The physical environment

Summits once linked to coastal mountains and now isolated by coastal flooding, make up a chain of islands that protect the estuaries.

The relief in the outer archipelagos of Cíes, Ons and Salvora is characterized by the presence of two differentiated areas. A western side, exposed to the onslaught of the open sea and its rocky coast, and an eastern side, facing the sheltered environment of the estuaries, which facilitates the formation of sandbanks and dunes on this side of the islands. Strong salt laden sea winds, nutrient poor soil conditions and relative lack of rainfall characterise the natural conditions on these islands.

Cortegada, sheltered within the Ría, has a less saline environment and a coast where sand and rocks alternate. It is an island with a flat relief and well-developed soils that sustain its woodland cover.

Proximity to the continent, a distinctive relief, and the sea as a permanent scenic background make up the unique landscapes of this Park.

See more information about the physical environment of the National Park by clicking here.