ROUTE VIGO – ILLAS CÍES

In the south of Galicia,  we will visit the Ría de Vigo. Distinguished by a pleasant climate and protected by the imposing Cíes Islands, it combines the maritime Galician character, a nature of incomparable beauty, and the avant-garde of the largest and most cosmopolitan city in the region.

This is a route of contrasts,  as we will visit uninhabited islands where there is no traffic, places where nature conservation imposes its rules, and where you will forget the busy crowd. But we will also get to know Vigo, a great city, the largest of Galicia, which will enchant us with its lively and dynamic spirit.

Paradise Islands.

According to The Guardian, the Cíes Islands have one of the most beautiful beaches in the world: Rodas Beach.

The Cíes Islands close the Ría de Vigo, also known as the Treasures Estuary, as many galleons have sunk into its depths, a story that may have been supplemented by legends. Even Jules Verne wrote about it in one of the chapters of Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea.

A former haven for pirates, with lush forests and white sandy beaches make this archipelago a unique place, currently part of the Illas Atlánticas maritime-terrestrial National Park. For this reason, all accesses are controlled and visits can only be carried out on certain dates of the year and only after prior reservation. The entire habitat of the islands is specially protected, so we must be extremely careful when passing through. There are different routes to get to know the most interesting corners and to enjoy a place away from the hustle and bustle, the traffic and even the people, as the islands are not inhabited. This rout is about enjoying the tranquility of an almost virgin place, the domain of fish and birds, where we will have the privilege of being castaways for a day.

The port of Spain.

Vigo is the largest city in Galicia. Open to the sea and full of tradition, however, it is also a modern, cosmopolitan city with an important industry and, above all, a port activity of great importance.

The entire old town still exudes the flair of a former fishing village, with sea men and women who were also the first heroes to regain their sovereignty against the French occupation 19th century. The modern area features wide avenues, imposing buildings and street-level works of art that tell the story of the city.

A place to practice city tourism without losing sight of the greatest natural treasures, such as city parks, beautiful beaches, a belt of forests and of course the incredible Cíes Islands.

Departure from Santiago / Rías Baixas