The Cíes Islands are a visual spectacle that you can admire during the boat trip and enjoy when you dive into their crystal-clear waters or walk along the signposted routes that cross the two islands, linked by Rodas beach. Nature and hiking lovers will discover an extremely attractive enclave, with two routes to the island of Monteagudo (or North), another two that go to the island of Faro (or Middle), and an alternative with a longer route that joins the two extremes for the more adventurous.

Put on your boots and walk along the impressive cliffs of the archipelago, observe the exceptional colony of yellow-legged gulls and contemplate the spectacular landscapes of the island of San Martiño, which is only accessible by private boat.

From the Monteagudo Route you will have the sensation of almost touching the impressive cliffs of the Costa da Vela.

The five hiking routes of the Cíes Islands are a perfect option to make the most of your trip at any time of the year. Choose yours and live an unforgettable experience.

The Monte Faro route is the most popular because it passes by the Alto da Campá bird observatory and for its spectacular views of the estuaries and the island of San Martiño. The vertiginous last stretch, full of curves, offers one of the most recognisable images of the national park.

It is a 3.5-kilometre ascent from the information hut at Rodas beach, and another 3 .5 kilometres to return. You will need around two and a half hours to complete this route, during which you will get to know the Cíes colony of yellow-legged gulls in depth and cross the bridge that connects Monteagudo and Faro.

Starlight Destination

The Cíes seabed is renowned for its great diversity of species and its islands are also a privileged enclave for birding. It has recently been awarded the Starlight Destination seal, which accredits the Cíes as a favourable place for stargazing as it is protected from light pollution. Another way of getting to know the area in depth is to visit the signposted points to study, enjoy and learn about the stellar mantle that covers the archipelago.

Part of this itinerary overlaps with the Ruta do Faro da Porta. Both routes start at Rodas beach, close to the disembarkation area, and cross the Lago dos Nenos dock and the Cíes campsite, but fork when they reach Nosa Señora beach. From there the Ruta do Faro de Cíes ascends to the summit and the Ruta do Faro da Porta advances southwards following the rocky landscape of Freu da Porta, always with the island of San Martiño on the horizon. It is a 5.2-kilometre round trip, suitable for all ages.

Another of the most popular options for hikers is the route to Alto do Príncipe, one of the most photographed spots in the Cíes, along with the lighthouse. There you will experience an unforgettable sunset, watching the evening fall into the Atlantic while enjoying a complete panoramic view of the cliffs and Lago dos Nenos. At the top is the unique group of rocks known as Silla de la Reina (Queen's Chair), from where you can comfortably see the horizon. This is the shortest route (3 km).

Although less known, the Monteagudo Route will immerse you in this island and take you to the O Peito lighthouse, from where you'll have spectacular views of the Vigo estuary. Its proximity and orientation towards the O Morrazo peninsula will give you the sensation of almost being able to brush against the impressive cliffs of the Costa da Vela. You'll need two hours and good hydration to cover the 2.8 kilometres that separate Rodas from this point.

The more adventurous have the option of taking the Route between Lighthouses, seven demanding kilometres that should be spread out over the course of the day and that allow you to explore the extremes of both islands. Hikers have almost all the strategic points of the Cíes within easy reach, passing through the Muxieiro-Figueiras dune complex on their way to the O Peito lighthouse, and stopping at the bird observatory on their way to the island of Faro, leaving the paradisiacal beach of Rodas and the perennial silhouette of Vigo always to their left.