Beaches of the Cíes islands. Playa de Rodas
The main attraction of the island is the Playa de Rodas, and it is the beach that attracts most visitors to the islands. This secluded and immensely beautiful stretch of sand joins the two main islands. Playa de Rodas is widely considered one of the best beaches in all of Spain.
But the Cíes Islands are also home to a handful of other wonderful and lesser-known beaches. The protected coves of Praia de Nosa Señora or Praia das Figueiras are smaller, but spectacular all the same, and the chances of you being able to enjoy them all to yourself is very high.
Islas Cies Trails
Since the beaches attract most of the attention of visitors to the islands, the hiking trails feel even more untouched, remote, and secluded. There is a winding network of well kept and signposted trails that traverse the main islands.
The two best and most rewarding trails are the paths that take you up to Monte Faro, the highest of the islands’ three lighthouses (at 175 meters), and the trail that will take you to the panoramic viewpoint of Alto do Principe (111 meters). Both can get steep, but both are easy, even for the most inexperienced hikers.
Where to stay
There is just one place on the whole archipelago, where guests are allowed to spend the night, Camping Islas Cíes. The camping grounds offer clean shower blocks, a well-stocked shop, and exceptionally friendly staff. You can choose to stay in one of the bungalows they offer or you can pitch your own tent.
Activities on Islas Cíes
At the camping site, they offer several different activities for adults and children alike. You can choose from.
- Snorkeling lessons (€30)
- Kayaking (€35)
- Stargazing (6€)
- Boat trips the archipelago’s third island Isla de San Martiño.
- For kids, the campsite organizes free children’s activities every morning and evening.
Where to eat
There are three restaurants on the islands that offer a wide variety of daily caught seafood including sea bass, monkfish, sea bream, tuna mackerel sardines, and turbot.
The man dish comes out to around €14-18, which is pricey but not crazy. If you can pack your own food.