National Parks in Galicia

Galicia is home to one national park, the Marítimo-Terrestre de las Islas Atlánticas de Galicia. This page also includes information on the nearby Peneda-Gerês National Park, located just across the border in Portugal, due to its proximity and similar outdoor opportunities.

The Marítimo-Terrestre De Las Islas Atlánticas De Galicia is a maritime-terrestrial national park in Spain. It comprises four archipelagos in the Rías Baixas: Cíes, Ons, Sálvora, and Cortegada. The park protects a unique coastal and marine ecosystem of cliffs, beaches, dune systems, and forests.

The primary activities in the national parks in and around Galicia are hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. The Marítimo-Terrestre De Las Islas Atlánticas De Galicia offers more than 35 hiking trails and over 20 mountain bike routes. Water-based activities like kayaking and snorkeling are also possible in the park's marine areas.

The Atlantic Islands National Park is made up of four main archipelagos. These are the Cíes Islands, the Ons Archipelago, Sálvora Island, and Cortegada Island. Each offers distinct landscapes and trail networks for exploration.

Yes, the Cíes Islands feature several well-marked hiking trails. Routes lead to lighthouses and viewpoints, such as the Alto do Príncipe, offering panoramic views of the estuary and ocean. These trails vary in difficulty, providing options for different fitness levels.

The terrain varies across the park's islands. The Cíes and Ons archipelagos feature rugged cliffs on their Atlantic-facing sides and sheltered beaches on the interior. Cortegada Island is known for its large, dense laurel forest, while Sálvora is characterized by a gentler relief with large granite boulders.

Yes, there are routes suitable for families and beginners. The Atlantic Islands National Park has several designated trails with moderate difficulty and length. For more options throughout the region, there is a dedicated guide to Family-friendly hikes in Galicia.

Both road cycling and mountain biking are popular. The Peneda-Gerês National Park offers over 15 mountain bike trails and more than 15 road cycling routes. The islands of the Marítimo-Terrestre De Las Islas Atlánticas De Galicia also have designated paths for cycling.

The park is accessible year-round, but visitor access, especially to the Cíes and Ons islands, is highest during the summer months and Easter week. The shoulder seasons of late spring and early autumn offer pleasant conditions with fewer crowds. Ferry services are more frequent during peak season.

Access to the Cíes, Ons, Sálvora, and Cortegada islands is primarily by authorized public ferry services departing from various ports in the Rías Baixas. During peak season, it is necessary to obtain an access permit from the park authority before purchasing a ferry ticket. Some islands, like Sálvora and Cortegada, may also be visited via guided boat trips.

No, pets are generally not permitted within the Atlantic Islands National Park to protect the local wildlife and ecosystems. The only exception is for certified assistance dogs, which may be allowed under specific conditions.