The province of Castellón, in the Autonomous Community of Valencia, is one of those places that will amaze you with its diversity and authenticity. The Columbretes Islands are one of the treasures hidden in this territory.
Castellón: a year-round destination
Lapped by the waters of the Mediterranean and surrounded by mountains and natural parks, Castellón is ideal for anyone wishing to switch off from the hectic pace of city life and reconnect with nature, culture and the tranquillity of the sea. Its mild climate all year round, its charming towns along the coast and inland, its pristine beaches and its delicious cuisine make this province a perfect location to enjoy, whatever the season.
Nature, culture and coast: something for all tastes
Castellón has something to suit all tastes: from walks in the Desert of Palms Natural Park or the Sierra de Espadán, to cultural trips to places such as the castle in Peñíscola, the walled city of Morella or the old town in the provincial capital. And for sea lovers, the hidden coves, water sports and marine landscapes invite you to explore a Mediterranean that remains untouched in many spots.
A hidden gem in the Mediterranean
Right in the Mediterranean, just a few dozen kilometres off the coast of Castellón, you can still find natural paradises that not many people know about, with a stunning wealth of flora and fauna. One of the finest examples is the archipelago of the Columbretes Islands, a magical place where nature takes its course with hardly any human intervention.
The Columbretes Islands: their volcanic origin and biodiversity
The Columbretes Islands are a group of small islets of volcanic origin, lying around 50km off the coast of Castellón. Designated a Natural Reserve and Marine Reserve, these islands are an important sanctuary for biodiversity. Their isolation has allowed a unique ecosystem to survive both on land and underwater. The largest island, Illa Grossa, is the only one you can visit, with permission and accompanied by expert guides, ensuring the preservation of this very fragile environment.
What to do on the Columbretes Islands
One of the most authentic experiences to be enjoyed on the Columbretes is a boat trip from the harbour at Castellón, Oropesa or Alcossebre. You can enjoy being at sea and the spectacular views as you approach the islands. Once there, taking a guided tour of the Illa Grossa is a must: you can stroll along its volcanic paths, spotting birds such as Eleonora’s falcon or discover the history of the lighthouse that still dominates the island. For those keen on diving and snorkelling, the crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands offer an unforgettable underwater spectacle, with lava sea beds, seagrass meadows and a wide variety of marine species.
Useful tips for your visit
The best time to visit the Columbretes Islands is between the months of May and October, when the climate is more stable and sailing conditions are at their best. Staying overnight on the islands is not permitted, as they are protected, and they have no restaurants or accommodation facilities. So it’s essential to plan your trip well, using one of the authorised companies that run day trips from the mainland. These tend to include a boat trip, the guided tour and, in some cases, time to go for a swim or do some snorkelling.
For the more adventurous or sea lovers, there are also special trips for certified divers who want to explore the rich sea life in this unique spot. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in high season.
Come and discover the essence
The Columbretes Islands are much more than your usual destination; they’re an experience that connects you with the pure essence of the Mediterranean. Come and discover this natural paradise, where time stands still and nature has its own voice. Because sometimes, the real gems are hidden in plain sight, floating in the endless blue of the sea.
