There are many who have a desire to spend a few days on vacation on an island and what is certain is that there are two very close to Portugal that are linked by a sand cord and whose existence many are unaware of. The two islands that are connected are one are in northern Spain, next to the Portugal border, however, there can only be those who have prior permission, and access can only be made by boat.
The CSI islands, located at the entrance of Ria de Vigo, Galicia, form an archipelago that is part of the Atlantic Maritime National Park since 2002. This park extends from Arousa Ria to Vigo Ria, also encompassing the island of ONS.
You can only visit two islands
The archipelago consists of three islands: Monteagudo, also known as the North Island; The Faro, or Middle Island; and San Martiño, the southern island. While the first two are connected by a dune beach and are accessible to the public, the third can only be visited by those who have their own vessel. Therefore, if you are planning a visit to the CSI islands count only to know the Monteagudo islands and the Faro.
One of the main attractions is the beach of wheels, which unites the Monteagudo islands and Faro and was distinguished in 2007 by the British newspaper The Guardian as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The beach forms a saltwater lagoon, protected by the dunes around it.
EXCLUSIVE ACCESS BY MAR
Access to CIs islands is exclusively done by sea, with ferries from Vigo, Biona and Cangas during the high season. For those who want to arrive in a private boat will need to obtain a specific authorization for navigation and anchoring.
The visit to the archipelago is subject to strict control, with a daily limit of 1,800 visitors and 600 places available for night, according to the information provided by the blog. Therefore, it is mandatory to plan the visit in advance and obtain the respective authorization with Xunta de Galicia.
Mandatory visits and guides
From May 15 to September 15, the boats operate daily, while outside this time the frequency is reduced to weekends and Easter Week. In winter, the visit is only allowed if accompanied by an official guide.
To enter the CIs islands two essential documents are required: the administrative authorization issued by Xunta and the boat ticket. This authorization should be requested at least 30 days in advance and without it you can not even buy the ticket.
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Required early reserve
Once authorization is obtained, it is recommended to book the boat ticket as soon as possible, usually available between 30 and 45 days before the trip. Daily quotas are respected rigorously to preserve the ecosystem.
The boarding requires punctuality, so it is mandatory to attend in Porto at least 30 minutes before departure to change the reserve for the physical ticket, and the boarding starts 15 minutes before the scheduled time and the boats do not wait for passengers who have reserved and arrive late.
It is possible to stay overnight on the islands
Landing over on the CIES islands is only possible in the authorized campsite. Visitors can carry their own tent or rent one at the site, equipped with mattress, lower sheet, pillow and pillowcase. It is also possible to rent a bag, if necessary.
During the stay it is important to respect the conservation rules imposed by the park. It is not allowed to fire, catch flowers, stones or shells, feed the animals or access protected areas. Activities such as fishing or diving require additional authorizations.
Attention to seagulls
Another aspect to take into account is the seagulls that dominate the island. These birds are known to be quite ‘sassy’ and there are reports that they can open fakes or untie us to steal food, so it is advisable to keep their food well stored.
The Cíes islands, once a refuge of pirates, became a much sought after destination by lovers of nature, hiking and camping. The archipelago ‘jewel’ remains the beach of wheels, but the islands also offer rails and landscapes that may be the solution for those looking for new pathways or running paths.
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