Pretty islands 2 hours from UK that are 'Caribbean of Europe' - not Canaries or Balearics
One of the most visited places in Galicia and with a cap on tourists means a relaxing Caribbean getaway without the hefty price tag.
Overtourism in regions including the Balearics, Barcelona and the Canaries has put a dampener on many people’s travel plans.
A visit to the Caribbean to get away from this may not be feasible for many who are looking to escape the colder climate in the UK.
Fortunately, an inexpensive getaway is made easy with these Spanish islands dubbed the Caribbean of Europe.
Best of all, these Spanish islands have placed a limit on visitors ensuring tourists feel special while savouring in the many delights.
These limitations ensure the region does not suffer from overcrowding all while protecting the national park’s stunning wildlife and environment.
The Cíes Islands are an island chain off the coast of Pontevedra in Galicia, Spain.
Nestled in the mouth of the Ria de Vigo, you will find this little paradise which is made up of three islands.
Do Faro, known as Lighthouse Island, Monteagudo, known as Sharp Mount, and San Martiño, otherwise known as Saint Martin.
Breathtaking beauty is synonymous in the region as The Cíes Islands were declared a Natural Park in 1980.
They were also included in the National Park of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia in 2002.
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Unspoiled beaches with powdery white sand and a deep-blue ocean have called for a number of comparisons to the Caribbean.
And with The Guardian awarding the islands as “The Best Beach in the World” it certainly deserves a spot on your next European travel agenda.
But this little gem comes with an added benefit as since 2017 the region has placed a daily cap on visitor numbers.
From May 15 to September 15, roughly 1,800 tourists embark on these islands each day but after the cap drops to 450 daily.
Director of Galicia’s Atlantic Islands national park, José Antonio Fernández Bouzas said: “There were just too many people before. But now people understand the need for the cap and they respect and appreciate it.
“We need the access controls to protect the area, but they also mean that people can enjoy their visits.”
Another added twist to these magical islands is that there are no vehicles or pets permitted with an official ferry being the only way to get there.
But once there, must-see attractions include visiting Vigo, Playa de Rodas, Rias Baixas and Ruta Del Monte Faro with the region's mouth-watering dishes on offer including Galician octopus in stews, Galician meat, seafood and an array of cheeses.
