{"id":118813,"date":"2025-03-28T18:37:05","date_gmt":"2025-03-28T18:37:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/?p=118813"},"modified":"2025-03-28T18:37:32","modified_gmt":"2025-03-28T18:37:32","slug":"the-cies-islands-a-break-in-the-middle-of-the-portuguese-route","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/the-cies-islands-and-the-portuguese-coastal-route\/","title":{"rendered":"The C\u00edes Islands, a break in the middle of the Portuguese Route"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-118786 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Islas-Cies-Mundiplus.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Islas-Cies-Mundiplus.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Islas-Cies-Mundiplus-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Islas-Cies-Mundiplus-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Islas-Cies-Mundiplus-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Portuguese Way by the Coast<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is undoubtedly one of the most enriching pilgrimage routes to reach the Cathedral of Santiago. And here lies a true natural paradise: <\/span><b>The C\u00edes Islands<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The following lines will guide you through the history, natural attractions, and practical tips to enjoy this unique location.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These islands are presented as an oasis of tranquility, ideal for disconnecting and reconnecting with nature. Here, you will learn historical and cultural details that enrich the route, as well as practical information to plan your visit.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before we talk about the wonders of the place, as specialists in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/\"><b>Organised Camino de Santiago<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, we want to talk to you about the Portuguese Way by the Coast and give you a few reasons for choosing it. In addition to this natural wonder, it has much more to offer.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>Why choose the Portuguese Way by the Coast<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The coastal stretch of the Portuguese Way offers a unique experience by <\/span><b>combining the mysticism of the pilgrimage with the splendour of marine landscapes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Walking by the ocean, pilgrims enjoy a <\/span><b>mild climate<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, uninterrupted views of the Atlantic, and an atmosphere of serenity that enhances introspection and physical and mental well-being.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The proximity to the sea allows every step to feel like an immersion in nature, turning the journey into a space for meditation and renewal.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>Comparison with other Camino variants<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/caminos\/a-pie\/camino-sanabres\/camino-de-santiago-desde-orense\/\"><b>Camino de Santiago from Ourense<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is distinguished by its welcoming atmosphere and rural landscapes, merging Galician tradition with a rich cultural heritage at every step. In this case, you will only walk through Galician land, but entirely inland.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/caminos\/a-pie\/camino-primitivo\/camino-de-santiago-desde-lugo\/\"><b>Camino de Santiago Lugo<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a bit tougher. While the Portuguese Way by the Coast is generally flat, this option requires more physical effort.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/caminos\/a-pie\/camino-norte\/camino-de-santiago-desde-irun\/\"><b>Camino del Norte Irun Bilbao<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, especially this section, is also by the sea, but in this case, the Cantabrian Sea.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>French Way<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is the most iconic and busiest route. It offers an in-depth immersion in the history and tradition of the Camino, with monuments, charming villages, and excellent infrastructure for pilgrims.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>Discovering the C\u00edes Islands: a natural paradise<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-118792 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Playa-de-Rodas-Mundiplus.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Playa-de-Rodas-Mundiplus.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Playa-de-Rodas-Mundiplus-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Playa-de-Rodas-Mundiplus-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Playa-de-Rodas-Mundiplus-600x450.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The C\u00edes Islands are part of the <\/span><b>Atlantic Islands of Galicia Maritime-Terrestrial National Park<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Their history dates back to ancient times, when they were used as <\/span><b>refuge and place of worship<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> by ancient maritime communities. Over the centuries, their unique beauty led to their protection, establishing them as an area of exceptional <\/span><b>ecological and cultural value<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Their transformation into a national park has allowed the preservation of a unique ecosystem.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>What to see in the C\u00edes Islands<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-118798 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Faro-de-Porta-Mundiplus.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Faro-de-Porta-Mundiplus.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Faro-de-Porta-Mundiplus-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Faro-de-Porta-Mundiplus-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Faro-de-Porta-Mundiplus-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The place offers a wide variety of attractions that make every visit an enriching experience:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Rodas Beach<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is undoubtedly the main attraction. Globally recognised for its <\/span><b>white sand and turquoise waters<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, it has been rated several times as <\/span><b>one of the best beaches on the planet<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Its semicircular shape and its untouched natural surroundings make it the perfect setting to relax and contemplate the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additionally, the serenity of its waters invites long walks and activities like snorkelling in safe areas. You can also visit the <\/span><b>Our Lady Beaches, Conchas<\/b> <b>or Figueiras Beaches<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Snorkelling is possible at any of these beaches.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>diversity of trails<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that cross the islands allows you to discover lesser-known corners and enjoy spectacular panoramic views. The trails are well signposted and lead to viewpoints and lighthouses from which you can enjoy beautiful sunsets, cliffs, small coves, and the vastness of the sea.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The protection of the C\u00edes has allowed a <\/span><b>notable biodiversity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to flourish: <\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>native vegetation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> blends with introduced species that have adapted to the maritime climate. It is not abundant, but you will find some endemic species. We warn you that the most common are pines and eucalyptus trees.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>wildlife<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, composed of seabirds, small mammals, and a rich variety of invertebrates, is an additional attraction for nature observers. Among the birds, species such as the <\/span><b>kestrel<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>various gulls<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> stand out, offering a natural spectacle worthy of admiration.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to its natural beauty, the islands are steeped in <\/span><b>legends and traditions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Some interpretive routes tell ancient stories, sailors&#8217; legends, and accounts that link the environment with historical episodes relevant to the region.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>How to get to the C\u00edes Islands<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Getting to the C\u00edes Islands is relatively simple, although it requires some planning. The most common access is <\/span><b>by boat<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The ports of <\/span><b>Vigo<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>Cangas<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are the main departure points for daily excursions. From these locations, ferry or speedboat trips are organised that, in <\/span><b>approximately 30-45 minutes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, transport you to this natural paradise.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Each season, especially during the summer months, the demand for places increases, so it is advisable to <\/span><b>book in advance<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The communication between the ports and the islands is well-coordinated, and there are fixed schedules that allow visitors to plan their day, considering both arrival and return.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>Tips for planning your visit<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Advance booking<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Since the influx of visitors increases considerably in the summer, it is essential to book the ferry ticket in advance to secure your spot. The round-trip costs around <\/span><b>22 euros<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Schedules and duration<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Make sure to check the departure and return times. Typically, excursions are organised with a duration of approximately 5 to 7 hours, allowing you to enjoy the place without rushing.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Equipment<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Wear comfortable shoes for walking, sunscreen, water, and some food. While there are dining areas, it is recommended to have basic provisions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Conservation rules<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Remember that the islands are part of a national park, so the conservation rules must be respected. It is forbidden to leave trash, and you must respect the marked areas to preserve the native flora and fauna.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are <\/span><b>bars and restaurants<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Although it is a natural space, there are some hospitality establishments, should you want a more comfortable experience.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Portuguese Way by the Coast is undoubtedly one of the most enriching pilgrimage routes to reach the Cathedral of Santiago. And here lies a true natural paradise: The C\u00edes Islands. The following lines will guide you through the history, natural attractions, and practical tips to enjoy this unique location. These islands are presented as [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":118787,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[541,536,534],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-118813","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-sitios-iconicos-en","category-camino-a-pie-en","category-blog"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/118813","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=118813"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/118813\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/118787"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=118813"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=118813"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=118813"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}