Discover the Island of San Simón with a guided tour

Have you ever wondered what secrets are hidden on the Island of San Simón? This small but fascinating island, situated in the Ría de Vigo estuary, is a gem worth discovering. With a rich history and breathtaking natural beauty, the Island of San Simón is the perfect destination for those looking for a unique experience. 

The best way of discovering the island is via a guided tour that we offer at our ferry company, Mar de Ons. On this tour, you can discover all the secrets hidden by this mysterious island and the different ways it has been used throughout history. After the gardens were landscaped and its buildings restored, the island, known as the Island of Thought (Isla del Pensamiento), continues to be a place of great beauty that offers a unique panoramic view of the Ria de Vigo estuary, with the Cíes Islands as a backdrop and Rande bridge as an unmistakable symbol of the landscape.

Declared an Asset of Cultural Interest (BIC in Spanish), Special Protection Area for Natural Values ​​(ZEPVN) and integrated within the Natura 2000 Network, it is a fairytale island, surrounded by stories and legends. In this article, we tell you everything you need to know so you can enjoy a guided tour with our expert guides. Book your place on and, if you are coming as a group, write to . From this department, we offer you lower prices, depending on the size of the group and the date chosen.

The Island of San Simón has a history that dates back centuries. In the beginning, it was once a spiritual retreat for monks but, over time, it has gone through various stages and uses:

Although it was inhabited from Prehistoric times until the Roman occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, it was the Templar Knights that put it back on the map, with the foundation of a monastery in the 12th century, which was later passed on to the Order of the Franciscans. Centuries later, the Island of San Simón fell into the hands of Isabella I of Castille. This place was then turned into a spiritual retreat and knowledge centre. The calmness and seclusion of the island made it perfect for monastic life.

Famous corsair Francis Drake looted the Island of San Simón at the end of the 16th century. This was one of the Ria de Vigo estuary’s most prominent historical events. The inlet of this island was the scene of the Naval Battle of Rande, a story of treasures hidden under its waters that marked the history of this fantastic place.

Later, the island fell into oblivion until it became a ‘lazareto’ or quarantine station and centre, from 1842 until 1927. It was an isolated area, away from the general population, where it was possible for people to spend periods of 40 days in times of contagious diseases such as leprosy and cholera. Later, in the 20th century, it was turned into a prison for prisoners of the Spanish Civil War. These dark times have left an indelible mark on the island.

Years later, in 1955, it was turned into “Hogar Méndez Núñez”, a boy’s orphanage for orphans of sailors or poor families.

In its latest stage in living memory, the island was adapted and has become a protected area, with the landscaping of gardens and trees. It is now also home to a cultural centre with auditorium and library. Nowadays, it has positioned itself as a space that promotes culture, with the aim of attracting thinkers of international relevance and a place to hold science and research conferences and seminars, camps or concerts, such as the famous Sinsal Festival , among others. Additionally, guided tours are organised to enable tourists to discover the in-depth history of the Island of San Simón.

In addition to being an island bursting with history and fascinating events, the Island of San Simón is also a natural paradise. It is surrounded by the blue waters of the Ria de Vigo estuary and a diverse flora and fauna.

The paths that cross the island will enable you to discover, alongside our experts, hundred-year-old trees and birds that nest in this protected corner of the estuary. The panoramic views offered from different parts of the island are simply spectacular.

Our guided tours are the best way to make the most of your trip to the Island of San Simón. Here we explain why:

Our guides are experts in the history and nature of the Island of San Simón and they demonstrate this on each trip. They will help you to discover details and anecdotes that would otherwise go unnoticed. You will learn about the lives of the monks, the Battle of Rande, the stories of the prisoners and the island’s natural secrets.

The guided tours are planned meticulously so you can enjoy the island worry free. From transport by boat to walks along the hiking paths, everything is designed for your comfort and safety. You can

As a ferry company, we have years of experience in offering guided tours around the different destinations in the Rías Baixas (Cíes Islands, Island of Ons, Island of Tambo and Island of San Simón). Our team of professionals will ensure your trip is both educational and enjoyable, while being fully committed at all times to the destinations and the preservation of their natural and cultural settings.

We recommend you book in advance, particularly during the high season. The departure ports for these tours are Vigo and Cangas, and trips are offered at weekends during the high season. However, tours are more limited in winter months, so you should check the available dates on

To fully enjoy your trip, we suggest you wear comfortable clothing and footwear, sun protection and take a bottle of water, as well as a snack. You should also bear in mind that you should bring any litter back with you. Don’t forget your camera to capture the most special moments!

The adventure will begin with a boat trip from the port of Vigo or Cangas to the island. During the journey, you will be able to enjoy the impressive views of the Ria de Vigo estuary and perhaps spot some dolphins.

When we reach the island, the guide will take you on a tour of the most important points. You will visit the ancient monastery, the quarantine station and prison and learn about the history of each of these places. After the guided tour, you will have some free time to explore the island by yourself, take photos, or simply relax and enjoy the landscape.

Visiting the Island of San Simón is a unique experience that combines history, nature and adventure. With our Mar de Ons Ferry Company, you will be able to uncover all the secrets of this fascinating island in the best way possible. Don’t hesitate any longer and plan your guided tour so you can enjoy an unforgettable day out.