened a new museum dedicated to this universal artist. It also has historic buildings and monuments like the Cathedral, Moorish “Alcazaba” (Fortress) as well as its old town, full of palaces and stately town houses. It is also well worth visiting nearby towns such as Antequera, Ronda, Marbella and Nerja whose beautiful, mysterious pre-historic caves are not to be missed. It is definitely worth taking time out from your relaxation by the sea to discover the historic/artistic heritage of this welcoming region, worthy of being one of the world’s prime tourist destinations.
The Basque Coast - a taste of the truly authentic
There are many reasons to enjoy the "Costa Vasca", the coastal area of the Basque Country: 252 kilometres washed by the Cantabrian Sea and dominated by intense shades of blue and green. Here, amidst the mountains, estuaries, cliffs and nature reserves there are broad beaches of fine, golden sand, the perfect setting for surfing, kayaking and sailing. There are also villages with maritime atmosphere, country mansions, monuments, museums...
On the Basque Coast, in northern Spain, there is lots to see. Why not explore the coast of Guipúzcoa and Vizcaya. The Cantabrian Sea meets mountains and meadows to form a beautiful landscape where nature plays the lead role. In this stunning setting you will find beautiful villages with picturesque streets and buildings - ideal for a pleasant outing. There are many places well worth discovering in this part of Green Spain. So, on this route there are cities, towns and villages not to be missed. In Guipúzcoa you will find the historic centre of Hondarribia; Zarautz, a paradise for surfing lovers; Getaria, with its maritime atmosphere; the unspoilt beaches between Zumaia and Deba; Donostia-San Sebastián, the stately capital of the province. In Vizcaya, meanwhile, there are other emblematic spots such as Bermeo and Lekeitio, very close to Urdaibai, a nature area with the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve designation, and to Mundaka, a real surfing sanctuary - the left-hander that breaks here is Europe's best and one of the best in the world; not forgetting San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, where there are stunning views of the rugged Cantabrian coast.
This area is ideal for adventure sports such as: paragliding and hang gliding; hiking; water sports such as scuba diving, sailing, surfing and kayaking; and, of course, golf. Make the most of your visit to see the Vizcaya Suspension Bridge. It has the UNESCO World Heritage Designation and links the towns of Getxo and Portugalete, just a few kilometres from Bilbao. You should not, of course, visit the Basque Coast without trying the local gastronomy. It is exquisite and internationally renowned for its fish, seafood and meats, especially the “pinchos” - delicious miniature dishes. These are just a few of the ideas awaiting you in this part of the Basque Country. Be sure to visit the region's tourist offices, where they will help you plan your stay so that you can enjoy your visit to the full.
On the Basque Coast, in northern Spain, there is lots to see. Why not explore the coast of Guipúzcoa and Vizcaya. The Cantabrian Sea meets mountains and meadows to form a beautiful landscape where nature plays the lead role. In this stunning setting you will find beautiful villages with picturesque streets and buildings - ideal for a pleasant outing. There are many places well worth discovering in this part of Green Spain. So, on this route there are cities, towns and villages not to be missed. In Guipúzcoa you will find the historic centre of Hondarribia; Zarautz, a paradise for surfing lovers; Getaria, with its maritime atmosphere; the unspoilt beaches between Zumaia and Deba; Donostia-San Sebastián, the stately capital of the province. In Vizcaya, meanwhile, there are other emblematic spots such as Bermeo and Lekeitio, very close to Urdaibai, a nature area with the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve designation, and to Mundaka, a real surfing sanctuary - the left-hander that breaks here is Europe's best and one of the best in the world; not forgetting San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, where there are stunning views of the rugged Cantabrian coast.
This area is ideal for adventure sports such as: paragliding and hang gliding; hiking; water sports such as scuba diving, sailing, surfing and kayaking; and, of course, golf. Make the most of your visit to see the Vizcaya Suspension Bridge. It has the UNESCO World Heritage Designation and links the towns of Getxo and Portugalete, just a few kilometres from Bilbao. You should not, of course, visit the Basque Coast without trying the local gastronomy. It is exquisite and internationally renowned for its fish, seafood and meats, especially the “pinchos” - delicious miniature dishes. These are just a few of the ideas awaiting you in this part of the Basque Country. Be sure to visit the region's tourist offices, where they will help you plan your stay so that you can enjoy your visit to the full.
The Beaches of Cadiz province: sun and sea all year round
Sunshine in summer and winter too. Unspoilt countryside, sand dunes and pine groves that reach down to the very shore. Windsurfing and kitesurfing in crystal clear waters, the ideal setting for a range of water sports. Endless beaches of fine, white sand. Small coves and cliffs reaching more than 100 metres high. Golf courses. Towns and villages with thousands of years of history… This is the Cadiz coast. You decide.
In southern Spain, on the Costa de la Luz coast, you will find the beaches of Cadiz province. It has 260 kilometres of coastline with some of the most beautiful beaches you could imagine. This province in Andalusia is washed by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It has many protected nature areas which include salt flats, sand dunes, pine forests, pastureland where fighting bulls are reared, springs, cliffs... Here you will also find small fishing villages and traditional fishermen, with their whitewashed houses and peaceful streets. You can enjoy their craft and sports shops, restaurants offering excellent, local fresh fish and shellfish, and open-air terrace bars which are open most of the year and are ideal to savour, for example, a glass of Andalusian "fino" sherry.
It is the deep blue of the sea, with a thousand different shades, the clear, bright skies, and unique, spectacular, paradise beaches which bring thousands of people to these shores year after year. There is a wide variety to choose from: unspoilt country beaches, city beaches, some broad and kilometres long, others small and hidden from view, family beaches with a full range of services... There are certain spots not to be missed, such as: Bolonia cove with the Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia; Caños de Meca, home to a hippy colony, where the Trafalgar lighthouse looks out over the horizon; Véjer de la Frontera, a beautiful town with a Moorish feel, set on the top of a hill; the stunning cliffs of Barbate; the endless beach at Zahara de los Atunes; the clean, pristine coast of Conil de la Frontera, Chiclana, Chipiona, Rota and Sanlúcar de Barrameda; the sandy beaches of the bay of Cadiz, and those at Puerto de Santa María, a favourite spot for its buzzing nightlife… Here you will find excellent beaches, many of which have the Blue Flag certification, with a young, lively atmosphere throughout the day and when evening falls. Come and see for yourself at any of its beach bars, ideal places to enjoy stunning sunsets. The spectacle is well worth seeing.
The strong easterly and westerly winds that often blow in the area make this a top spot for enthusiasts of sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. Tarifa and its surrounding area attracts thousands of surfers from all over the world. Kites and sails fill the sea and beaches of Cadiz province with life and colour. Here there are also other activities available such as angling, scuba diving, and golf at several internationally prestigious courses.
In southern Spain, on the Costa de la Luz coast, you will find the beaches of Cadiz province. It has 260 kilometres of coastline with some of the most beautiful beaches you could imagine. This province in Andalusia is washed by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It has many protected nature areas which include salt flats, sand dunes, pine forests, pastureland where fighting bulls are reared, springs, cliffs... Here you will also find small fishing villages and traditional fishermen, with their whitewashed houses and peaceful streets. You can enjoy their craft and sports shops, restaurants offering excellent, local fresh fish and shellfish, and open-air terrace bars which are open most of the year and are ideal to savour, for example, a glass of Andalusian "fino" sherry.
It is the deep blue of the sea, with a thousand different shades, the clear, bright skies, and unique, spectacular, paradise beaches which bring thousands of people to these shores year after year. There is a wide variety to choose from: unspoilt country beaches, city beaches, some broad and kilometres long, others small and hidden from view, family beaches with a full range of services... There are certain spots not to be missed, such as: Bolonia cove with the Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia; Caños de Meca, home to a hippy colony, where the Trafalgar lighthouse looks out over the horizon; Véjer de la Frontera, a beautiful town with a Moorish feel, set on the top of a hill; the stunning cliffs of Barbate; the endless beach at Zahara de los Atunes; the clean, pristine coast of Conil de la Frontera, Chiclana, Chipiona, Rota and Sanlúcar de Barrameda; the sandy beaches of the bay of Cadiz, and those at Puerto de Santa María, a favourite spot for its buzzing nightlife… Here you will find excellent beaches, many of which have the Blue Flag certification, with a young, lively atmosphere throughout the day and when evening falls. Come and see for yourself at any of its beach bars, ideal places to enjoy stunning sunsets. The spectacle is well worth seeing.
The strong easterly and westerly winds that often blow in the area make this a top spot for enthusiasts of sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. Tarifa and its surrounding area attracts thousands of surfers from all over the world. Kites and sails fill the sea and beaches of Cadiz province with life and colour. Here there are also other activities available such as angling, scuba diving, and golf at several internationally prestigious courses.
Beaches with the Q for Quality award
Clean, safe, accessible and environmentally friendly. This is what Spain's beaches are like, and for this reason they are the chosen destination for thousands of people every year. Their quality is recognised internationally. Did you know that Spain is the European country that received most blue flags in 2007? Some of them also have the demanding Q for Tourism Quality award. Come and discover what a first-rate coast is like - a coast with the Q award.
With almost 8,000 kilometres of coastline and 3,000 catalogued beaches, Spain is the perfect destination for those in search of sun and sand at any time of year. Proof of this lies in the thousands who return year after year. Here you will find a broad, varied array of attractions, with beaches offering a multitude of options for entertainment with the family, water sports and fun by day and by night. Whichever region you choose, here you will find excellent facilities and clean, sandy beaches, with approved security services, excellent access and respect for the environment. All this is guaranteed by the quality certificates granted to Spanish beaches after evaluation of these parameters. The blue flag rating is the most widely known, but there are other highly prestigious, demanding systems also in place. These include the Q for Quality distinction, awarded by the Spanish Tourism Quality Institute (ICTE).
When this award was created it was a pioneering innovation at world level. It is different from other standards in that it focuses especially on the tourism sector, with specific emphasis placed on the needs of the end user. Q for Quality does not only mean that the beach in questions meets the necessary quality requirements, but also that its facilities and services are in constant search of improvement and customer satisfaction. Some fifty beaches in Spain currently have the Q for Tourism Quality award. They are in the Balearic Islands and on the coasts of Andalusia, Asturias, Region of Valencia, Catalonia and Murcia, although many others are on the way to receiving it. Once they have earned the award, beaches must pass an annual review to maintain it. Environmental education, leisure services, removal of architectural barriers and assistance to disabled persons are some of the aspects taken into account.
In Spain you can enjoy beaches designed just for you. Come and discover them: they are beaches with the Q for Quality award.
With almost 8,000 kilometres of coastline and 3,000 catalogued beaches, Spain is the perfect destination for those in search of sun and sand at any time of year. Proof of this lies in the thousands who return year after year. Here you will find a broad, varied array of attractions, with beaches offering a multitude of options for entertainment with the family, water sports and fun by day and by night. Whichever region you choose, here you will find excellent facilities and clean, sandy beaches, with approved security services, excellent access and respect for the environment. All this is guaranteed by the quality certificates granted to Spanish beaches after evaluation of these parameters. The blue flag rating is the most widely known, but there are other highly prestigious, demanding systems also in place. These include the Q for Quality distinction, awarded by the Spanish Tourism Quality Institute (ICTE).
When this award was created it was a pioneering innovation at world level. It is different from other standards in that it focuses especially on the tourism sector, with specific emphasis placed on the needs of the end user. Q for Quality does not only mean that the beach in questions meets the necessary quality requirements, but also that its facilities and services are in constant search of improvement and customer satisfaction. Some fifty beaches in Spain currently have the Q for Tourism Quality award. They are in the Balearic Islands and on the coasts of Andalusia, Asturias, Region of Valencia, Catalonia and Murcia, although many others are on the way to receiving it. Once they have earned the award, beaches must pass an annual review to maintain it. Environmental education, leisure services, removal of architectural barriers and assistance to disabled persons are some of the aspects taken into account.
In Spain you can enjoy beaches designed just for you. Come and discover them: they are beaches with the Q for Quality award.
The Costa Blanca: light and life in countryside of contrasts
The Costa Blanca is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Europe. Travelling along the Costa Blanca you will find a world of spectacular contrasts, with fishing villages almost hidden away along the coast and large towns which are bursting with life.
Along its 160 kilometres of coast beside the Mediterranean, the Costa Blanca has hundreds of different cities and countryside just waiting to be discovered. Denia, in the north of the province of Alicante, located between rocks and long sandy beaches, surrounds the traveller with its narrow streets and seafaring atmosphere. Nearby, two capes protect Jávea from the winds, and having had a swim in its crystal clear waters, you can walk through the historic centre of the town for a taste of history. Further south, beneath the impressive Peñón de Ifach, the highest cliff on the Mediterranean, we find Calpe, where its historic past is present in the streets which are alive with people and filled with opportunities of trying the local cooking. The same can be said for Altea, which is located in a bay in the shelter of the mountains. It is like a picture postcard with its white houses and the blue dome of its church shining in the clear morning sunlight. A long beach of golden sand lies before the skyscrapers of Benidorm. Every year, millions of people arrive to enjoy its micro-climate, its kilometres of beaches and its infrastructures which are centred on leisure activities. The city is full of life and is one of the tourist epicentres of the Mediterranean. Passing through Villajoyosa and the brightly coloured façades of its houses, we arrive at Alicante, the 'City of Light', and capital of the province. Alicante has a wide offer of cultural and artistic activities waiting to be discovered. Between the sea and the city is the Explanada promenade, with its thousands of red, black and cream mosaic tiles, and if we pass though the old city centre we'll reach the castle of Santa Bárbara, from where we will have an incomparable panoramic view.
Following the coast, it is worth stopping off at Santa Pola, an old Iberian fort and currently an important fishing centre. Further south, amongst the marshes, the tourist resort of Torrevieja waits with its nostalgic émigrés. And at the other end of the Costa Blanca, Pilar de la Horadada welcomes lovers of nature in its purest state Inland, amongst the high mountains, fields and forests there are many surprising and varied villages and towns. In Elche, our senses will be stimulated as we stroll through the largest palm grove in Europe and experience its fiestas of the Misteri, both of which have been declared part of the World Heritage. And in Orihuela, you can discover its gothic, renaissance and baroque buildings. The gastronomy on the Costa Blanca never fails to impress the traveller. Its rice dishes, fish and seafood, its fresh vegetables, fruits and exquisite wines go together to make an explosion of tastes and menus all based on the so-called Mediterranean diet.
Along its 160 kilometres of coast beside the Mediterranean, the Costa Blanca has hundreds of different cities and countryside just waiting to be discovered. Denia, in the north of the province of Alicante, located between rocks and long sandy beaches, surrounds the traveller with its narrow streets and seafaring atmosphere. Nearby, two capes protect Jávea from the winds, and having had a swim in its crystal clear waters, you can walk through the historic centre of the town for a taste of history. Further south, beneath the impressive Peñón de Ifach, the highest cliff on the Mediterranean, we find Calpe, where its historic past is present in the streets which are alive with people and filled with opportunities of trying the local cooking. The same can be said for Altea, which is located in a bay in the shelter of the mountains. It is like a picture postcard with its white houses and the blue dome of its church shining in the clear morning sunlight. A long beach of golden sand lies before the skyscrapers of Benidorm. Every year, millions of people arrive to enjoy its micro-climate, its kilometres of beaches and its infrastructures which are centred on leisure activities. The city is full of life and is one of the tourist epicentres of the Mediterranean. Passing through Villajoyosa and the brightly coloured façades of its houses, we arrive at Alicante, the 'City of Light', and capital of the province. Alicante has a wide offer of cultural and artistic activities waiting to be discovered. Between the sea and the city is the Explanada promenade, with its thousands of red, black and cream mosaic tiles, and if we pass though the old city centre we'll reach the castle of Santa Bárbara, from where we will have an incomparable panoramic view.
Following the coast, it is worth stopping off at Santa Pola, an old Iberian fort and currently an important fishing centre. Further south, amongst the marshes, the tourist resort of Torrevieja waits with its nostalgic émigrés. And at the other end of the Costa Blanca, Pilar de la Horadada welcomes lovers of nature in its purest state Inland, amongst the high mountains, fields and forests there are many surprising and varied villages and towns. In Elche, our senses will be stimulated as we stroll through the largest palm grove in Europe and experience its fiestas of the Misteri, both of which have been declared part of the World Heritage. And in Orihuela, you can discover its gothic, renaissance and baroque buildings. The gastronomy on the Costa Blanca never fails to impress the traveller. Its rice dishes, fish and seafood, its fresh vegetables, fruits and exquisite wines go together to make an explosion of tastes and menus all based on the so-called Mediterranean diet.
The stunning Cíes Islands
The Romans called the Cíes Islands (Galicia), “the islands of the Gods”. To this day they are an idyllic paradise in northern Spain where you can enjoy nature and the sea. When you see them for yourself you will understand why their main beach was chosen as best in the world by The Guardian newspaper. Heaven on earth? If not, then this is close.
Crystal clear, turquoise water. Beaches with the finest white sand. A lake whose transparent surface allows you to see the wide variety of fish that live below. Are we in the tropics? No, these are the Cíes Islands, in northwestern Spain. There are three islands and they are located in the Rías Baixas region of Galicia, facing the coast of Vigo. This archipelago, besides being a fairy-tale setting, is also of great ecological importance. Its stunning landscapes form part of the Islas Atlánticas National Park, outstanding for its rich sea beds and some of the most important colonies of marine birds in the world. The Atlantic Ocean, dunes, pine forest, cliffs… You will see for yourself – the Cíes Islands have incredible landscapes, worthy of the gods. How to visit Peace, quiet and cleanliness are further qualities that make these islands outstanding. To protect the environment and avoid mass tourism, access to visitors is limited to 2,200 people per day. During Easter week, at weekends in May and throughout the summer, there are regular boat services from Vigo, Baiona and Cangas de Morrazo. If you want to sleep on the Cíes Islands, then there is a campsite with capacity for 800 people. It opens for Easter week and 15 June to 15 September, and stays are limited to a maximum of 2 weeks. To make use of these facilities you should book in advance by telephone (on +34 986438358 or +34 986687050) and complete your camper’s registration card at the campsite office at Vigo Marine Resort. When you buy your boat ticket, don’t forget to show this card – otherwise you will only be sold a 1-day return.
Crystal clear, turquoise water. Beaches with the finest white sand. A lake whose transparent surface allows you to see the wide variety of fish that live below. Are we in the tropics? No, these are the Cíes Islands, in northwestern Spain. There are three islands and they are located in the Rías Baixas region of Galicia, facing the coast of Vigo. This archipelago, besides being a fairy-tale setting, is also of great ecological importance. Its stunning landscapes form part of the Islas Atlánticas National Park, outstanding for its rich sea beds and some of the most important colonies of marine birds in the world. The Atlantic Ocean, dunes, pine forest, cliffs… You will see for yourself – the Cíes Islands have incredible landscapes, worthy of the gods. How to visit Peace, quiet and cleanliness are further qualities that make these islands outstanding. To protect the environment and avoid mass tourism, access to visitors is limited to 2,200 people per day. During Easter week, at weekends in May and throughout the summer, there are regular boat services from Vigo, Baiona and Cangas de Morrazo. If you want to sleep on the Cíes Islands, then there is a campsite with capacity for 800 people. It opens for Easter week and 15 June to 15 September, and stays are limited to a maximum of 2 weeks. To make use of these facilities you should book in advance by telephone (on +34 986438358 or +34 986687050) and complete your camper’s registration card at the campsite office at Vigo Marine Resort. When you buy your boat ticket, don’t forget to show this card – otherwise you will only be sold a 1-day return.
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