Marítimo-Terrestre das Illas Atlánticas de Galicia

October 30, 2025

Exploring Marítimo-Terrestre das Illas Atlánticas de Galicia National Park

Situated off the Galician coast in northwestern Spain, the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park protects a unique marine and island ecosystem across the archipelagos of Cíes, Ons, Sálvora, and Cortegada. Declared a national park in 2002, it covers nearly 8,500 hectares, most of which are marine areas rich in biodiversity.

The park’s landscapes blend white-sand beaches, dunes, cliffs, and coastal forests of pine and eucalyptus. Beneath the waves, extensive seagrass meadows and rocky reefs harbor diverse marine life, including bottlenose dolphins, octopus, and numerous seabird species such as the European shag and yellow-legged gull.

Access is typically by ferry from Vigo, Cangas, or Bueu, with visitor numbers limited to preserve the fragile environment. The Cíes Islands, often called the “Galician Caribbean,” are famous for Rodas Beach, once voted the world’s most beautiful by The Guardian. This park is a model of marine conservation and a haven for those seeking unspoiled Atlantic nature.

Must See / Must Do

1. Visit the Cíes Islands – known for Rodas Beach, often called one of the most beautiful in the world.

2. Hike to Monte Faro (Cíes) – a panoramic trail to the lighthouse with views of the archipelago and the open ocean.

3. Explore Ons Island – walk its coastal paths, visit the fishing village, and taste local octopus (pulpo de Ons).

4. Visit Cortegada Island – home to one of the densest natural laurel forests in Europe.

5. Watch the sunset over the Atlantic – the light here turns gold, silver, and violet — a true Galician miracle.

Park Essentials

📍 Region: Galicia, Provinces of Pontevedra and A Coruña

📏 Area: 8,480 ha (1,200 land + 7,200 sea)

🏝️ Archipelagos: Cíes, Ons, Sálvora, Cortegada

🌊 Landscape: Dunes, beaches, cliffs, pine forests, marine ecosystems

🌿🕊️ Flora and Fauna: Laurel, pine, seabirds (shags, gulls), dolphins, octopus, and seagrass meadows

📅 Best time to visit: May – September

🚤 Main gateways: Vigo, Cangas, Bueu, Ribeira, Carril

Where the Pirineo spirit gives back

At Pirineo, we believe that adventure goes hand in hand with responsibility. Through our YourParks program, we proudly support the stewardship of Spain’s national parks, promoting sustainable exploration and the protection of our most treasured landscapes. Every journey with Pirineo is an opportunity to connect with nature—and to help preserve it for generations to come.

Your purchase. Your park.

Recommended Hiking Trails

1. Cíes Islands – Monte Faro Trail

Duration: 2.5–3 hours round trip
Distance: ~7 km
Difficulty: Moderate

Overview: The park’s most iconic trail — leading through pine forest and coastline to the Cíes lighthouse, with sweeping views over Rodas Beach and the open sea.

2. Ons Island – South Coastal Route

Duration: 2–3 hours
Distance: ~6 km loop
Difficulty: Easy

Overview: A relaxed route along cliffs and beaches, ideal for birdwatching and sea views. The trail passes through traditional island landscapes and the fishing port.

3. Sálvora Island Circular Route

Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Distance: ~5 km
Difficulty: Easy

Overview: A short, guided trail through the island’s lighthouse, fishing village ruins, and pristine beaches — accessible only by authorized boat tours.