The Ons Island (Galician: Illa de Ons; Spanish: Isla de Ons) is part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia Maritime-Terrestrial National Park. Situated in the Pontevedra estuary, it is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, rich gastronomy, and cultural significance.[1] Ons belongs administratively to the municipality of Bueu, which has a regular ferry boat connection to the island.[2]
The Ons island features a mostly flat terrain, with several plateaus covered in heath and gorse. Its highest point, Alto do Cucorno, reaches 128 meters above sea level and is located near the lighthouse, approximately 4 km from the mainland.[3] The contrasting coastlines define the island’s geography: the eastern side, facing the estuary, is relatively low and straight, home to sandy beaches and the island’s main settlements. In contrast, the western side, exposed to the Atlantic Ocean, is rugged and steep, with dramatic cliffs and sea caves known as "furnas," such as Buraco do Inferno carved by the relentless force of the ocean. Two large coves, Bastián de Val in the north and Canibeliñas in the south, serve as natural divisions between these two coastal landscapes. [4]
Population
Historically, Ons had a dense population, with settlements concentrated along the island’s more sheltered eastern coast. In 2022, the population was 11,978,[5] and the island consists of nine villages, all statistically grouped under a single entity, Ons:
O Curro: The most populated village and the island’s main hub, featuring the port, restaurants, bars, a shop, and a church.[6]
O Caño: An extension of O Curro, located along the road leading to the lighthouse.[7]
O Cucorno: The largest and highest village, situated on the hillside near the lighthouse.
O Laverco: Another elevated settlement, adjacent to O Cucorno.
O Centolo (Sentulo): The northernmost village, with five houses in a high-altitude area.
Melide: A small village with three houses, near O Centolo on the way to the lighthouse.[8]
A Chan da Pólvora: Home to about six houses, slightly off the main road to the lighthouse. The island’s campsite is located here.
Canexol: A coastal village in the southern part of the island, near the cemetery.
Pereiró: One of the largest and southernmost settlements, situated in one of Ons’ most fertile areas.[9]
Today, Ons has a seasonal population, with only a few permanent residents. However, in spring and summer, former islanders return to their homes, joined by hundreds of visitors and campers, pushing the population beyond 500 during peak season.[10]
Tourism
Ons offers visitors a unique experience in a protected natural environment. Key attractions include its beaches, the Ons Lighthouse—one of the most powerful in Spain—the Burato do Inferno chasm, and the viewpoints of Fedorento and O Centolo, among others.[11]
There are no hotels on the Island of Ons due to its protected status. However, visitors can stay at campsites or in smaller accommodations such as guesthouses or rural homes. The most popular option is Camping Illa de Ons, which offers camping, glamping, and amenities like a cafeteria, laundry services, and other camping facilities.[12]
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The docks next to O Curro, the most important settlement of Ons.
