6 dreamy islands in Spain most people don’t know about
Sometimes we need to take a break somewhere nobody can find us. There are several hidden islands in Spain that you might have not heard about. These spots are perfect for a relaxing day. Some of them provide their own official transportation to get to them, but others can only be reached if you use your own boat or, otherwise, a canoe.
Down below, we show you some secret islands in Spain that will make you feel as Robinson Crusoe:
Tambo island. | Shutterstock
Tambo island is one of the most particular hidden islands in Spain. It is located in the Pontevedra river and it actually belongs to Concello de Poio, even though its access is managed by the Spanish Naval Military Academy because of its military origin. It is a pyramidal-shaped island, surrounded by trees, especially by eucalyptus. Tambo’s past is full of stories: originally, it was inhabited by Benedictine monks and attacked by pirates; later on, it became a prison, and after that, it was home to a leper hospital.
After the arrival of the Spanish Naval Military Academy in 1943, the island became an arsenal and a gunpowder store. During the 50s, there was even an attempt to build a landing track for military planes. In the island you can find two beaches: Area da Illa beach, where there’s a picnic area that belonged to the Army; and Andreirá beach, where Protestants were baptised at night in the late 19th century.
La Barrosa beach, Sancti Petri. | Shutterstock
This island is the equivalent to quality tourism in Cádiz. The village of Sancti Petri belongs to Chiclana, but the island itself belongs to San Fernando. You can easily get there by boat and you will find a relaxing large beach. In the island, you will also find a castle from the 16th century (the tower) and 17th century (the rest of the building) built in order to defend the area from pirates. This is one of the best hidden islands in Spain.
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Centinela island. | Wikimedia
An island in Ávila? That is right! Among the hidden islands in Spain, this is our favourite one. It is located in El Burguillo reservoir, and it is actually for sale! For a reasonable price of € 3,500,000, you can buy the island and its castle. While you collect the money, you can visit it and spend a great evening. You can have dinner in the castle; moreover, weddings are also organized in here. A perfect idea to surprise your partner!
Isla de Lobos. | Shutterstock
Isla de Lobos, declared a Natural Park, is just 15 minutes from the north of Fuerteventura by boat. Among the hidden islands in Spain, this is by far the most peaceful one, with clear waters and amazing volcanic landscapes. Its name comes from the sea lions or monk seals which lived at the shores until recently. It is 4.5 square metres long and 127 metres high… and there is no road in here! A great spot for snorkeling or hiking lovers.
San Simón island. | Shutterstock
A bridge links San Simón to San Antón island, separated by 84 metres of length and 250 metres of width. Both islands belong to Redondela. San Simón is a little piece of land over the Vigo river that has been repurposed a lot during its history. In the beginning, it was a monastery, then a leper hospital, and after that, a prison and finally an orphanage. In 1999, it was declared Heritage of Cultural Interest with the category of historic place. The objective was to protect the island from neglect.
Nowadays, you can visit the archipelago for free for two hours in groups of 300 or 400 people who go in catamaran from the Cesantes or Chapela piers. You will not be able to keep the secret for long!
La Graciosa island. | Shutterstock
Near Lanzarote is the island of La Graciosa. With access by sea and the possibility to stay overnight there, it had to be on this list. Due to its characteristics, it is best to book your accommodation well in advance. It is part of the archipelago of Chinijo, a marine reserve. This natural character is predominant in La Graciosa, despite the fact that it has two urban centers. The rest of the territory is dependent on State Heritage. Whether you choose to explore the place by yourself or by taking a tour, remember that the priority is to preserve its current state of conservation.
