The Medes Islands

The Medes Islands are an archipelago made up of seven islets: Medallot, Meda Gran, Meda Xica, Ferranelles, Tascó Gros, Tascó Petit, and Carall Bernat. Situated less than a kilometre from the beach, these islands form a submerged paradise and serve as an important refuge for birds.

The entire complex is part of the Integral Natural Reserve of the Montgrí Natural Park, the Medes Islands, and the Baix Ter. As a protected space, access to the islands is restricted, and visitors can only disembark or board with permission.

The seabed around the islands is also protected and is considered one of the best diving spots in the Mediterranean, attracting divers from all over the world.

On Meda Gran, the lighthouse stands as a beacon to prevent ships from crashing into the islands at night. This is the only lighthouse in Catalonia located on an island. Between 1868 and 1982, lighthouse keepers and their families lived there, maintaining the lighthouse and ensuring the safety of maritime navigation.

The Medes Islands are home to a wide variety of bird species. Many breeding birds make the islets their home, including herring gulls, cormorants, white terns, nightingales, bullfrogs, and the rare storm petrel, contributing to the islands’ status as a vital biodiversity hotspot.

The Medes Islands remain a symbol of natural beauty, ecological importance, and a haven for wildlife in the heart of the Mediterranean.