Smiles and expressions of wonder appear on the faces of visitors as soon as they reach port. The bustle that fills the ship during the crossing gives way to a hushed silence punctuated by murmurs as soon as the first feet touch the islands.

People stroll along the boardwalk, feeling its pulse, and only when they see Rodas beach do they realize that crossing the estuary was absolutely right. The sound of the seagulls, the blue of the sea, the rustling of the trees, and the scent of salt air seep into their skin and will stay with them all day, accompanying them on their journey as they visit the hidden beach of Nosa Señora, climb to the Cíes Lighthouse, or watch the sunset surrounded by applause from Alto del Príncipe.

The Cíes Islands are pure magic, no matter which corner you explore or how you choose to experience them. Some prefer to spend the afternoon snorkeling in the waters off Playa de los Alemanes, others opt for a walk to enjoy the panoramic views from the highest point, and the most inquisitive set out to discover the islands' hidden secrets. Everything about them is imbued with a special essence.

They are a paradise, a natural paradise in which to enjoy spectacular postcard views, lush corners and paths surrounded by chestnut, oak or eucalyptus trees and their special fauna, as you can see sole or turbot in their waters or a wide variety of birds such as the yellow-legged gull or the European shag flying over your head.

And we absolutely love them. We spend all year gazing at them from the horizon, their majestic presence closing off the estuary, and as soon as the season to visit them arrives, we can't wait to have a day or two free to enjoy them. And you, haven't you seen them yet? What are you waiting for?

Sign our petition on Change.org if you think these spectacular and magical islands deserve to be declared a World Heritage Site.

And if you have a business, join our #FriendsofCíes initiative; you can find all the information at this link: Friends of the Cíes Islands.

Photographs by Luz Lux