The Cíes Islands are an archipelago with a lot to offer visitors. Despite being small in size, it comprises various natural areas where you can relax, go hiking or take a dip in the water.
When you think about the Cíes Islands, the first image that comes to mind is its incredible Rodas beach. But Cíes is much more than a beach. In today’s post, we tell you about the activities you can enjoy all year round in this natural park to visit the Cíes Islands in any season.
The Cíes Islands welcomes most visitors in summer
Summer is many people’s favourite season to enjoy a holiday. The good weather in summer allows you to do all types of outdoor activities. That’s why it is also the season when most people visit the Cíes Islands.
In this natural reserve, you will be able to enjoy numerous activities while you connect with nature and take some fantastic photos in an idyllic location.
One of the things you will enjoy most in summer is the beach. With the good weather, you will really want to lie on the fine white sand of the infamous Rodas beach, considered one of the best beaches in the world; while you enjoy some incredible views of the Vigo ria and its coast. Additionally, you will be able to take a delightful dip in its crystal clear waters and then sunbathe.
On the Cíes Islands, you can enjoy a variety of water activities and sports if you feel like it. One of the most popular water activities is snorkelling, an activity that enables you to admire the rich sea life that surrounds the island.
And finally, you can also go diving. This activity requires more experience and preparation. Diving in the area enables you to discover the sea bed and see its enormous ecosystem, mainly made up of a large number of seaweeds, which provide shelter and food to numerous marine species, including crabs, octopus, conger eels, spider crabs and hogfish.
On the Cíes Islands,you will also be able to travel around the island via its hiking trails, which will take you to different places where you will be able to discover the forest area and the rocky area of the island, the fauna and flora that inhabit those areas, and the lighthouses that light the way for seafarers from the highest points. During the journey, you will find different viewpoints that offer you wonderful views of the island and its surroundings.
Bear in mind that you can do these hiking trails at other times of the year; but if you prefer sunny and hot days, summer is perhaps the best time for you. If you opt for the summer season, it is important to remember to wear sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the sun.
In addition, you can also enjoy ornithological tourism on this island. At the bird observatory you will be able to discover all of the species that inhabit this area.
And if one day isn’t enough for you, in summer you will also be able to stay at the campsite. That way, you will be able to enjoy this natural space both during the day and at night, and sleep under a wonderful blanket of stars in one of the most magical places that you will ever be lucky enough to visit.
Visit the Cíes Islands all year round
Summer is a good time to visit the Cíes Islands, that is undisputed. However, visiting the islands at other times of year also has its advantages. Summer is the most popular season among visitors, so visiting at other times of year will give you the opportunity to enjoy it almost exclusively to yourself. You will enjoy a more intimate visit that will help you to connect with nature.
Visiting the Cíes Islands in spring, for example, is an excellent option. The islands don’t receive many visitors at this time of year. However, the days are increasingly sunnier and the temperatures are wonderful most of the time. Hence, going to the Cíes Islands during this season will enable you to enjoy the beach and sea. In addition, spring temperatures are milder than in summer, so you will enjoy walking along the hiking trails much more. Without oppressive heat, or extreme cold. That’s why many people decide to go at this time of year, especially at Easter.
Autumn is also a good time of year to discover this beautiful archipelago. In the months after summer, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful autumn print of the Cíes Islands, taking strolls along the hiking trails and enjoying the most sensational walks, in the heart of nature.
Although it may seem strange, the Cíes Islands are also worth visiting in winter. At this time of year, you can only visit on certain days and with the opportunity to do so with a guided tour. But, as the demand is lower, you will have fewer problems when it comes to booking a ticket. Once there, you will be able to enjoy the island in its entirety and discover its history in depth thanks to the excellent guides from the ferry company that will accompany you.
As you can see, any time of year is perfect for visiting the Cíes Islands. Each season has its own personal charm. For that reason, we invite you to visit this archipelago all year round with Mar de Ons and discover all of the secrets that this charming natural reserve hides.
If you have more time, we also encourage you to discover the other Atlantic islands that make up the Atlantic Islands Maritime-Terrestrial National Park, such as the Island of Ons. Truly spectacular areas, all situated on the banks of the Rias Baixas.
Remember to book in advance on our website so you will have your place guaranteed. Before collecting your boat tickets, don’t forget to request authorisation from the Galician Government on their website if you are travelling at Easter or from 15th May to 15th September. During the rest of the season, we do it for you here at the ferry company.
