Cíes Lighthouse (Faro do Monte Faro)
A Galician paradise with stunning beaches and a rewarding lighthouse hike, offering breathtaking Atlantic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Cíes Lighthouse (Faro do Monte Faro)
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Galician paradise with stunning beaches and a rewarding lighthouse hike, offering breathtaking Atlantic views.
"The best viewpoint of the island! From here you are treated to some amazing views."
Bring Snacks & Water
Limited food options on the island. Pack plenty of snacks and water, but beware of seagulls!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike to the lighthouse is rewarding but requires sturdy footwear.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Faro do Monte Faro
Highest point of the island
The iconic lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the islands and mainland. A must-see for stunning vistas.
+1
Praia de Rodas
Main beach
Often cited as one of the world's most beautiful beaches, with crystal-clear waters and fine white sand. Perfect for a relaxing day.
Monte do Faro Trail
Island trails
A scenic hike leading to the lighthouse, offering incredible viewpoints and a chance to experience the island's natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ferry Tickets in Advance
Pack for All Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Snacks & Water
Limited food options on the island. Pack plenty of snacks and water, but beware of seagulls!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike to the lighthouse is rewarding but requires sturdy footwear.
Book Ferry from Vigo
Vigo is the main departure point. Book tickets in advance, especially in summer. +1
Respect Nature
Cíes Islands are a protected natural park. Take all your trash with you and stay on marked trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Snacks & Water
Limited food options on the island. Pack plenty of snacks and water, but beware of seagulls!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike to the lighthouse is rewarding but requires sturdy footwear.
Book Ferry from Vigo
Vigo is the main departure point. Book tickets in advance, especially in summer. +1
Respect Nature
Cíes Islands are a protected natural park. Take all your trash with you and stay on marked trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cíes Islands, particularly the Faro do Monte Faro and Praia de Rodas, for their breathtaking natural beauty and stunning views. The challenging yet rewarding hike to the lighthouse and the pristine beach are major highlights. Some find the seagulls a nuisance, and booking ferry tickets well in advance is crucial.
"This was the most beautiful route on the island and it was very special."
Nasim R
"The best viewpoint of the island! From here you are treated to some amazing views of the mainland, the San Martin Island and of course the North side of the Cies Islands. A busy place as you can imagine! A great place to stop and have a rest. The hike here is easy going despite having a steep ascent. Be aware of the seagulls, if you are having something to eat here!! They are well trained in snatching sandwiches and all kinds of food out your hands!"
Panayiotis Karkalas
"What wonderful place for sandwich and dates of everykind. Going there in the fog is a beautiful experience full of fun though so we are happy for everyone who lived there and ideas for Windows vista and best foods for their future future air conditioning system. Scary but very warm and nice"
Hasan Mas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is to drive or take a bus/train from Porto to Vigo (approx. 1.5-2 hours). From Vigo, you'll take a ferry to the Cíes Islands. +2
Vigo is accessible by car, bus, or train from Porto. Driving is convenient, with tolls on the A3 route.
While Vigo is the primary departure point, ferries may also operate from other coastal towns in Galicia during peak season. It's best to check schedules from Vigo.
The ferry ride from Vigo to the Cíes Islands typically takes about 40-50 minutes.
Yes, it's possible to do a day trip from Porto. You'll need an early start to catch the ferry from Vigo. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Absolutely! Ferry tickets and the mandatory authorization permit for Cíes Islands sell out very quickly, especially during summer. Book online as early as possible.
Costs include the ferry ticket and a small permit fee. Prices vary by season and ferry company, but expect to pay around €20-€30 round trip per person.
The islands are accessible when ferries are running, typically from Easter week through October. The lighthouse trail is open during daylight hours.
There isn't a direct entrance fee to the islands themselves, but you need to obtain a permit and purchase a ferry ticket, which covers access.
Yes, there is a campsite on the islands, but it also requires advance booking and permits.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Faro do Monte Faro is highly recommended for its stunning views. There are other marked trails as well, offering different perspectives of the islands.
There are a few restaurants and a campsite snack bar on the main island, but options are limited. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the trails. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, and a hat due to variable weather.
Yes, Praia de Rodas is famous for its pristine waters, perfect for swimming, though the water is quite cold even in summer.
The seagulls are known to be very bold and will try to snatch food. Be cautious when eating outdoors.
📸 📸 Photography
The area around the lighthouse itself offers incredible panoramic shots. Look for viewpoints overlooking the ocean, other islands, and the mainland.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the natural beauty.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and beaches. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant views.
Drone usage is generally restricted in protected natural areas like Cíes Islands to preserve the environment and wildlife. Check local regulations before flying.
Praia de Rodas, the smaller coves, and the rugged coastal paths offer diverse and beautiful photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Several other marked routes cater to different fitness levels, allowing you to discover hidden coves and diverse flora and fauna. The islands are a protected natural park, so expect pristine landscapes and a chance to connect with nature. 📸 Photographers
Praia de Rodas offers beautiful beach photography opportunities, while the rugged coastal paths present dramatic seascapes. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and a telephoto lens for potential wildlife sightings. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to Cíes Islands
Once in Vigo, the ferry ride itself is a pleasant experience, offering initial glimpses of the stunning coastline. The crossing usually takes around 40-50 minutes. Travelers often recommend arriving at the port with ample time before your scheduled departure to avoid any last-minute rush. The islands are part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, emphasizing the need for responsible tourism and adherence to park regulations.
Hiking to Faro do Monte Faro
Along the way, you'll pass through diverse landscapes, from pine forests to rocky outcrops, with increasingly spectacular vistas opening up as you climb. Reaching the lighthouse is a significant achievement, and the reward is immense. From this vantage point, you can see the mainland, the neighboring San Martiño Island, and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a popular spot, so expect to share the view with other visitors, but the sheer beauty of the scenery makes it worthwhile. Many visitors describe the experience as 'majestic' and 'beautiful,' making the effort of the hike entirely justified.
The Pristine Beauty of Praia de Rodas
Beyond its visual appeal, Praia de Rodas is also a hub of activity. It's a popular spot for families and sun-seekers, and its gentle slope into the sea makes it relatively safe for swimming. The backdrop of lush green hills and the iconic lighthouse adds to its picturesque charm. Many visitors find it to be the perfect place to unwind after a hike or simply soak in the breathtaking scenery.
It's a place where the raw beauty of nature is on full display, making it an unforgettable part of any visit to the Cíes Islands.
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