Hidden Spanish islands boast beautiful beaches – but visiting isn’t easy

A stunning Spanish archipelago the Romans dubbed the “islands of the gods” boasts beautiful beaches – but visiting isn’t easy.

The Atlantic Cies Islands, made up of Monteagudo, do Faro and San Martino, are three gorgeous islands around 40 minutes from the Galician capital of Vigo by ferry.

Visitors recommend packing walking shoes or boots if you plan to take in the area’s scenic grandeur, though you should be alright with flip-flops if you’re only visiting Rodas beach – named the best in the world by The Guardian back in 2007.

You also have to savour your time there as the islands are protected as Part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, with authorities allowing only a limited number of daily visits, and no cars, The Independent reports.

Holidaymakers also won’t find the bevy of well-placed hotels and Airbnb options found at the major tourist hubs, though there is a campsite for overnight stays. 

Visitors are also advised to bring their own water as it can get extremely hot, and there is no fresh water source on the Islands for tourists.

There are a handful of places where you can buy food, though it’s much cheaper to pack your own meals, travel blogger Leticia Perez Prieto warns.

Given the celebrated natural beauty visitors are surrounded by, tourists must also collect their own rubbish to protect the park’s pristine environment.

In order to visit, you’ll also need to request a permit from the Xunta de Galicia website.

You can stay at the campsite on do Faro for between two and 15 nights. Alternatively, travellers can stay at hotels in nearby Vigo and come to see the park on a day trip. 

Vigo is known for its incredible seafront and lively atmosphere with a number of brilliant restaurants with a sea view serving up an array of Spanish classics including Pulpo a la Gallega.

Beaches include Playa del Vao, which is noted for its relaxed atmosphere with few tourists, and Praia de Sami, known for its entertainment including a rollerskating park and two swimming pools.

But be advised, Brits on their way to popular European hotspots have been warned to follow local guidance as extreme weather strikes in major holiday hubs including Spain.

Some parts of Europe are expected to see temperatures in excess of 40C, so travellers have been told to take necessary precautions to stay safe in the heat.